News
May 9, 2019YWCA of the Greater Capital Region, INC. Board of Directors Announcement of Executive Director’s Departure
The Board of Directors of YWCA of the Greater Capital Region (YWCA-GCR) announces the departure of Executive Director, Daquetta Jones. After over five years at YWCA-GCR, Jones has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner for Administration with New York State Civil Service Department starting on June 10, 2019. She will remain Executive Director of YWCA of the Greater Capital Region until May 31, 2019.
“YWCA-GCR is deeply grateful for Daquetta’s leadership and contributions to our mission, empowering women and eliminating racism, and what better way to honor this shared commitment than for one of our own to qualify for a high-level appointment in State Government,” said YWCA-GCR Board President Bridget McGivern. ”Daquetta continues to be a role model, and this opportunity is representative of the strides we have made while working together. We applaud our sister as she moves on to her new position in the public sector and chapter in her life.”
During her leadership, YWCA-GCR has seen significant growth in programs and community impact and partnerships. With over 10 years of leadership and 18 years of human services experience, Jones brought charisma, courage and dedication to the role, helping to further the organization’s mission and serve its local communities and women in need. Jones’ work has been acknowledged locally and regionally; she will be honored as a Woman of Excellence in Business Development by the Capital Region Chamber’s Women Business Council on May 30th.
”It has been the most rewarding and fulfilling opportunity to lead YWCA-GCR. It has completely changed my life and every day in the role as Executive Director, I know we are changing lives. I am grateful to the search committee that selected me in 2013 and believed in my passion, experience and leadership to take the organization to the next level, as a first time Executive Director,” said Daquetta Jones. The services and programs YWCA-GCR provides are necessary and I am a witness of its impacts on those we serve and the community. These beautiful years are etched in my memory, so I can never forget YWCA-GCR. My success would not be possible without my empowering and dedicated team, board and our donors/friends/supporters. I will forever be thankful for this opportunity, the support we received during my tenure and being a part of a National and Global Women’s movement. To my board, thank you for treating me with heart and mission. This is an overwhelming time for us all, yet, this demonstrates the strength in YW empowering women to advance. ”
Since being appointed as Executive Director in December 2013, Jones has acted as the face of YWCA-GCR and committed herself to empowering all who walk through its doors. From sitting on numerous boards and committees within the community to participating in panels and speaking engagements, she has helped further the organization’s values locally and statewide.
The board has named Starletta Smith as the Interim Executive Director to ensure a smooth transition over the coming months. Effective June 10, 2019, Smith will step into the interim role. Smith has worked at YWCA-GCR for over a decade; the last 8 years as the Director of Transitional Housing and Family Services. Jones is confident in Smith’s ability to lead the organization.
