Grand Island YMCA Names Chad Knight as new CEO

The Grand Island YMCA has named Chad Knight as its new Chief Executive Officer. Selected by the Y’s Board of Directors following an extensive national search, Knight will succeed Cara Lemburg, who stepped down in August to resume her teaching career. In his new role, Knight will be responsible for taking the lead on the Y’s upcoming goals, including increasing membership and fundraising, as well as expansion of the programs it provides to the community. 

Board President Jaye Monter said: “During our search for a new CEO, we looked at a number of well-qualified candidates, but Knight stood out among the rest. His energy and vision for the Grand Island YMCA are exactly what we were looking for in a leader. With Knight’s 25 years of progressive leadership experience as CEO of the YMCA of Southwest Kansas and his passion for the YMCA, we are convinced that the Grand Island YMCA will have fantastic leadership for years to come.” 

 “I am thrilled to join the Grand Island YMCA family and the Grand Island Community,” said Knight. “I see the YMCA not just as a place—it’s a movement of hope, healing, and human potential. That belief drives me daily to pursue excellence, listen deeply, act courageously, and serve others with unwavering commitment. My goal is to build not only strong teams and programs, but also strong people—because when lives are transformed, communities are strengthened.”