Farewell and Thank You to Deb Bryant

A message from our board chair, Valerie Mann, and our past board chair, Lisa Coltart:

Dear friends, colleagues and partners, 

Deb Bryant, CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver, has shared that she will be stepping down from the organization in early September. On behalf of the Board of Directors, we thank Deb for her leadership and dedication to the YWCA. As CEO, Deb has led the organization through the unprecedented challenge of a global pandemic. She has managed and prioritized the health and safety of YWCA teams, volunteers and clients while working with staff to continue to provide our much-needed programs and services.  

Notwithstanding the pandemic, and with thanks to the management team and our donors, the YWCA has continued to track well on its strategic goals and ended 2020 in a strong financial position. The YWCA’s voice as a champion for gender equity has remained strong throughout. This time has been an overwhelming challenge for all organizations and leaders, and we thank Deb for her leadership. 

Deb’s last day will be September 10, following which Michelle Sing, Vice President, Human Resources, Volunteers and Crabtree Corner Community will assume the role of Interim CEO to guide the organization while we undertake a national executive search. We are confident that it will be a smooth transition for YWCA staff, clients and supporters. 

We wish you all the best, Deb, and we know you will continue to be an important part of the YWCA community. 

Sincerely, 

Valerie Mann, Board Chair 

Lisa Coltart, Past Board Chair 

A message from Deb:

Dear friends,

After some careful reflection this summer, I have decided to step down from my role as CEO of YWCA Metro Vancouver. I love the organization and the people I have had the good fortune to work with, and have been proud to serve as CEO.  

The YWCA and the movement we are part of are entering a new phase, a new era, and I feel that this transition merits a leader who will work alongside the organization over the years ahead to envision the future and see through the development and implementation of strategies to achieve it. 

As the YWCA approaches its 125th anniversary, it is clear that the organization is strong and vibrant, and its mission has never been more important. It has been a privilege to contribute to that work. I know that the YWCA will continue to be a tremendously positive force for gender equity and for women and their families.  

Sincerely, 

Deb Bryant, CEO