Cedar Rapids/Marion YMCA names new CEO

CEDAR RAPIDS — The YMCA of the Cedar Rapids Metropolitan Area has tapped Cari McCoy as its next president and chief executive officer.

McCoy was selected following a three-month, nationwide search by the organization’s board of directors to replace former CEO Bob Carlson, who last fall announced his intent to retire after more than three decades with the organization.

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“During our search for a new CEO, we looked at candidates from throughout the country, and Cari stood out among the rest,” YMCA board chair Jason Neighbor said in a written statement. “Her energy and vision for the YMCA is exactly what we were looking for in a leader.”

McCoy comes to the role with more than a decade of experience in business strategy and digital marketing. She served most recently as vice president of strategic operations at Van Meter, before which she was CEO of the e-commerce company Clickstop.

She currently holds several community roles, as well, with leadership positions at groups such as the Marion Economic Development Corp., the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance workforce innovation council and ImpactCR.

She will assume her role as CEO of the Cedar Rapids/Marion YMCA as of Jan. 29.

“It is a privilege to join the Cedar Rapids Metro YMCA family,” McCoy said in a prepared statement. “Its mission of strengthening individuals, families and communities through a healthy spirit, mind and body resonates deeply with me, and … I look forward to partnering with staff, volunteers and community leaders to ensure the YMCA continues to be a place where everyone can thrive.”

Shortly into McCoy’s tenure, the organization is set to substantially expand its footprint through the spring opening of the new Prairie Summit YMCA in collaboration with the College Community School District.

The wellness center and swimming pool will sit just west of Prairie Heights Elementary School along 76th Avenue SW. It is supported by a $43 million bond approved in 2023 by voters within the College Community School District.

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Construction on the project began in late 2024, and the facility is expected to open later this year. It will include competition and recreation pools, in addition to two competition basketball courts, a walking track, cardio fitness space and more.

The site will join the YMCA’s existing facilities catalog, which includes locations in Marion and Cedar Rapids and the Camp Wapsie site near Coggon.

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