8 Central Jersey Residents Join YMCA Board of Directors

Eight new members were recently appointed to the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County’s board of directors to help the nonprofit continue its cause to strengthen the communities it serves in Monmouth, Ocean and Middlesex counties.

“Increasing access to our Y and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to reach their potential with dignity are at the heart of all we do at the YMCA,” said Chief Volunteer Officer Michael A. Wright, who leads the board of directors. “We are pleased to welcome eight new board members to join us in fostering a welcoming space for every individual and family we serve.”

Y President and Chief Executive Officer Laurie Goganzer said the 54-member all-volunteer board sets strategic direction, raises financial support, and creates policies that guide the 36,000-member organization, which has been providing life-changing programs to area residents for 150 years.

“Accessibility and equity have never been more important to the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County as we mark our milestone 150th anniversary this year,” Goganzer said. “We remain committed to our promise that our doors are open to all, regardless of age, income, background or beliefs, and we’re grateful to work in partnership with dedicated board members who represent our communities.”

The new board members were elected at a recent board meeting to serve three-year terms. They are:

• Tracey Abby-White, a resident of Atlantic Highlands and recently retired as the global director of Enablement at Druva.

• Joe Barris, of Jackson, director of the Monmouth County Department of Planning, Transportation, and Community Services for Monmouth County, and jointly serving as the county’s planning division director. 

• Monte Edwards, Monmouth Beach, serves as senior vice president and investment officer at Center Street Capital Advisors.

• Kevin Gannon, Toms River, is chairman and chief executive officer of Stanger. He serves on the YMCA audit committee and recently served as a Y foundation board trustee.

• Aaron James, Rumson, currently heads the legal function of Tectus Corporation, a Silicon Valley startup, and is a Y alumnus.

• Chris Kelly, Spring Lake, retired as the chief information officer at Premia Holdings. He is a former trustee of the Y foundation board.

• Jane Pattwell, Rumson, is a partner at the law firm Foss, San Filippo & Milne, LLC, where she focuses on all aspects of real estate. She also served as a trustee on the Y foundation board.

• Jeremy Suarez, Colts Neck, is a managing partner at Tomoro and a former trustee of the Y foundation board.

Goganzer emphasized that each new board member brings diverse skills and perspectives that will strengthen the Y’s emphasis on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility to “strengthen people and communities.”

About YMCA of Greater Monmouth County
For 150 years, the YMCA of Greater Monmouth County has been here for all – to empower youth and teens, improve health and strengthen community. Over the past five years, our Y has provided more than $5 million in financial assistance and subsidies to Y participants throughout greater Monmouth County. Our life-changing programs and services are anchored in eight communities: health and wellness facilities in Freehold Township, Old Bridge and Red Bank; an outdoor day camp in Wall; counseling and social service centers in Eatontown, Matawan and Middletown; a childcare center in Freehold Township; and integrated in over 100 schools in Monmouth and Ocean counties. Named a New Jersey Top Workplace in 2024, 2023 and 2022 by New Jersey Advance Media, we’re based in Shrewsbury, NJ. Learn more at www.ymcanj.org.