For the Star Journal

The YMCA of the Northwoods has a new leader. The Board of the Directors has announced the hiring of Linda May as the new CEO of the organization.

May’s YMCA experience spans more than 13 years. For nearly a decade, she served in leadership positions for the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh. Since 2019, she has served as the Regional Executive Director for the Chippewa Valley (Eau Claire) YMCA. During her time in Chippewa Falls, she led the YMCA branch through the challenges of COVID-19 and turned budget deficits into surpluses. May also led efforts to raise six-figure amounts in grants and community fundraising.

“I’m humbled and excited by my selection to lead this organization,” said May. “It’s clear the YMCA of the Northwoods is going places. It will be my privilege to join an organization with such strong community support, excellent employees, a dedicated board, and big plans for the future. I’m confident that, working together, we can accomplish our goals.”

The YMCA of the Northwoods campus is undergoing a multimillion dollar expansion that will add a new gym, outdoor pavilion, aerobics studio and community space. Plus, construction will begin soon on a new branch facility in Park Falls.

“Hiring Linda to lead the YMCA of the Northwoods is a perfect fit for our organization,” said Chief Volunteer Officer Jake Weinand. “After getting to know Linda, we’re confident she has the tools to guide us as we grow. Her longstanding experience with the Y and her ability to make connections within her community give us great confidence she’s the right person for the job.”

May’s family owns property in the Northwoods, where she spends time kayaking, hiking, snowshoeing, and other outdoor activities.

“People from the Northwoods know how spectacular it is to live here. Having the opportunity to live here myself while taking this professional position is an opportunity I don’t take lightly,” May said.

May and her husband, Chuck, have been married 26 years. Together, they have two adult children and two cats.

May replaces Ryan Zietlow, who accepted the CEO position at the Stevens Point YMCA last year.   Jake Weinand expressed the Board’s thanks and appreciation to long-time YMCA leader and Rhinelander native Fred Hauser, for his critical role as Interim CEO for the last nine months.

 May’s anticipated start date at the YMCA of the Northwoods is May 30, 2023.