Young Life Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Young Life has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, administration, finance, human resources, and program development.

Driven by a mission to impact young people, Young Life fosters spiritual growth and community engagement through dedicated leadership and global outreach.

Leadership Roles at Young Life

  • Chief Executive Officer - Newt Crenshaw
  • Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin - Stacy Paolella
  • Chief Financial Officer - Scott Brill
  • Chief Operating Officer - Steve Thompson
  • President - Sanders Lockman
  • President's Administrator - Blaire Smith
  • Club President - Rylee Frascht
  • Chief of Staff - Mandy Adkins
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Shelley Meador
  • Newt Crenshaw - Chief Executive Officer

    Newt Crenshaw, the Chief Executive Officer at Young Life, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the global religious organization. Crenshaw guides the executive team in executing the mission of impacting young people through spiritual development and community engagement. This leadership role involves ensuring alignment across all operational facets, from program development to financial stewardship, to foster sustained growth and outreach. Crenshaw's strategic direction ensures Young Life effectively serves its target demographic across diverse international contexts. The Chief Executive Officer's focus remains on expanding the organization's reach and deepening its impact, reinforcing the core values established since its inception. Newt Crenshaw drives the organization's commitment to its foundational principles.
    Newt Crenshaw

    Stacy Paolella - Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin

    Stacy Paolella, the Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin at Young Life, leads critical administrative functions and supports family-focused initiatives. Paolella manages executive administration, ensuring smooth operations and effective support for leadership. This multifaceted role involves overseeing key administrative processes and contributing to the organization's family engagement strategies. The Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin's focus is on enhancing organizational effectiveness and supporting the well-being of families involved with Young Life. Paolella's dedication ensures robust administrative support and strengthens family connections. Stacy Paolella drives administrative excellence and family support within Young Life.

    Scott Brill - Chief Financial Officer

    Scott Brill, the Chief Financial Officer at Young Life, directs all financial planning, management, and reporting for the global organization. Brill oversees budgeting, accounting, and financial controls to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. This leadership position involves managing investments, optimizing financial resources, and ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. The Chief Financial Officer's strategic insights are crucial for supporting Young Life's mission and expansion efforts. Brill's expertise ensures the organization maintains a strong financial foundation to support its outreach programs. Scott Brill safeguards the financial integrity of Young Life's operations.
    Scott Brill

    Steve Thompson - Chief Operating Officer

    Steve Thompson, the Chief Operating Officer at Young Life, oversees the day-to-day operational execution of the organization's global initiatives. Thompson manages the complex logistical frameworks supporting Young Life's diverse programs and outreach efforts across various regions. This involves optimizing resource allocation and ensuring efficient deployment of staff and volunteers to maximize impact. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to enhancing operational effectiveness and scalability, directly supporting the strategic objectives set forth by executive leadership. Thompson's role is critical in translating strategic vision into tangible, on-the-ground results, ensuring seamless program delivery. Steve Thompson drives operational excellence across all Young Life activities.

    Sanders Lockman - President

    Sanders Lockman, the President at Young Life, drives strategic initiatives and oversees key programmatic areas of the organization. Lockman focuses on expanding the reach and impact of Young Life's ministry, ensuring alignment with its core mission. This leadership position involves fostering relationships with stakeholders and guiding the development of new outreach opportunities. The President's role is critical in advancing the organization's goals and strengthening its global presence. Lockman's leadership ensures continued growth and effectiveness in serving young people. Sanders Lockman leads strategic program development and expansion for Young Life.

    Blaire Smith - President's Administrator

    Blaire Smith, the President's Administrator at Young Life, provides essential administrative support to the President, facilitating the execution of strategic priorities. Smith manages schedules, coordinates communications, and supports key projects to ensure operational efficiency. This role is crucial for enabling the President to focus on high-level leadership and strategic development. The President's Administrator's responsibilities include organizing meetings, preparing documentation, and maintaining effective workflow. Smith's diligent support is vital for the President's effectiveness. Blaire Smith ensures seamless administrative operations supporting the President's initiatives.

    Rylee Frascht - Club President

    Rylee Frascht, the Club President at Young Life, leads specific local club initiatives and fosters community engagement among young people. Frascht oversees the planning and execution of club activities, ensuring they align with Young Life's mission and values. This role involves mobilizing volunteers, engaging youth, and creating a welcoming environment for spiritual exploration. The Club President's focus is on building strong relationships and facilitating positive experiences for participants. Frascht's leadership directly impacts the local chapter's success and outreach efforts. Rylee Frascht drives local engagement and program delivery for Young Life clubs.

    Mandy Adkins - Chief of Staff

    Mandy Adkins, the Chief of Staff at Young Life, provides direct support to the Chief Executive Officer and facilitates strategic initiatives across the organization. Adkins manages critical projects, streamlines internal communications, and ensures effective coordination between departments. This role involves enhancing organizational efficiency and driving key priorities forward. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing special assignments, and fostering collaboration among leadership. Adkins's work is essential for maintaining focus on the organization's mission and operational goals. Mandy Adkins ensures strategic alignment and operational synergy throughout Young Life.

    Shelley Meador - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Shelley Meador, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Young Life, leads the strategic direction for all human capital management initiatives. Meador oversees talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, and benefits to foster a supportive and high-performing work environment. This role is vital for attracting, retaining, and developing the dedicated staff and volunteers who power Young Life's mission. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures HR policies align with the organization's values and operational needs, promoting a culture of engagement and growth. Meador's expertise is key to building and sustaining a strong workforce. Shelley Meador champions human resources strategy across Young Life.
    Shelley Meador

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Young Life Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Young Life?
    Young Life is led by Newt Crenshaw (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Stacy Paolella (Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin) and Scott Brill (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Young Life’s executive team?
    The executive team of Young Life includes leaders such as Newt Crenshaw (Chief Executive Officer), Stacy Paolella (Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin), Scott Brill (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Young Life have?
    Young Life has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Young Life’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Young Life includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Family Chief Executive Officer and Headmistress and Executive Admin, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President.