After 25 years as a YMCA member, joining the Summit Area YMCA feels especially meaningful. In this Q&A, Diane shares her background, what she loves about fundraising, and why helping people connect to the Y’s mission feels like the perfect fit.
Welcome to the Summit Area YMCA! What drew you to this role and to the Y’s mission?
I’m thrilled to join the Summit Area YMCA as Vice President of Advancement, this has been a dream job! I’ve been a Y member for 25 years, at branches from Pennsylvania to the Bronx. At every stage of life, the Y gave me a place to belong. That sense of connection is powerful, and I’m excited to help ensure others have that same opportunity while strengthening the heart and hub of the Summit community.
Can you share a bit about your background and what do you like about fundraising?
I launched my career at the American Cancer Society, where I learned fundraising at an incredible scale. After more than a decade there, I brought that experience to smaller organizations doing important work in the autism community, including Spectrum360 and Alpine Learning Group. What I love most is helping people see where they can make a difference and creating opportunities to support their generosity.
What does philanthropy mean to you? Why is it important?
Meaningful philanthropy starts with strong relationships and a clear mission. That’s what excites me about the YMCA — those connections translate into real impact every day.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I spent more than 10 years as a very average but dedicated triathlete, with plenty of early morning training hours in a Y pool. While I don’t race anymore, I still love swimming, running, and cheering on friends. I’m also an avid reader (mostly fiction and memoir), a big podcast listener, and a fan of supporting local businesses and building community.
What does your role focus on at the Y?
I connect people to the Y’s mission by building relationships, strengthening fundraising efforts, and helping supporters see the impact of their generosity. My goal is to ensure the Y has the resources to serve everyone who wants to be part of it.
What excites you most about this work right now?
The Y’s mission to strengthen spirit, mind, and body for all is timeless, and especially relevant today.
How can people connect with you or get involved?
I’d love to meet you. Whether you’ve been part of the Y for years or are just getting to know us, I’d love to hear what the Y means to you and share more about where we’re headed. Please don’t hesitate to reach out.
