NEW HANOVER COUNTY — The CEO of the YWCA Lower Cape Fear announced her retirement on Tuesday.
Velva Jenkins has led the YWCA Lower Cape Fear since August 2019, after serving as interim CEO; she will vacate the position on Jan. 31, 2026.
In a press release, Jenkins wrote she never anticipated working full-time again after retiring from Brunswick Community College in 2018 but realized there was “much work to be done” at the YWCA.
“Upon accepting the opportunity to lead this remarkable organization, my passion for empowering women blossomed in ways I had only hoped for,” Jenkins wrote.
During her tenure, Jenkins guided the YWCA through the Covid-19 pandemic, expanded outreach programs and launched a capital campaign securing $6 million in support.
“While we will greatly miss Velva’s leadership, the board fully supports her decision and celebrates this well-deserved next chapter,” Janeé L. Folston, board chair of the YWCA Lower Cape Fear Board of Directors, wrote in a press release. “Under her guidance, the YWCA Lower Cape Fear stands strong, stable, and well-positioned to continue advancing our mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.”
The board of directors has engaged Moss + Ross to assist with the search for the next CEO. The search process is currently underway; interested candidates or nominators may contact Carrie Gray, director of executive search: 919-255-2167.
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