Bethlehem, PA: On June 1, YWCA Bethlehem welcomed Delia Marrero as the newly appointed Executive Director. Delia 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. Delia 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, Delia 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 that centers on diversity, equity, inclusion, access, and belonging.”

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

“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. We applaud Ms. Shekari and all the staff at the YWCA Bethlehem for their outstanding work during this transition,” Board Member, Megan Barnes Briggs stated. Megan went on to explain, “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. As a board, we look forward to fully supporting Delia in this role.”

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

Winston Alozie, chief Executive Office of the Boys and Girls Club Bethlehem, “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. 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

“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.” Carolina Hernandez Assistant Dean and Director Community Service, Lehigh University

YWCA Staff and Board, as well as Community Stakeholders all welcome Delia into her new role at the YWCA Bethlehem, and look forward to the organization’s future under her leadership.

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

Information provided to TVL by:
Denise Pierson-Balik
Development Director
YWCA Bethlehem

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