YWCA USA Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

YWCA USA has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, human resources, and board development.

Driven by a commitment to advancing women's leadership, YWCA USA advocates for peace, justice, human rights, and sustainable development, impacting communities across the nation.

Leadership Roles at YWCA USA

  • Chief Executive Officer - Teresa Tepania-Ashton
  • Chief Executive Officer & Director - Cathy Jones
  • Chief Financial Officer - Taryn Payne
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rhonda Hendrickson
  • President, Board Development Chair & Board - Nancy Miller
  • Interim District President - F.M Mtonga
  • President of the Board of Directors - Patricia Brooks
  • President, Human Resources & Executive - Anne Motsenbocker
  • YWCA Junior Board of Directors President - Sheridan Nichols
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Laura Garza
  • Teresa Tepania-Ashton - Chief Executive Officer

    Teresa Tepania-Ashton, the Chief Executive Officer at YWCA USA, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. This leadership position involves guiding YWCA USA's mission to empower women and girls and eliminate racism, aligning all departmental efforts with these core objectives. Tepania-Ashton oversees the strategic planning process, ensuring that initiatives effectively address critical social justice issues and promote sustainable development. The Chief Executive Officer collaborates with the board of directors to set organizational priorities and foster strong relationships with stakeholders, community partners, and affiliated YWCA associations nationwide. This role is pivotal in driving the organization's impact and ensuring its continued relevance in advocating for human rights and peace. Teresa Tepania-Ashton's leadership ensures the organization remains at the forefront of social change efforts, championing equity and opportunity for all.
    Teresa Tepania-Ashton

    Cathy Jones - Chief Executive Officer & Director

    Cathy Jones, the Chief Executive Officer & Director at YWCA USA, spearheads the strategic direction and governance of the organization. This dual role encompasses both the executive leadership responsibilities of the Chief Executive Officer and direct oversight of board activities, ensuring robust governance practices. Jones focuses on advancing YWCA USA's mission of empowering women and girls and eliminating racism through comprehensive programmatic strategies and advocacy efforts. The Chief Executive Officer & Director works closely with affiliated YWCA associations to foster collaboration and amplify collective impact across the United States. This leadership position is critical for driving organizational growth, ensuring financial sustainability, and championing the YWCA's commitment to human rights and social justice. Cathy Jones's tenure is marked by a dedication to strengthening the organization's presence and influence in critical social arenas.

    Taryn Payne - Chief Financial Officer

    Taryn Payne, the Chief Financial Officer at YWCA USA, manages the organization's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. This executive role involves overseeing all financial operations, including budgeting, accounting, financial reporting, and investment management, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations. Payne is responsible for developing and implementing financial strategies that support YWCA USA's mission of empowering women and girls and eliminating racism. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with other C-suite leaders to allocate resources effectively, optimize financial performance, and ensure the long-term sustainability of the organization. This position is crucial for maintaining fiscal integrity and providing the financial foundation necessary for programmatic success and advocacy efforts. Taryn Payne's expertise ensures robust financial oversight, enabling YWCA USA to expand its reach and impact.

    Rhonda Hendrickson - Chief Operating Officer

    Rhonda Hendrickson, the Chief Operating Officer at YWCA USA, directs the day-to-day operational activities and ensures the efficient execution of organizational strategies. This critical role involves overseeing various departments, optimizing internal processes, and managing resources to support YWCA USA's mission of empowering women and girls and eliminating racism. Hendrickson focuses on enhancing operational effectiveness, driving programmatic delivery, and ensuring seamless coordination across all organizational functions. The Chief Operating Officer plays a key part in implementing strategic initiatives, managing risk, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. This leadership position is essential for translating strategic goals into tangible outcomes and ensuring the organization operates with maximum efficiency and impact. Rhonda Hendrickson's operational leadership underpins the successful delivery of YWCA USA's vital services and advocacy.

    Nancy Miller - President, Board Development Chair & Board

    Nancy Miller, the President, Board Development Chair & Board at YWCA USA, provides strategic leadership and governance oversight. This multifaceted role involves chairing board development initiatives, ensuring the board's effectiveness, and guiding the organization's strategic direction. Miller focuses on strengthening board capacity, fostering robust governance practices, and ensuring alignment with YWCA USA's mission to empower women and girls and eliminate racism. The President, Board Development Chair & Board collaborates closely with the Chief Executive Officer and other board members to set organizational priorities and advance advocacy efforts. This position is crucial for maintaining high standards of corporate governance and ensuring the long-term health and impact of the organization. Nancy Miller's leadership enhances the board's strategic contribution to YWCA USA's mission.

    F.M Mtonga - Interim District President

    F.M Mtonga, the Interim District President at YWCA USA, provides temporary leadership and strategic guidance for a specific district or region. This role involves overseeing operations within the designated area, ensuring alignment with YWCA USA's broader mission to empower women and girls and eliminate racism. Mtonga focuses on maintaining organizational momentum, supporting local initiatives, and fostering relationships with community stakeholders during the interim period. The Interim District President works to ensure continuity of services and advocacy efforts, addressing immediate needs and challenges within the district. This position is critical for maintaining operational stability and advancing the YWCA's objectives in the interim. F.M Mtonga's leadership ensures continued progress and support for YWCA USA's mission.

    Patricia Brooks - President of the Board of Directors

    Patricia Brooks, the President of the Board of Directors at YWCA USA, leads the governing body, ensuring effective oversight and strategic direction. This executive role involves guiding board meetings, setting the agenda, and fostering collaboration among board members to advance YWCA USA's mission of empowering women and girls and eliminating racism. Brooks is responsible for ensuring the board fulfills its fiduciary duties, provides strategic counsel, and upholds the organization's values and commitments. The President of the Board of Directors works closely with the Chief Executive Officer to ensure organizational effectiveness and impact. This position is vital for maintaining strong governance and driving the organization's advocacy and programmatic efforts. Patricia Brooks's leadership ensures the board's strategic guidance supports YWCA USA's mission.

    Anne Motsenbocker - President, Human Resources & Executive

    Anne Motsenbocker, the President, Human Resources & Executive at YWCA USA, directs critical aspects of organizational leadership and human capital strategy. This role encompasses overseeing human resources functions and contributing to executive-level decision-making, ensuring alignment with YWCA USA's mission to empower women and girls and eliminate racism. Motsenbocker focuses on developing and implementing HR policies that foster a positive and inclusive work environment, support employee development, and attract top talent. The President, Human Resources & Executive collaborates with other leaders to drive organizational effectiveness and ensure the workforce is equipped to meet strategic objectives. This position is essential for building a strong, mission-driven team. Anne Motsenbocker's leadership strengthens YWCA USA's human resources framework and executive strategy.

    Sheridan Nichols - YWCA Junior Board of Directors President

    Sheridan Nichols, the YWCA Junior Board of Directors President at YWCA USA, leads the engagement and development of emerging leaders within the organization. This role involves guiding the Junior Board's initiatives, fostering a pipeline of future leaders, and ensuring their contributions align with YWCA USA's mission to empower women and girls and eliminate racism. Nichols focuses on developing leadership skills among junior board members and facilitating their participation in organizational strategy and advocacy. The YWCA Junior Board of Directors President serves as a liaison between the junior board and the main board, bringing fresh perspectives and insights. This position is crucial for cultivating the next generation of leaders committed to social justice. Sheridan Nichols's leadership empowers young voices within YWCA USA.

    Laura Garza - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Laura Garza, the Chief Human Resources Officer at YWCA USA, leads all human capital management initiatives, ensuring a supportive and productive work environment. This executive position involves developing and implementing HR strategies that align with YWCA USA's mission to empower women and girls and eliminate racism. Garza oversees talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, performance management, and professional development programs. The Chief Human Resources Officer is instrumental in fostering a diverse and inclusive organizational culture, attracting and retaining top talent, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and regulations. This role is vital for building a strong, engaged workforce capable of driving the organization's social impact goals. Laura Garza's strategic HR leadership cultivates a robust team dedicated to YWCA USA's mission.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding YWCA USA Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads YWCA USA?
    YWCA USA is led by Teresa Tepania-Ashton (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Cathy Jones (Chief Executive Officer & Director) and Taryn Payne (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of YWCA USA’s executive team?
    The executive team of YWCA USA includes leaders such as Teresa Tepania-Ashton (Chief Executive Officer), Cathy Jones (Chief Executive Officer & Director), Taryn Payne (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does YWCA USA have?
    YWCA USA has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in YWCA USA’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of YWCA USA includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Director, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Board Development Chair & Board.