Derrick J. Stewart to be new CEO at YMCA of Greater Indianapolis

41-year-old Stewart has been CEO of the YMCA of Southwestern IN for 10 years

Derrick J. Stewart has been named the new president and CEO for the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis effective Feb. 4, 2019. Selected by the Y’s Board of Directors following a five-month national search, Stewart will succeed Eric Ellsworth who will step down on Feb. 1 after serving in the position for 13 years.

In his new role Stewart will be responsible for taking the lead on the Y’s strategic plan, which includes strengthening Central Indiana communities through key areas of healthy living, youth development and social responsibility. He’s also charged with building organizational capacity, increasing Y membership, providing innovative programs and continuing capital campaigns to build a YMCA in Westfield, IN, and new cabins and other infrastructure at Flat Rock River YMCA Camp.

Experience, Energy & Vision

“During our search for a new CEO, we looked at exceptional candidates across the nation, but Derrick Stewart stood out among the highly competitive field. His vision and passion for the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis is exactly what we were looking for in a leader,” said Jeffrey Harrison, chair of the YMCA Board of Directors. “With Derrick’s experience in community development and creating a mission-focused culture, we are convinced that the YMCA of Greater Indianapolis will have engaging and innovative leadership for years to come.”

“I am thrilled to join the YMCA family in Indianapolis and to have the opportunity to work with such a passionate and committed team of staff and volunteers,” said Stewart. “I believe in the power of the Y to be a force for good in the communities we serve and will work diligently to expand the mission and impact of the YMCA in Central Indiana.”

Employment History

Stewart has served as the CEO at the YMCA of Southwestern Indiana for 10 years. While there, he’s driven significant growth in programs and philanthropic support, launched new initiatives and has become an influential voice in the nonprofit community. Prior to the YMCA, Stewart held positions as a commercial relationship manager and community development officer at Old National Bank and as a corporate consultant with Arthur Anderson, LLP. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business-Finance from Indiana University Kelley School of Business.

Leadership Roles Held by Stewart

• 2019 YMCA General Assembly Planning Task Force, chair
• YMCA Employee Benefits Management Committee, member
• Corporate Board of Directors of Old National Bancorp, member
• Regional Board of Trustees for Ivy Tech Community College, member
• Evansville Christian School Board, vice president
• YMCA of the USA National Board of Directors, past member
• YMCA of the USA Small & Mid-Size YMCA Cabinet, past chair

An Evansville, IN native, Stewart and his wife Chotsani have been married for 17 years and have two school-aged children.

Welcome to Greater Indianapolis, Derrick!

CONTACT: Christy Glesing, APR, sr. director of PR & communications | (317) 667-5991