LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) \u2014 The La Crosse Area Family YMCA has selected Nikki West as its next chief executive officer, making her the first woman to lead the organization in its 143-year history.<\/p>\n
West will take over as CEO on September 8, replacing Bill Soper, who is retiring after 31 years in the role. The YMCA board of directors chose West after conducting a nationwide search, according to a press release Tuesday.<\/p>\n
West has served as the Y’s chief development officer since September 2021.<\/p>\n
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve as the next CEO of the La Crosse Area Family YMCA,” West said.<\/p>\n
West brings more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit management and philanthropy. She earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations and organizational communication from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.<\/p>\n
“Nikki brings a unique combination of experience, organizational knowledge and passion for the Y’s mission,” said Clara Gelatt, chair of the La Crosse Area Family YMCA board of directors.<\/p>\n
The La Crosse Area Family YMCA serves more than 35,000 people annually throughout the Coulee Region. West will be the Y’s 19th executive in its history.<\/p>\n
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