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From NorwalkPlus.com Moving On
Armijo joined the board just last month because she believes in the Association and wants to do everything she can to ensure that it continues to serve this community for another 80 years. One of her first initiatives was to work with other board members on development of the recently launched Corporate Giving Campaign. “The YMCA is a cornerstone of the Norwalk community and we needed to drive the growth and development of the organization,” she says, noting that the increase in childcare enrollments, camp registrations and memberships, coupled with the $350,000 capital bond grant, had strengthened the Association’s financial picture and presented the YMCA with the opportunity to build on that momentum. At the same time, “the board was working actively to secure an experienced executive to step in at the helm of the YMCA of Norwalk,” according to board president Glen LeBlanc. Demonstrating her commitment to the Y mission, “Cindy expressed an interest in the CEO position and her desire to make a substantive contribution to the Association beyond her role as a volunteer. “When Cindy interviewed with the search committee, we were immediately impressed by her strong background in investment and finance,” he continues. “Cindy spent 11 years with Standard & Poor’s. She also worked at Wit Soundview Investment Bank, Franklin Templeton Investments and, most recently, BTS – a boutique consulting firm based in Stamford.” For the last four years Armijo has served as a Senior Account Manager and worked with the management teams at Fortune 100 firms to implement strategies that improve operations and drive shareholder value. She has a bottom-line focus plus extensive knowledge of the non-profit sector as a result of her board positions as treasurer and chair of numerous non-profits over a 20-year period. “Cindy has led development of strategic programs that have produced significant positive results in the financial position of public and private businesses and non-profit organizations. She has provided guidance and counseling on the subjects of leadership, financial focus and personal balance for non-profit groups,” notes LeBlanc. “Even with the strong candidate pool we had for this position, we recognized that the YMCA of Norwalk would be well-served by her credentials, capabilities and range of experience.” Armijo is excited to lead an organization that has a robust 80-year history in Norwalk. “Serving the Norwalk community is a guiding principle of the YMCA and the full range of people in this city – neighbors and businessmen, old and young, various cultures and religions – is represented by our members and guests.” Having spent most of her professional life working to drive profits, control operations and create value in the for-profit sector, Armijo says “it will be a privilege to apply my knowledge and skills on behalf of the YMCA of Norwalk. As CEO, my priorities are building our relationships in the community, growing our membership and enhancing our position as a trusted choice for children, teens, seniors and adults.” The YMCA of Norwalk has set an ambitious agenda for accomplishment of the goals identified in its strategic plan. Stepping down as a board member last evening, Armijo is in the office today – already engaged in advancing this new direction for the YMCA of Norwalk. “I am focused on ensuring the financial viability of this Association. And I will be working with the exceptionally talented and dedicated individuals who staff this YMCA and volunteer on its boards to continue providing the programs and services that build strong kids, strong families and strong communities.” About the YMCA of Norwalk The YMCA of Norwalk is an affiliate of the YMCA of the USA and a partner agency of the United Way of Norwalk and Wilton. Its mission is to build strong kids, strong families and strong communities. Celebrating 80 years of serving the community, the YMCA of Norwalk is governed by two boards comprised of 39 community volunteers. For additional information about the organization and programs, visit www.norwalkymca.org. © Copyright by NorwalkPlus.com |
