SHERYL WOODS

PRESIDENT & CEO, YMCA SOUTH FLORIDA, FORT LAUDERDALE

The YMCA of South Florida has more than 200 programs for all ages. Its Family Centers offer classes, fitness facilities, aquatics, camps, events, after-school care and holistic health and wellness programs. It employs more than 1,700, and Woods has been CEO for 15 years. “The YMCA of South Florida has made a significant positive impact on the YMCA movement and our local nonprofit sector through our innovative, entrepreneurial operations,” Woods says. “We’ve pioneered new business product lines, reimagined how we partner with businesses, and created sustained revenue streams by thinking outside the box.”

EDUCATION: University of Idaho (BS), Civics University of Idaho (MS)

IF I WERE GOVERNOR: The first thing on my list would be expanding access to childhood programs like quality education and after-school programs, as well as water safety education.

READING: I recommend Dare to Lead, by Brené Brown, to colleagues. It’s an inspirational book on leadership that provides valuable insights into courage, vulnerability and creating a strong, effective team.

INSPIRING FLORIDIAN: Wayne Huizenga inspires me with his entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen and commitment to our community. He was an innovator and visionary who single-handedly propelled Florida to the forefront of business and sports, leaving a lasting legacy in multiple industries.

WHAT I’VE LEARNED: The importance of community partnerships. Creating long-term and new partnerships impacts an organization in so many ways. Partners become invested in you and want you to be successful. They volunteer, they sponsor events, they donate. Their support and funding enable you to increase services and programs that improve the community, allowing you to expand your reach. Together we can accomplish so much more.