The YMCA of Central & Northern Westchester has announced a planned leadership transition as President and CEO Cynthia Delfino Birdsall prepares to retire on December 31, 2026, following more than 12 years of transformational leadership.
The YMCA’s Board of Governors has selected Bonnie Fogarty, a 25-year YMCA leader, to succeed Cindy as President and CEO beginning in January 2027.
Since joining the YMCA in 2014, Cindy has helped fundamentally reshape the organization. Under her leadership, the YMCA moved beyond its traditional facility-based model to create a “Y Without Walls,” bringing programs directly into schools and communities throughout Westchester and Putnam counties.
During that time, the YMCA expanded early childhood education, school-age child care and youth development programs; navigated the COVID-19 pandemic; rebuilt Camp Combe following the devastating 2023 storm; and completed the sale and redevelopment of its former White Plains facility.
Bonnie has worked alongside Cindy throughout much of this transformation and has held increasingly significant leadership responsibilities during her 25 years with the YMCA.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have built together,” Cindy said. “I know the Y is ready for its next chapter, and I have tremendous confidence in Bonnie to lead it forward.”
Bonnie shared, “Cindy’s leadership transformed this YMCA and challenged all of us to think differently about how we serve our communities. I am honored to build on that foundation and lead this organization forward with our extraordinary staff, Board and community partners.”
Cindy will continue serving as President and CEO through the end of December, working closely with Bonnie to ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition.
The transition comes as the YMCA enters its next strategic chapter, Y 3.0, focused on community impact, strong programs and operations, resource development and long-term sustainability.
We invite our YMCA community to join us in thanking Cindy for her extraordinary leadership and congratulating Bonnie as we prepare together for this exciting next chapter.