KING, N.C. - Beginning on May 19, Chris Chunn will become the new Executive Director of the Stokes Family YMCA. A native of King and West Stokes High School alum, Chunn's Y journey began 15 years ago at the Stokes Family YMCA. Over the years, he has served in a variety of leadership roles. Most recently, he has led the Fulton Family YMCA along with the Youth Development Branch. His passion for the YMCA and its Mission continues to drive his commitment to strengthening the communities in which the Y serves.
"I am thrilled to be returning to the Stokes Family YMCA, the same place my career began 15 years ago,” said Chunn. “The Stokes Family YMCA has long been a cornerstone of Stokes County, and I am honored to lead the branch into its next chapter. I am truly appreciative of the YMCA's Association Leadership and the Stokes Family YMCA Board of Advisors for giving me the opportunity to serve the residents of Stokes County. I look forward to reconnecting with familiar faces and building new relationships with community members throughout Danbury, Walnut Cove, King, and beyond."
Derek Edwards, the current Executive Director of the Stokes Family YMCA, will be retiring this month after 14 years of service.
Edwards came to the YMCA in 2012 from NewBridge Bank. His cause-driven leadership and passion for the Mission are evident to all who encounter him. His contributions to the Stokes Y and the YMCA of Northwest North Carolina are numerous, including his engagement in the Stokes community, his focus on operational excellence, and his mantra of ‘Safety, Cleanliness and Friendliness’ which has become branch culture. Edwards is leaving the Stokes YMCA in a great place, thanks to his leadership.
Chunn is looking forward to carrying on Edwards’ ‘Safety, Cleanliness and Friendliness’ mantra as he begins the next chapter of the Stokes Family YMCA.
Angelica Leonides will become the new Executive Director of the Fulton Family YMCA and remain as the Literacy Director. Angelica has been with the YMCA for over 10 years, beginning as a part-time membership staff at the Fulton Family YMCA. In November 2023, she transitioned into her current role as Literacy Director. Angelica has had the opportunity to serve in multiple leadership roles that have shaped her into a stronger, more compassionate leader. These experiences have helped Angelica discover her true passion for serving others—and the YMCA has been the place where she's been able to live out that purpose every day.