The YWCA of Western New York (“YWCA WNY”) announced Michelle Sawyers as its new Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), effective April 1, 2024. Sawyers was selected following a rigorous, nationwide search led by executive search firm TalentRise. YWCA WNY announced in September 2023 that its current CEO, Jill Ann Robbins-Jabine, was preparing to retire after nearly 10 years of service.
“I am honored to be selected as the new CEO of YWCA WNY and look forward to taking over the reins,” said Sawyers. “I have dedicated my career to positively impacting our community and am grateful for the opportunity to lead an organization focused on eliminating racism, empowering women, serving others, and advancing social justice.”
In her most recent role, Sawyers served as Chief Program Officer of the Buffalo Urban League, where she oversaw the organization’s housing services, youth education services, and community, economic, and workforce development initiatives. She began her career in higher education, supporting Erie Community College’s workforce development efforts and working in admissions/advising and student services at SUNY Buffalo State. Her professional experience also includes roles at the Service Collaborative of Western New York, Medaille University, Say Yes to Education, and Hillside Family of Agencies.
“Michelle’s extensive experience in nonprofit operations—coupled with her leadership acumen, community involvement, and ability to build partnerships—makes her the ideal person to further YWCA WNY’s mission,” said Pete Petrella, TalentRise Practice Leader.
“We are confident that under Michelle’s leadership and guidance, the future of YWCA WNY is bright and well-focused to continue its mission and serving its community,” said Jessica Copeland, YWCA Board Chair. “We thank Jill for her decade of service to the organization and wish her the best in her retirement.”
Sawyers graduated from SUNY Buffalo State with a Bachelor of Arts in history and a Master of Science in higher education.
About TalentRise
TalentRise is an executive search and talent management consulting firm that is part of the Aleron Group of companies headquartered in Buffalo, New York. An industry player since 2008, TalentRise provides flexible, customized leadership and organizational solutions to startup and mid-market employers experiencing high growth, industry disruption, or business transformation. TalentRise serves clients primarily in technology, professional services, healthcare, non-profit, consumer and industrial manufacturing, financial services, and retail.
About YWCA Western New York
Founded in 1870, the YWCA of Western New York (YWCA WNY) supports over 3,400 women, children, and families annually and is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all. Delivered through both anti-racism and trauma-informed lenses, YWCA WNY programs empower women to attain self-sufficiency, seniors to secure safe, affordable housing that keeps them connected to the community, and children and youth to grow in healthy, nurturing, and enriched environments.
