Ymca Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Ymca has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, operations, and administration.

Driven by a commitment to community enrichment, Ymca strengthens communities by fostering relationships and providing opportunities for personal growth, offering programs in youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.

Leadership Roles at Ymca

  • Chief Executive Officer - Cameron Nicholson
  • Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer - Arlen Parrish
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Ruth Comer
  • Chief Administrative Officer - Stacey Haviland
  • Cameron Nicholson - Chief Executive Officer

    Cameron Nicholson, the Chief Executive Officer at Ymca, directs the organization's overarching strategy and community impact initiatives. Overseeing all functional areas, Nicholson ensures alignment with the mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. This leadership role involves guiding the non-profit's expansion and service delivery across Iowa. By fostering strong community partnerships, Cameron Nicholson drives the organization's ability to provide accessible programs, including vital financial assistance for participation. Nicholson's strategic vision solidifies Ymca's position as a cornerstone for personal growth and community strengthening, maintaining its legacy of service for over 150 years. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on enhancing program efficacy and broadening reach to serve a diverse population.
    Cameron Nicholson

    Arlen Parrish - Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer

    Arlen Parrish, the Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer at Ymca, manages the organization's operational efficiency and financial health. Overseeing day-to-day activities and fiscal management, Parrish ensures resources are allocated effectively to support youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility programs. This dual role involves optimizing operational processes for child care, fitness, and sports activities, while also maintaining robust financial controls and reporting. By driving operational excellence, Arlen Parrish supports the Ymca's commitment to accessibility, ensuring financial assistance programs are managed responsibly. Parrish's financial acumen and operational oversight are critical to the organization's sustainability and its ability to strengthen communities. The Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer's leadership ensures the Ymca can continue to provide vital services and opportunities for personal growth.

    Ruth Comer - Chief Marketing Officer

    Ruth Comer, the Chief Marketing Officer at Ymca, architects the organization's brand presence and outreach strategies. Overseeing all communication channels, Comer ensures the Ymca's mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility resonates with the community. This leadership position involves developing targeted campaigns to highlight program offerings, from child care to fitness classes, and emphasizing the organization's commitment to accessibility through financial assistance. By crafting compelling narratives, Ruth Comer drives engagement and participation across diverse demographics. Comer's strategic marketing efforts amplify the Ymca's impact, fostering relationships and providing opportunities for personal growth throughout Iowa. The Chief Marketing Officer's work directly supports the organization's goal of strengthening communities by effectively communicating its value and services.

    Stacey Haviland - Chief Administrative Officer

    Stacey Haviland, the Chief Administrative Officer at Ymca, directs the internal operations and administrative functions that support the organization's mission. Overseeing human resources, compliance, and general administration, Haviland ensures a smooth and effective operational environment for all programs, including youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility initiatives. This critical role involves managing policies and procedures that uphold the Ymca's commitment to accessibility and community service. By streamlining administrative processes, Stacey Haviland enhances the organization's capacity to serve the community and provide opportunities for personal growth. Haviland's administrative leadership is fundamental to the Ymca's ability to operate efficiently and maintain its strong community presence. The Chief Administrative Officer's focus is on building a solid foundation for all organizational activities.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Membership Organizations

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Ymca Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Ymca?
    Ymca is led by Cameron Nicholson (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Arlen Parrish (Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer) and Ruth Comer (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Ymca’s executive team?
    The executive team of Ymca includes leaders such as Cameron Nicholson (Chief Executive Officer), Arlen Parrish (Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer), Ruth Comer (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Ymca have?
    Ymca has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Ymca’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Ymca includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief Administrative Officer.