McGaw YMCA Leader Selected for Multicultural Executive Leadership Cohort

Tai is standing in front of the YMCA sign outside of the main building at the corner of Maple and Grove. She is wearing a white pantsuit and is smiling.

McGaw Y employee Taishiya Nix was selected to participate in the YMCA of the USA’s Multicultural Executive Development Institute (MEDI).

EVANSTON, IL. – McGaw YMCA proudly announces that Taishiya Nix has been selected to participate in the YMCA of the USA’s Multicultural Executive Development Institute (MEDI). This esteemed national program is dedicated to developing and advancing staff of color into leadership roles throughout the YMCA movement.

Taishiya Nix (she/her), Director of Talent Engagement, is the first McGaw YMCA employee to join MEDI as a mentee. She, along with other members of the cohort, kicked off their journey with a four-day Institute hosted by the YMCA of Honolulu on O’ahu. The Insitute featured executive coaching, mock interviews, and solutions-based research projects with and for members of the Honolulu community, offering participants an immersive experience in Pacific Island culture and valuable leadership training.

Reflecting on her selection, Taishiya said that participating in the cohort is a key moment in her personal growth, as it is helping her discover what drives her as a cause-driven leader. She hopes the MEDI experience will foster deeper connections and enhance her leadership skills, especially in promoting diversity and inclusion within the national and local YMCA movement. “Building genuine connections and learning from our rich history, I’m eager to explore fresh ideas that ensure everyone feels welcome in our community and collaborate for meaningful change.”

Monique Parsons, President and CEO of McGaw Y, also participated in the Institute in O’ahu as a coach. This marks Monique’s third time contributing to MEDI, having previously served as a cohort Dean. She will mentor two participants from other YMCAs throughout the year-long program, bringing her experience and insights to guide the next generation of YMCA leaders.

“Taishiya’s selection for MEDI is a testament to our vision of growing and nurturing leaders, particularly leaders of color, within our Y. Her journey will not only enhance her growth but also strengthen our collective commitment to creating a YMCA where everyone belongs,” said Parsons.

“I am honored to support her and other emerging leaders through this transformative program, as we work together to build a more dynamic YMCA movement that better reflects the communities we serve.”

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