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The YMCA of Reading & Berks County proudly hosted its 166th Annual Meeting at the Reading YMCA, bringing together board members and staff to celebrate leadership, dedication, and outstanding service. The event marked the induction of new board members, honored staff milestone anniversaries, and recognized the winners of the 2nd Annual CEO Choice Awards.
2024 Board Chairman Troy Rider and 2025 Board Chairman James Michalak
Newly elected board members pictured with CEO Phillip Borup: Daniel Laws, Crystal Gilmore-Harris, James Michalak
Welcoming New Leadership
The YMCA of Reading & Berks County is excited to announce the appointment of new officers who will help guide the organization into the future:
- Association Board Chairman: James Michalak, Partner, Chief Operating Officer, Herbein + Company
- Vice Chairman: Michael Trymbiski, Regional Account Manager, UGI Energy Services
- Treasurer: Robert Ippolito, retired
- Secretary: Troy Rider, Esq., Partner, Barley Snyder LLC, (previously served as Board Chairman)
Additionally, the YMCA welcomed newly elected board members:
- Crystal Gilmore-Harris, Community Outreach Coordinator, Senator Judith L. Schwank’s Office
- Daniel Laws, President/CEO, DaBrian Marketing Group
- Carl Sottosanti, Esq., retired and rejoining the board
With these new appointments, the YMCA will continue to further its commitment to strengthening its mission, expanding its reach, and continuing its impactful work in the community. Together, the board and staff will move forward with honesty, respect, and a caring spirit, committed to fostering a community that thrives on the YMCA values.
Honoring Excellence: CEO Choice Awards
At the Annual Meeting, the YMCA recognized the winners of the 2nd Annual CEO Choice Awards, honoring employees who exemplify dedication and a commitment to the Y’s mission. Each honoree received an award symbolizing their uniqueness that helps build the synergy of the team’s DNA and their dedication to excellence in all they do to make an impact in the communities we serve.
This year’s recipients include:
- Mary Halstead, Certified Recovery Specialist
- Bruce Nixon, Maintenance Professional, Reading YMCA
- Amy Lerario, Fitness Coordinator
- Jenn Wilmer, Welcome Center Representative, Tri Valley YMCA
- Jonathan Johnson, Program Director/Branch Manager, Mifflin and Adamstown YMCAs
- Amber Fox, Digital Media Engagement Director
- Chrissy Faller, Vice President of Marketing and Communications
- Gena Pina Garcia, Executive Director of Social Services (two-time recipient)
- Angie Harrison, Executive Director of Member Engagement and Reading YMCA Center Manager
2024 CEO Choice Awards honorees pictured with CEO Phillip Borup: Jonathan Johnson, Amy Lerario, Mary Halstead, Jenn Wilmer, Gena Pina Garcia, Chrissy Faller, and Angie Harrison; Not pictured: Amber Fox and Bruce Nixon
“These individuals exemplify the YMCA’s core values and drive our mission forward through their unwavering commitment, leadership qualities, and inspiration they provide throughout the organization and the broader community.”
Recognizing Dedicated Staff Milestones
The YMCA also took the opportunity to honor its dedicated staff members who have reached significant milestone anniversaries in their years of service. These individuals have made invaluable contributions to the Y community:
5 Years
- Jill Demi, Group Supervisor, Young Toddler classroom, Tri Valley YMCA Richmond Early Learning Center
- Stephanie Labissiere, Lead Teacher, Pre-K Counts program, Reading YMCA Early Learning Center
- Nyree Fernandez, Child Care Director, Tri Valley YMCA Richmond Early Learning Center
- Siri Nieves, Parent Educator, Parenting Pathways program
- Sonia Davila, Reading YMCA Housekeeping team member
10 Years
- Lisa Getz, Welcome Center Representative, Adamstown YMCA
- Renee Seisler, Group Exercise Instructor, Sinking Spring YMCA
- Jordon Valentine, Assistant Group Supervisor, Pre-K Counts program, Reading YMCA Early Learning Center
15 Years
- Shelley Eppihimer, Vice President of Youth Development
20 Years
- Nelson Lopez-Soto, YMCA maintenance team member
“Our staff are our greatest asset, We are so grateful to have them run and support our programs. They’re invested in doing more than their jobs. They create meaning, build connections, and improve the quality of life for the individuals and families in Berks. At the YMCA, we foster a culture of professional and personal growth, ensuring that our staff feel valued and empowered.”
Looking Forward
As the YMCA of Reading & Berks County continues to grow, the organization remains dedicated to strengthening communities, developing leadership, and fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. The Y extends its gratitude to all board members, staff, and community partners who support its mission.
For more information about the YMCA of Reading & Berks County and its initiatives, visit www.YMCArbc.org or follow us on social media.
