Margaret Mitchell selected to lead YWCA USA

YWCA Greater Cleveland President Margaret Mitchell has been selected as the new CEO of YWCA USA, according to a press release from the organization.

Mitchell has served as president of the Greater Cleveland branch for 10 years. During her time with YWCA Greater Cleveland, the organization grew from a staff of 35 people to more than 120.

She was selected for the YWCA USA position following a 10-month national search and will begin her new job Jan. 3.

“This city has embraced me and given me countless opportunities,” Mitchell said in the release. “It is difficult to leave the great people and partnerships that have supported me and the YWCA the past 10 years. I am grateful beyond words to this community.”

Over the last two years, Mitchell led efforts to declare racism a public health crisis in Cleveland and other parts of Ohio. In 2019, she launched the 21 Day Racial Equity and Social Justice Challenge, encouraging people to learn about local race issues and to take action. Earlier this year, she was recognized for her advocacy by YWCA USA with its Excellence Award for Racial Justice.

“Like all YWCA leaders, I believe in a world where all women and girls, especially women and girls of color, are free from racism and sexism, experience justice and equity, and are able to thrive,” Mitchell said.

In 2019, the YWCA took over management of the Norma Herr Women's Shelter in Downtown Cleveland after complaints about poor staffing and overcrowding.

Prior to her work with YWCA, Mitchell was president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Cleveland. 

“In Margaret, we found a leader with passion, a commitment to collaboration and building high-performing teams, and a belief that real social change is possible if we take an inclusive, wholistic view of our entire social system,” said YWCA USA Board of Directors Chairwoman Tina Herrera.

YWCA Greater Cleveland will fill the interim CEO role internally. The organization will then commence a national search for a permanent replacement.

“The board is grateful Margaret has laid a strong foundation for the organization’s future and we are proud that she has the opportunity to make an impact at the national level,” said YWCA Greater Cleveland Board Chair Pat Gardner.