Meet the YMCA Staff
Our team includes professionals from both the Greater Waterbury YMCA and Waterbury Youth Services (WYS), the youth development and family support branch of the Y.
Together, we work to empower individuals, strengthen families, and build a healthier, more connected Waterbury. Whether it's wellness, early childhood education, teen leadership, or community outreach, our staff are here to serve—with heart, purpose, and dedication.
Anthony Ireland CEO
203.754.YMCA (9622)
Anthony Ireland is a lifelong leader, mentor, and champion for youth development and community empowerment. Born and raised in Waterbury, Anthony brings both deep local roots and a global perspective to his role as Chief Executive Officer of the Greater Waterbury YMCA.
A graduate of Loyola Marymount University, Anthony earned All-American honors as a student-athlete before embarking on an eight-year professional basketball career across Europe and Asia. These international experiences shaped his core values of teamwork, cultural connection, and resilience—principles that guide his leadership style today.
In 2018, Anthony founded The Leadership University Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to serving underrepresented youth and families through mentorship, education, athletics, and wellness. His work has positively impacted thousands through after-school programs, youth employment, summer camps, and community events. He also leads the AI 3 Leadership Academy, a social enterprise focused on character development through sport.
Anthony has long been involved with the YMCA, serving on the Board of Directors at the Greater Waterbury Y, and also holds a seat on the Waterbury Board of Education. His leadership is driven by collaboration, equity, and innovation—and a commitment to creating safe, inclusive spaces where youth and families can thrive.
Anthony is a proud husband and father, and his vision for the YMCA is clear: to ensure every person who walks through our doors feels valued, inspired, and empowered.
Kristen Jones Associate Executive Director
Kristen has been part of the YMCA community since 2004, beginning her career in Before and After School programs where she discovered her passion for working with children and supporting families.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Central Connecticut State University and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from the University of Bridgeport.
Over the years, Kristen has grown into several leadership roles at the Greater Waterbury YMCA, including School-Age Director and Child Development Director, where she led early childhood and school-age programs and worked closely with families, staff, and community partners to strengthen program quality and create spaces where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn.
Kristen now serves as the Associate Executive Director, helping to guide the organization’s programs and operations while remaining connected to the families and staff the YMCA serves every day. She is deeply committed to building strong relationships, supporting working families, and ensuring the YMCA remains a welcoming place where the entire community can thrive.
Manny Martinez Development Director
Tami Macary Human Resources Director
203.754.YMCA (9622) x104
Tami began her YMCA career at the Naugatuck YMCA in 1989 and has been with the Waterbury YMCA since 1996. Tami serves on the CEO’s Senior Leadership Team and oversees all human resources functions, including employee relations, wage & salary administration, employee safety, workers’ compensation, benefits management, ensuring compliance with all State and Federal regulatory agencies and policy administration.
Tami works closely with the Safety/Risk Management Committee to see that the YMCA remains a safe place for all who enter.
Gary Bruce Controller/Grant Accountant
203.754.YMCA (9622) x415
Gary is the Controller/Grant Accountant at the Greater Waterbury YMCA, where he has served since 2020. He holds a BA in Accounting from the University of New Haven and is currently pursuing an MBA in Organizational Leadership from Post University. A former Deputy Fire Marshal, Gary is a pragmatic professional who’s just as comfortable working in the weeds of accounting systems as he is presenting at a budget variance meeting. He is a member of the Waterbury Exchange Club and a six-time IRONMAN finisher, committed to discipline, community impact, and practical leadership rooted in accountability and results.
Jazmone Tucker Facilities Director
203.754.YMCA (9622) x113
As the Facilities Director, Jazmone brings over a decade of comprehensive maintenance and asset management expertise to the Greater Waterbury YMCA. She operates on a foundational philosophy: a meticulously maintained facility is the cornerstone of an exceptional member experience. Since joining the Y team five years ago, Jazmone has championed this vision daily.
She prides herself on her proactive leadership and behind-the-scenes dedication, frequently going above and beyond standard operational scopes to ensure our environments are safe, inclusive, and impeccably presented. This tireless work ethic is second nature to Jazmone; as a mother of three, she is a master of multitasking and thrives in high-motion environments where seamless coordination is key.
For Jazmone, facility management extends far beyond routine maintenance and cleanliness—it is about stewardship, operational excellence, and protecting the place our community calls home.
Patti Flaherty Senior Director of Programs
203.754.YMCA (9622) x112
Patricia (Patti) has been the Aquatics Director at the Greater Waterbury YMCA since 1998, making a lasting impact on swimmers of all ages and skill levels. She oversees youth, adult, senior, and competitive swimming programs, including swim lessons, the Barracuda Swim Team, SAW Swim Week, and senior swim programs.
In addition to running top-notch aquatics programs, Patti is responsible for staff first aid and safety training and serves as an American Red Cross volunteer instructor. Her dedication to water safety and skill development has helped countless members build confidence in and around the water.
Recently promoted to Senior Director of Programs, she now oversees Wellness, Membership, and Aquatics.
Adam Dubois Outdoor Center Director
860.274.4820
Adam is the Outdoor Center Director and calls YMCA Camp Mataucha his home! He is no stranger to the camp world, having started in summer camp programs as a 3 year old camper in 1992! Over the course of his Y career, he has worked in multiple departments including: School Age Child Care, Teen Programs, Membership, and of course, Camp!
Adam is a graduate of Southern Connecticut State University with a degree in Community Recreation and Youth Development. He started with the Greater Waterbury YMCA in 2017 and has grown into a major figure in the CT camping community- serving on the Connecticut Camping Association Board of Directors and as the Peer Network Leader for the Connecticut and Rhode Island Alliance of YMCAs.
When Adam is not at camp, you can find him rooting for his favorite sports teams: The New York Giants and the New York Yankees!
Alisa Brown Child Development Director
203.754.YMCA (9622) x204
Alisa has been an integral part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA since 2019. With an associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education and both a bachelor’s and master's in Psychology, Alisa brings over a decade of expertise to her role. She’s held positions as a classroom teacher, Assistant Director, and Child Development Site Director, allowing her to impact children’s lives at every stage. Alisa is deeply passionate about fostering social-emotional learning, collaboration, and championing a sense of belonging for children and adults alike. Her career is driven by a commitment to creating environments where every individual thrives.
Shavonne Arline School Age Childcare Director
203.754.YMCA (9622) x123
Shavonne was born, raised, and educated in Waterbury. Earning her Bachelor's degree in Human Services from Post University in 2011, her education laid the foundation for her career.
For 12 years, she dedicated her time and expertise as a preschool teacher at the Greater Waterbury YMCA, nurturing young minds to foster intellectual growth.
Phyllis Lucas-Coleman Child Development Site Director
plucascoleman@waterburyymca.org
203.754.YMCA (9622) x 407
Phyllis has been a dedicated professional in the Early Childhood Education field since 2003. She earned her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Naugatuck Valley Community College in 2012 and went on to receive her Bachelor’s Degree in Child Studies from Post University in 2018.
In 2022, Phyllis transitioned into the role of Child Development Site Director, using her extensive experience as a teacher to support and empower other educators. Her ability to relate to teachers and foster their growth has made her a valued leader. Phyllis’s true passion lies in helping children thrive—whether it’s guiding them to find their voice, building their confidence, or ensuring they succeed as they navigate the world around them.
Sarah Mitchell Marketing Director
Johan Castillo Marketing Coordinator
Maria Rodriguez Membership & Wellness Director
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Maria Rodriguez is proud to call Waterbury her hometown and has been part of the YMCA family since 1999. Her journey with the Y took her to Pennsylvania, where she spent 12 years at the Blair Regional YMCA, honing her customer service skills and deepening her commitment to the Y’s mission. Now back home at the Greater Waterbury YMCA as Membership & Wellness Director, Maria is dedicated to fostering Youth Development, Healthy Living, and Social Responsibility in our community. Outside of work, she loves spending time with family and friends.
Edna Walton Teen Director
203.754.YMCA (9622) x162
Edna has been working for the YMCA since 2010. She has worked in Before and After School, YMCA Camp Summer Sunshine, and Camp Mataucha. At the YMCA, she has been building relationships with children and their families. Also, Edna is a proud Waterburian and has volunteered in areas around the Greater Waterbury Community. She is passionate about mentoring our youth with her experiences.
Edna currently oversees the Youth & Teen Department, Berkeley Center, and 21st Century Program.
Rachel Walker Human Resource Assistant
203.754.YMCA (9622) x129
Rachel has been part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA since 2007, taking on various roles over the years before stepping into Human Resources in 2015. She became full-time in Human Resources in 2022.
Tammie Lee Camp and Child Care Registrar
Contact Tammie about registration for all Child Care Programs as well as Care4Kids!
Zoraida Torres Administrative & Child Development Assistant
203.754.YMCA (9622) x114
Zoraida has been a valued part of the Greater Waterbury YMCA for 12 years, bringing warmth and efficiency to everything she does. As the Administrative & Child Development Assistant, she plays a key role in processing Financial Assistance and supporting families with registration for all child care programs and camp.
Fluent in Spanish, Zoraida ensures that all families feel welcome and supported as they navigate YMCA programs. Whether handling paperwork or assisting with families in need, she is always ready to help with a friendly smile.
Amy Miele Child Development Student Support Specialist
203.754.YMCA (9622) x115
Amy brings 19 years of experience to the Early Childhood Education field, having started her journey in 2006. She earned her associate’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Naugatuck Valley Community College in 2002 and a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Western Connecticut State University in 2005. Amy’s career began as a Head Teacher at the Greater Waterbury YMCA Child Development Center, where she quickly advanced to the role of Director, and later, Student Support Specialist. Amy is deeply passionate about supporting children with special needs, dedicating herself to creating personalized education plans for their success and growth. Her unwavering commitment to helping every child thrive makes her a trusted advocate in the field.
Holly Ramos Family Engagement Specialist
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Holly has been a valued member of the Greater Waterbury YMCA Child Development Center since 2012. After earning her associate’s degree in 2013 and completing her bachelor’s degree in 2019 from Charter Oak State College, Holly’s dedication to Early Childhood Education has spanned an impressive 23 years. In the last two years, she transitioned into a new role as a Family Engagement Specialist, where she has been able to make an even greater impact on both families and students. Holly’s passion lies in meeting families where they are, addressing their unique needs, and supporting their growth and success. Her commitment to building strong, meaningful connections is at the heart of everything she does.
Amber Upson Wellness Coordinator
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Amber found the Greater Waterbury YMCA as a program participant and immediately knew she wanted to be a part of the Y. Joining the team in 2020 as a yoga instructor, she now serves as Wellness Coordinator, responsible for Group Fitness and LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA.
Prior to becoming Wellness Coordinator, she taught yoga across all age groups and occasionally covered early-morning Wellness Floor shifts. Amber brings a creative, collaborative energy to building programs that strengthen community at the Y. A two-time cancer survivor, she leads LIVESTRONG® with deep gratitude and a strong focus on connection and support.
Her background ranges from retail and energy efficiency to the film industry and small-business ownership, with a degree in fashion design—she can lead you through a sun salutation and style your 'fit.
Amber’s guiding philosophy is simple: enjoy life, keep learning, keep growing, and don’t take yourself too seriously. Outside work, she enjoys books, movies, art and design, Dungeons & Dragons, and time with her nearest and dearest. She lives in Naugatuck with her very patient husband, Brandon, and their two cats, Kang and Kodos.
Jerome Cunningham Wellness Coordinator
203.598.2435
Jerome is a former NFL player turned Wellness Coordinator, with a career built at the intersection of elite performance, leadership, and long-term well-being. After competing at the highest level of professional football, Jerome transitioned from the field to a mission-driven career focused on helping individuals and organizations with their fitness goals. Unlocking their full potential physically, mentally, and professionally.
Throughout his career, Jerome has held leadership roles in health, fitness, and wellness programming, where he has designed and led initiatives that improve performance, increase engagement, and build sustainable habits. As a Wellness Coordinator, he oversees comprehensive programs that serve diverse populations, from youth athletes and everyday gym members to high-performing professionals. His background as a professional athlete gives him a unique edge, and he understands what it takes to perform under pressure, recover effectively, and lead with accountability.
Jerome is driven by a core belief that wellness is not a luxury, and it lays out the foundation for success. His approach centers on discipline, consistency, and education, with a strong emphasis on mental resilience, teamwork, and long-term health over quick fixes. He values integrity, relationship-building, and empowering others to take ownership of their growth both inside and outside the gym.
Outside of work, Jerome remains deeply connected to athletics and community impact. He is passionate about mentoring youth athletes, developing innovative fitness programs, and continuously learning in the areas of leadership, business, and human performance. When he’s not working, you’ll find him training, coaching, planning new initiatives, or spending time with family.
Randwell George Wellness Coordinator
203.754.YMCA (9622)
Randwell is a dedicated wellness professional and operations leader serving as a Wellness Coordinator and Director on Duty at the Greater Waterbury YMCA. He oversees daily wellness operations, collaborates with fitness instructors and personal trainers, and ensures a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for all members. Randwell is known for his hands-on leadership style, commitment to excellence, and ability to create meaningful health and fitness experiences for the community.
With a strong foundation in safety, behavioral management, and conflict resolution, Randwell brings over five years of professional experience in security and facility operations. His background allows him to lead with vigilance, professionalism, and calm under pressure, ensuring that staff, members, and visitors feel protected and supported.
As Director on Duty, he manages facility operations, resolves conflicts, conducts safety checks, and ensures compliance with YMCA policies and emergency procedures.
Randwell holds multiple professional certifications, including Personal Trainer Certification from the International Sports Sciences Association, Assistant Instructor Certification from IMBCT Martial Arts Academy, and CPR/AED for Professional Rescuers through the American Red Cross.
Driven by a passion for health, wellness, and leadership, Randwell is committed to helping individuals and families build stronger, healthier lives. Whether leading a wellness program, mentoring staff, or ensuring facility safety, he brings integrity, discipline, and purpose to every role he serves.
Olivia Dudley Waterbury Youth Services, Director of Program Operations
203.573.0264
Olivia is a dedicated and accomplished human services professional, born and raised in Waterbury, Connecticut, with over a decade of experience in youth development, youth advocacy, and nonprofit program leadership. She currently serves as the Director of Program Operations at Waterbury Youth Services (WYS), where she oversees agency-wide programming, supervises team leaders, and ensures that all services align with the organization’s mission and the evolving needs of the greater Waterbury community. In this role, she leads quality assurance efforts, strategic planning, and reporting for funders, while also maintaining key relationships with local partners and stakeholders.
Before assuming her current leadership position, Olivia served as the Positive Youth Development Team Leader at WYS. During her tenure, she provided oversight and coaching to program managers, coordinated trainings and workshops, led community outreach efforts, and played an instrumental role in strategic and operational planning. Her collaborative approach helped strengthen the agency’s presence in the region and improve outcomes for youth and families.
Olivia’s commitment to community engagement extends far beyond her professional role. She actively serves in leadership and advisory capacities across the region and State of Connecticut, including:
- First Vice President, Greater Waterbury Area Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
- Board Member, Connecticut Youth Services Association
- Chair, Human Services Committee, Waterbury Regional Chamber’s Leadership Greater Waterbury
- Board Member, Waterbury Exchange Club
- Board Member, Bridge To Success
- Advisory Council Member, Racial Justice Institute, Urban Community Alliance
- Steering Committee Member, United Way of Greater Waterbury Women United
Olivia earned a Master of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Victimology from the University of New Haven, along with a certificate in Applications in Psychology. She has completed extensive training in youth mental health, trauma-informed care, and independent living skills, and she is certified in DCF’s Learning Inventory of Skills Training (LIST).
Throughout her career, Olivia has remained committed to creating opportunities, building partnerships, and promoting the well-being of youth and families in Connecticut, especially the youth and families in Waterbury. Her leadership is marked by integrity, vision, and a deep understanding of the systems that impact underserved communities.
Rasheeda Wright Waterbury Youth Services, Juvenile Justice Team Leader
rwright@waterburyyouthservices.org
203.573.0264
Rasheeda, LMSW received her BSW from SCSU and her MSW from UCONN. She is the Youth Diversion Team(YDT) Leader at Waterbury Youth Services and has worked with the organization for 5 years. Fun fact, Rasheeda participated in summer youth employment as a youth in the past and even interned at the agency before being hired in 2020. Rasheeda also chairs the Racial and Ethnic Disparitites Meetings that is held quarterly at the agency, is the Region 5 Youth Diversion Team Director and had chaired the agency's PromProject event for the last 4 years. Rasheeda supervises case managers in the Youth Diversion Team Program, formely known as Juvenile Review Board(JRB) and the Truancy Prevention Program. She provides supervison, trainings and evaluations for these staff. Part of her role as the Youth Diversion Team Leader is to submit reports to funders,faciliate YDT panels, process referrals, track trends and client feedback and recruit and provide oversight to volunteers. Rasheeda has recently graduated from the Waterbury's Regional Chamber Leadership of Greater Waterbury Class of 2024 and serves as a steering committee member. Rasheeda has a passion for working with youth and looks forward to gaining new tools to guide youth to achieve success.
Shenquaya Clements Waterbury Youth Services, Clinical Team Leader
Dominiqua Garry Waterbury Youth Services, Positive Youth Development Team Leader
dgarry@waterburyyouthservices.org
203.573.0264
Dominiqua is the Positive Youth Development Director at Waterbury Youth Services. Inspired by her devotion to giving back to the community she was born and raised in, working in Waterbury has always been at the forefront. Through her background in Education and Behavioral Analysis, Dominiqua is dedicated to Positive Youth Development across all levels. Overseeing the Linking Academics to Life Afterschool Program, R.E.A.L. Rising Up Mentoring, SMART Recovery, and Workforce Development, Dominiqua ensures all youth who come through the organization are seen for who they are and are given the opportunity to discover their unique talents and passions. Dominiqua has been with the organization for 3 years and prior to her current role as PYD Director, she was the Head Facilitator of the REBOOT Out of School Suspension Program at WYS, winning the Program of the Year Award in 2023.
Kerry Linden CAC Program Director/Family Advocate
203.573.0264 x309
Kerry has dedicated more than 16 years to supporting children and families impacted by sexual violence through advocacy, counseling, and trauma-informed care. She spent over 14 years at Safe Haven of Greater Waterbury, where she provided sexual violence advocacy, case management, and counseling services to children and their families.
In January 2025, Kerry joined the Child Advocacy Center of Greater Waterbury full-time as CAC Coordinator and was later promoted to Program Director in October 2025. In her current role, she continues to provide trauma-focused treatment and support to children who are victims of sexual violence, as well as to their family members. Kerry is certified in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Child and Family Traumatic Stress Intervention (CFTSI).
Kerry earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Western Connecticut State University and her Master of Science degree in Human Services with a concentration in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Post University. Throughout her career, she has received numerous awards and recognitions for her contributions to the field of child abuse prevention and advocacy, and she remains deeply committed to serving children and families in need.
