YWCA Bethlehem’s new executive director, Delia Marrero, is committed to the YWCA’s mission and aims to strengthen the organization as a transformative leader who centers on diversity, equity, inclusion, accessibility and belonging.

Marrero is a lifelong resident of the Lehigh Valley and has over 15 years of nonprofit experience. As a community organizer and advocate, she believes in centering the collective voices of marginalized communities. Through her work as a community leader in the Bethlehem area, Marrero has spent several years building and strengthening relationships with community leaders, city staff, and community members.

“I believe in the mission of the YWCA,” Marrero explains. “My goal as the executive director would be to imagine an organization with a strong advocacy arm and programming.”

“We are so excited to welcome Delia as our new executive director to grow and strengthen our work in the Lehigh Valley,” says Mahboobeh Shekari, director of finance, who took a leadership role in the interim period.

“Over the past year, the board recognizes the leadership of Mahboobeh Shekari, a leader who stabilized the YWCA Bethlehem during a period of leadership transition,” says YWCA board member Megan Barnes Briggs. “ We applaud Ms. Shekari and all the staff at the YWCA Bethlehem for their outstanding work during this transition.

“This is a critical time in the organization’s history – and in this pivotal moment, we have found the right leader who will align YWCA Bethlehem’s programs, leadership, and actions with our mission to eliminate racism and empower women,” Briggs says. “As a board, we look forward to fully supporting Delia in this role.”

Community members shared their enthusiasm about Delia Marrero joining the YWCA.

“I am pleased to know that Delia will be helping to bring this organization to new heights, and I am so glad that she is in the role,” says Winston Alozie, Boys and Girls Club Bethlehem chief executive officer. “I couldn’t think of a more pensive, introspective, emotionally salient, driven, intellectual, engaging person for this role.”

“Delia lives and breathes community building, connectivity and inclusion. I’m so excited to see her be welcome in a place where her strengths will be honored and used to continue to build community connections.” Bethlehem City Councilperson Rachel Leon said.

“Delia Marrero’s leadership is exactly what the YWCA needs in an executive director. She is forward thinking, results oriented, passionate and committed to transformational change. Our community will be stronger with her leading the charge. We are so proud of Delia and her achievements and cannot wait to work alongside her,” said Carolina Hernandez, assistant dean and community service director at Lehigh University

Visit www.ywcabethlehem.org to learn more about YWCA Bethlehem.

Contributed article