YWCA selects new leader

YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County has selected a longtime organizational and diversity, equity and inclusion leader as its next president and CEO.

Myra Henry will take the helm of the agency on Dec. 1, replacing Angela Panzarella, who will retire at the end of November.

“We are indebted to outgoing YWCA of Rochester & Monroe County President and CEO Angela Panzarella, who has spent the last several years establishing a strong foundation for the agency’s future. Her oversight and management have ensured YWCA will continue to be a critical and relevant resource in our community,” said YWCA Board Chair Liz Vega in a statement.

Henry is a Rochester-based organizational leader with more than 20 years of management experience and is a proven advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion. As a values-based leader, Henry most recently served as deputy dean for organizational development and inclusivity for the River Campus Libraries at the University of Rochester. She also was an executive member of the university’s Diversity and Equity Committee.

Henry has served as a strategy team member and facilitator for the Monroe County Transformation of Police and Community team. She has extensive nonprofit board experience and currently serves on the board of trustees at Catholic Charities Community Services of Rochester.

Henry earned an Ed.D. in executive leadership from St. John Fisher College and also holds a master of science in management, as well as a bachelor of science in organizational management, both from Keuka College.

When Panzarella retires at the end of November, Henry will begin her tenure as leader for the organization. Henry will work closely with the board of directors, staff and community partners to develop and implement a new strategic plan for the future of the agency.

“We could not be more pleased that Dr. Henry has accepted the role of president and CEO. We are excited to welcome her as a transformational leader and agent for change. We are looking forward to the great things that she will accomplish at the helm of YWCA,” said Cindy Langston, chair of the YWCA CEO search committee and board vice-chair.

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