Ericia Moore became the first woman to lead the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo as president and CEO, starting today, June 1, 2026. The appointment marks a milestone for an organization that has served the Kalamazoo community for 160 years.

Moore replaces two interim leaders. Jim Migliaccio retired on May 31. Rhonda Ludwig served as interim CEO until Moore's arrival.

A Six-Month Search Ends With a Florida Hire

The YMCA board conducted a six-month nationwide search before selecting Moore, according to the organization. She arrives from the YMCA of Florida's First Coast, where she served as vice president of operations and social responsibility.

"We conducted a comprehensive nationwide search, and Ericia stood out at every stage," said Scott Nykaza, board chairman of YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, in a statement. "Her energy, clear vision, and deep commitment to fostering inclusive environments are exactly what the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo needs at this pivotal moment."

Moore brings more than 15 years of nonprofit experience to Kalamazoo. During her tenure in Florida, she grew membership retention by 6% year over year, secured afterschool programming and summer camp partnerships, and led a yearly campaign that increased philanthropic investment in an underserved community, according to WWMT News Channel 3.

A Plan to Reach Every Neighborhood

Moore's primary focus will be advancing the YMCA's "1 in 1 by 31" plan. The initiative aims to bring a YMCA program within one mile of every resident in the organization's service area by 2031, according to WWMT.

"Becoming the CEO of the Greater Kalamazoo YMCA is deeply personal for me," Moore said in a statement. "As a servant leader, I've dedicated my career to creating the kind of access and opportunity that can change a life, especially in communities that need it most."

Moore told WOOD TV 8 that she looks forward to activating the greater Kalamazoo community through local initiatives that bring YMCA programs to each neighborhood within the service area.

A Community Institution Enters a New Chapter

The YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo has operated continuously in the region since the mid-1800s. Moore's appointment follows the retirement of Migliaccio, who had led the organization before the interim period.

"Ericia has a proven track record of strategic leadership and innovative partnerships that align perfectly with our mission, and the Board is entirely confident that she is the leader who will guide us into a dynamic next chapter," Nykaza said.

For more information about the YMCA of Greater Kalamazoo, visit the organization's website.