NOV. 10, 2022 (COLUMBUS, OH) – On Thursday, Nov. 10, 2022, YWCA Columbus announced Elizabeth C. Brown will be the organization’s next president and CEO, effective Jan. 2, 2023. This comes as the organization’s current president and CEO, Christie Angel, is set to step down at the end of the year.
“Following an extensive national search, the YWCA Columbus Board is eager to share this news and for Councilmember Brown to step into the role as CEO,” said Janelle N. Coleman, YWCA Columbus Board Chair. “Liz’s diverse experience is impressive, and she is already such an engaged member of our community, advocating for women at all levels.”
Brown is a sitting member of Columbus City Council, where she has served for seven years, and holds the office of President Pro Tempore. She is also currently the executive director of the Ohio Women’s Public Policy Network, a statewide project of Innovation Ohio Education Fund, which works to improve women’s economic security through public policy.
When Angel began in 2017, the YWCA Columbus Board outlined goals to build a stronger leadership team, refresh the organization’s brand, focus on its mission of eliminating racism – along with empowering women – and be more involved in important community conversations around affordable housing and homelessness.
Under Angel’s leadership, YWCA Columbus raised $13.5M+ to serve over 8,200 Central Ohio women, men, and children experiencing homelessness, ensuring those who need it most have a safe and stable place to stay.
Since 2017, the YWCA Columbus Family Center has provided emergency shelter to an average of nearly 400 families per year and the Women’s Residency program has been able to help more than 100 women with disabilities successfully maintain supportive housing each year.
“Christie has done tremendous work as YWCA Columbus’ leader,” said Coleman. “We are confident she’s leaving YWCA Columbus in a strong place that will only continue to flourish under Elizabeth’s leadership. The board will be forever grateful for the leadership Christie displayed during pivotal moments over the last five years.”
About YWCA Columbus
YWCA Columbus defies the status quo that puts women, people of color, and the underprivileged on uneven footing. By fostering dialogue and providing practical resources and education, we promote empowerment and inclusion. YWCA Columbus initiates systematic social change that will create a Columbus of peace, justice freedom and dignity for all.