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YMCA OF KANAWHA VALLEY ANNOUNCES NEW PRESIDENT AND CEO

(Charleston, W.Va. – July 14, 2020)

The YMCA of Kanawha Valley announced today that Sarah Bolyard will serve as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective August 3, 2020. Bolyard joins us from the American Heart Association where she currently serves as the West Virginia Executive Director. In her 8 years with the American Heart Association Sarah has been instrumental in leading her team to year over year revenue growth as well as increased mission
related activity throughout the Mountain State. Her strengths and successes at the American Heart Association will create an immediate impact at the YMCA.
According to YMCA officials, Bolyard’s “impressive and successful” track record of executing significant initiatives and innovative ideas make her an ideal choice to lead the YMCA of Kanawha Valley. Ric Cavender, chair of the board of directors of the YMCA of Kanawha Valley, said Bolyard has
a successful and impressive track record of executing significant initiatives and just as importantly, she epitomizes the spirit and heart of what the YMCA stands for. “She is passionate about the mission of the Y, has a servant’s heart of leadership, empowers those who work with and around her, and has built incredibly strong relationships with so many community stakeholders and partners,” Cavender said. “We are confident that Sarah will provide the strong leadership and keen vision to guide the Y forward as it continues to be one of the major cornerstones of mission and service to our community, especially during this very unprecedented and unique time in which we find ourselves. “I want to thank Will Robinson, Chairman of the YMCA of Kanawha Valley Search Committee, and the entire Committee, for leading the effort to search across the country for the next person to lead our YMCA,” Cavender added.

“Sarah’s leadership and influence will not only greatly impact the YMCA of Kanawha Valley, but she will be a partner for all Ys in West Virginia. Sarah brings such wonderful passion for service and she will be a leader for our YMCAs statewide!” said David Ozmore, Executive Director of
the YMCA Kentucky/West Virginia Alliance. Bolyard stated that she is humbled and grateful for the opportunity to lead such an outstanding
organization that has made such a meaningful impact on the Kanawha Valley for so many years. “It is my honor to accept the role as CEO of the YMCA of Kanawha Valley. The YMCA is an iconic institution here in the Kanawha Valley and my goal as CEO is to build upon a local legacy while creating an inclusive environment that builds a healthy sprirt, mind and body for all,” Bolyard said. “We will continue to enhance our focus areas of Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility while increasing our mission based community presence in the Kanawha Valley.”
Prior to her time with the American Heart Association Sarah worked in the pharmaceutical sales industry. Sarah, her husband Brian, and their young son Willie reside in Charleston where she has lived a majority of her life.