After a national search for its new chief executive officer, the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee has selected Julie Tolan to lead the nonprofit organization.
Tolan will begin her new role on Aug. 12, succeeding Bob Yamachika, whose Milwaukee Y career spanned more than 30 years, the last six as president and CEO.
Tolan will be the first female CEO for the organization, which is the longest-serving nonprofit in Milwaukee, having opened its doors more than 150 years ago.
“We are thrilled to have Julie join the Y leadership team as president and CEO,” said Bob Venable, chairman of the Y’s board of directors. “There are many reasons why Julie is the right person to lead our Y, but it is her incredible track record as a collaborative force in the community that we are most excited about. Julie’s mission focus and her strength in building relationships and partnerships will serve the Y and the people of Milwaukee extremely well.”
A non-profit executive with 25 years of experience, Tolan most recently was president of JA Tolan & Associates, where she consulted with executives on leadership and organizational efficiency, board development, and creating cultures of philanthropy.
Tolan received the Scott Cutlip Outstanding Professional Award from The Greater Milwaukee Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals in 2010.
“I am very honored and enthusiastic about this opportunity,” said Tolan. “The Y is an incredible community asset with an extensive track record of positive impact and an extremely dedicated staff.”
Tolan served as vice president of university advancement at Marquette University in Milwaukee from 2002 to 2012.
Prior to Marquette University, Tolan was president of the United Performing Arts Fund (UPAF) in Milwaukee for three years.
The Y is planning to celebrate Yamachika’s career in September.
“Bob has been an invaluable asset to the Y, and we wish him well on his retirement,” said Venable. “Throughout his Y career, Bob positively impacted countless children, adults and families throughout Milwaukee and helped guide our Y through many positive transformations that have had significant, long-term impact on our community.”
