A Letter from Anthony Walters, President and CEO, on International Women’s Day

On International Women’s Day, I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the profound daily contributions that women make to our YMCA movement. On a personal level, I’m surrounded by the absolute best and brightest the business industry has to offer in a variety of categories, from fellow team members to board/volunteer contributors, and I could not be more proud to serve alongside a number of incredible leaders across the Y movement and in the YMCA of South Hampton Roads specifically. 

On this day, March 8th, 2023, I’m honored to call out the countless leaders in our local movement that exhibit excellence across industry lines and take an approach of servant leadership while making sacrifices that, as a man, I will never fully comprehend. For the things I see, the things I know, the things I don’t know, and the things I don’t understand, know that while I will never be able to walk a mile in your shoes. However, please know that I will always have empathy, pledge to create opportunities, take the counsel and guidance you provide, and realize your brilliance in my journey as a leader. 

To the women that power the YMCA of South Hampton Roads, please know that I appreciate you—today and every single day. You are a blessing to our mission and cause and the foundation of creating belonging in our community. I want to thank you for what you do to ensure our neighborhoods are successful and encourage you to not only support one another but also to continue to lead as you have always done. The world is right when you are in charge, and where would we be without your leadership?

I am honored to lead with you and honored to follow you. Know that you are abundantly appreciated.
 
Respect,

Anthony Walters
President & CEO
YMCA of South Hampton Roads