Meet The Team
Our leaders, comprising experienced professionals and passionate community advocates, are committed to fostering a nurturing environment for personal growth, healthy living, and social responsibility. Get to know the individuals whose vision and expertise drive our mission forward, ensuring that the YMCA remains a beacon of support and inspiration for all.
Matthew Skaarup
Chief Executive Officer
Matt Skaarup brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to community service as the CEO of the YMCA of Greenwich. Originally from the Albany, NY area, Matt embarked on his nonprofit career in Northern California, focusing on fundraising initiatives. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Manhattan College, providing him with a solid foundation in leadership and organizational management.
Matt’s YMCA journey began over a decade ago at the Capital District YMCA in Albany, where he started as a facility coordinator at the Bethlehem branch. His dedication and leadership were quickly recognized, leading to roles of increasing responsibility. Matt played a pivotal role in the opening and success of the Greene County YMCA, where he served as Director of Membership and Wellness before advancing to Operations Director and ultimately being appointed as Executive Director for Guilderland in 2016.
In 2022, Matt joined the YMCA of Greenwich as CEO, assuming leadership during a critical post-pandemic period. Since his arrival, Matt has spearheaded initiatives to grow membership, strengthen donor relations, and align the Y’s programs with the evolving needs of the Greenwich community. Under his guidance, the YMCA of Greenwich has expanded its team, launched new community programs, and charted a path of growth and sustainability.
When Matt isn’t at the YMCA, he travels to Altamont, NY, and Cape Cod, Massachusetts to see his wife, Lisa, and tend his garden.
Nate Smith
Vice President of Operations
Nate Smith’s journey with the YMCA began early, having first learned to swim at his local community Y. Over the past 15 years, he has dedicated himself to working in various positions at YMCAs across the country, gaining extensive experience and a deep understanding of the organization’s mission and values. Currently, Nate serves as the Vice-President of Operations, where he oversees a wide range of programs and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of members and the broader community.
Nate’s career with the Y has been incredibly rewarding, allowing him to witness firsthand the positive impact of Y programs on individuals and families. From managing youth recreation programs and childcare services to leading community outreach efforts, he has been committed to ensuring that the YMCA remains a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.
Outside of work, Nate enjoys hiking and exploring the outdoors with his wife and son.
Jodi FitzGerald
Senior Director of Member Experience
Jodi has a wealth of experience in business management, customer experience, and team building, along with a lifelong passion for fitness and healthy living. Her extensive background in retail and merchandising has given her expertise in understanding customer needs and devising creative solutions to meet them.
Having belonged to many fitness centers around the country, she has a deep understanding of health club operations and membership needs. Jodi is devoted to volunteer work and helping those less fortunate, with a special place in her heart for seniors. After moving back to the tri-state area, she knew she wanted to work for a non-profit organization.
Kelley Gordon-Minott
Senior Director of Youth Development
Kelley Gordon-Minott, a native of Norwalk, CT, brings a wealth of experience in childcare and youth development spanning 28 years. She holds a BA in English from the University of Tampa in Tampa, FL, and a Master’s in the Art of Teaching (MAT) from Sacred Heart University. Kelley’s professional journey includes serving as a high school English teacher and varsity cheerleading coach before transitioning to nonprofit leadership.
For nearly a decade, Kelley made a significant impact at the Port Chester Carver Center, where she served as the Director of Teen Programming and created the Carver Scholars Program. Her passion for empowering youth and young adults through education, exposure, and mindset development is reflected in her holistic approach to personal growth, emphasizing self-awareness, self-advocacy, and skill development. Kelley is deeply committed to equipping young people with the tools they need to lead fulfilling lives.
Outside of work, Kelley cherishes time with her two boys, aged 4 and 16, and finds joy in being active outdoors, exploring music and dance of all genres, and seeking opportunities for adventure.
Louise Varricchio
Senior Director of People & Culture
Before joining the YMCA of Greenwich, Louise dedicated 25 years to nonprofit HR management across NYC, Westchester, and Fairfield Counties. Her career includes impactful roles at a private foundation supporting environmental conservation, medical research, and poverty alleviation initiatives. Additionally, Louise contributed over a decade to a human services organization, providing vital support like permanent housing, educational services, and employment assistance to homeless individuals, families, and those managing HIV/AIDS and mental health challenges.
Louise also brings seven years of experience from the home health care sector, serving communities in Yonkers and White Plains, NY. Beyond her professional commitments, she enjoys unwinding at her cottage in Madison, CT, where she indulges in reading, beach relaxation, and quality time spent entertaining and connecting with family and friends.
Directors & Managers
Julia Borges
Director of Camp & Childcare
Julia Borges joins the Greenwich Y with over a decade of experience in youth recreation programs, including childcare, specializing in aquatics training and program development. She brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role, driven by a passion for nurturing young minds and fostering a love for physical activity and learning.
Julia’s extensive background includes serving as a camp operations and program director, where she honed her skills in creating dynamic, engaging, and educational programs for children of all ages. Her ability to design programs that challenge kids to think critically, act compassionately, and explore their creativity has made her a standout in the field. At the Greenwich Y, Julia has successfully led the opening of the new after-school program, providing a safe and stimulating environment for children to grow and learn outside of school hours.
Lauren Gaita
Aquatic Programs & Training Manager
Lauren brings a wealth of expertise to her role at the YMCA, holding a BA degree in Communication Studies and boasting over 25 years of experience in aquatics. Her career has been distinguished by her leadership in coaching both adult and youth competitive swim teams across Fairfield and Westchester counties.
Currently, Lauren serves as the Aquatic Programs and Training Manager, where she oversees the development and implementation of comprehensive swim lesson programs for youth and adults alike. These programs include summer camp swim lessons and various aquatic programs such as the Greenwich Swim Club, swim conditioning sessions, and innovative activities like noodle water polo.
Beyond her managerial responsibilities, Lauren is actively involved in fostering community partnerships with local private and public schools to provide essential swim instruction, emphasizing safety through programs like Safety Around Water. Her dedication to promoting water safety and fostering a love for swimming among community members underscores her commitment to the YMCA’s mission of nurturing healthy living and youth development.
Kerri Going
Aquatics Director
Kerri brings over three decades of experience as a Level 4 USA Head Swim Coach and Aquatics Manager to her role as Aquatics Director. With an extensive background in pool operations, Kerri has honed her skills across various locations, demonstrating an exceptional ability to collaborate effectively with diverse staff and members. Her commitment to imparting life-saving water skills aligns seamlessly with the YMCA’s mission, ensuring a safe and enriching aquatic environment for all participants.
A highly accomplished swim professional, Kerri’s credentials include being an ASCA Level 4 USA Swim Coach and a dedicated lifeguard since 1985. Additionally, her experience as a New York State teacher and administrator, combined with her role as a Conservation Wild Educational Leader, highlights her multifaceted expertise and passion for education and conservation. Kerri’s leadership at the YMCA of Greenwich reflects her dedication to fostering a community where everyone can enjoy and benefit from aquatic activities.
Steven Lesperance
Director of Facilities
Steven Lesperance is a goal-oriented leader with extensive experience in facility management and construction. Currently serving as the Director of Facilities at the YMCA of Greenwich, Steven directs multiple vendors in large-scale projects aimed at upgrading and maintaining the historic 108-year-old facility. He manages a substantial budget, focusing on cost efficiency without compromising quality. Steven is adept at developing comprehensive safety protocols and has implemented Emergency Action Plans (EAP) to ensure the safety of all occupants. His role includes overseeing all work orders and scheduling preventative maintenance to extend equipment longevity.
Steven collaborates closely with the CEO and board members to align facility management with the YMCA’s strategic goals. He is responsible for compliance with building codes and health regulations, swiftly addressing corrective actions as needed. With a background in various construction disciplines including HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and carpentry, Steven brings a diverse skill set to his leadership role. He is fluent in French and Haitian Creole, enhancing communication within multicultural settings. Certified as an ALICE trainer and with an OSHA 30 certification, Steven prioritizes safety and security throughout facility operations. Passionate about community service, Steven has volunteered in international missions and local church projects involving construction and maintenance.
Stephen Melvin
Director of Finance
Stephen Melvin, CPA, is the Director of Finance at the YMCA of Greenwich, where he brings over two decades of extensive experience in strategic planning, finance, and corporate development. Known for his expertise in turnaround strategies and performance improvement, Stephen has a proven track record of driving growth and profitability across various sectors, including education, healthcare, real estate, and public accounting. His analytical skills and leadership abilities have been instrumental in successfully leading reorganizations, capital raising, and cost reduction initiatives.
Before joining the YMCA of Greenwich, Stephen served as Principal at CFO Management Services, LLC, where he provided comprehensive financial management support to diverse industries. His charismatic personality and strong leadership have made him a mentor and team builder, fostering a culture of teamwork and excellence. Beyond his professional achievements, Stephen is a daily swimmer and an avid user of the YMCA’s pools and other amenities, embodying the healthy lifestyle that the organization promotes.
Dakota O'Brien
Director of Marketing & Communications
Graduating from Brooklyn College with a BA in Journalism, Dakota began her career journey at Corofy, a NYC startup specializing in digital real estate data and education. Over five years, she ascended from a content creation intern to the role of Director of Marketing and Operations. In this capacity, Dakota collaborated closely with prominent brokers and agents, devising strategies to enhance brand visibility through websites, social media, and advertising initiatives.
Originally from Long Island, NY, Dakota relocated to Connecticut in 2022 with a goal to transition from remote work to a more hands-on role. This ambition led her to join the YMCA of Greenwich as the Marketing and Financial Development Manager. Embracing the nonprofit sector, Dakota discovered a newfound passion for nonprofit marketing and fundraising, ultimately assuming the role of Director of Marketing and Communications. In her current position, Dakota spearheads initiatives to amplify the YMCA’s mission and impact, leveraging her expertise to drive community engagement and support vital fundraising efforts.
In her free time, Dakota enjoys traveling, cooking, and spending time outdoors.
Manuel Salcedo
Membership Relations Manager
Manuel Salcedo joined the YMCA of Greenwich in 2016, following a distinguished four-year tour in the United States Marine Corps. During his time in the USMC, Manuel served as a diesel mechanic in an artillery unit, taking on significant responsibilities as a fireteam leader, squad leader, and maintenance floor chief for a team of 21 Marines. The values and skills he honed during his military service have become a core part of his identity, seamlessly transitioning to his role at the YMCA of Greenwich.
Welcomed into the Greenwich Y community as part of the Front Desk membership team, Manuel has spent nearly a decade engaging with members and guests, fostering community partnerships, promoting financial assistance for families in need, and supporting various YMCA, town, and partner events. Now serving as a manager, he remains continually inspired by the collective effort of the Greenwich Y in providing inclusive programs and facilities for all.
Manuel is profoundly grateful to continue his service as a team member at the Greenwich Y, cherishing the sense of belonging and community it offers. He is dedicated to repaying the organization by contributing to its mission and supporting its vision of inclusivity and community enrichment.
Aquatic Head Coaches & Leadership
Patrick Kennedy
Head Coach of The Greenwich Marlins Swim Team
Patrick comes to the Greenwich YMCA from Dallas, Texas where he was the Head Senior Coach at Texas Ford Aquatics in Frisco, Texas. Prior to joining TFA, he was the Assistant Head Coach at Metroplex Aquatics in Allen,Texas, and Senior Coach at City of Plano Swimmers in Plano, Texas.
Patrick has coached swimmers to Top 100 All-Time in age group rankings, Texas State Champions, Futures, Junior National and Olympic Trial qualifiers.
Patrick swam for City of Plano Swimmers and Plano Senior High School. While on COPS, he was a multiple time TAGS finalist and NJO qualifier in the 100 and 200 breaststroke. He was also a Texas State Record holder in the 15-16 boys 200 freestyle relay. Patrick graduated from the University of Arkansas where he competed for the Razorbacks for 4 years. He is still an active competitor in Masters swimming, having finished 2nd in the 200 meter breaststroke and 3rd in the 100 meter breaststroke at the 2017 USMS National Championship. In 2019, Patrick won the “Go the Distance” National Championship for the 45-49 age group.
Patrick’s coaching philosophy is one of team excellence through creating a family-like culture where athletes work together through goal setting, personal accountability, and high standards to achieve excellence.
Dylan Korn
Head Coach of The Greenwich Marlins Diving Team
For nearly 15 years, Dylan has played a pivotal role in the evolution of the Marlins Diving Club, guiding it from its inception to its current status as a nationally renowned program. Under his leadership as head coach, the Marlins Diving Club consistently produces some of the nation’s top divers while also introducing newcomers to the sport. Dylan’s dedication and expertise have afforded him the privilege of coaching athletes across various levels, from local competitions to prestigious international events.
As head coach, Dylan’s career highlights include coaching athletes who have represented Team USA at the 2018 FINA Grand Prix meet in Rostock, Germany, as well as mentoring Olympic hopefuls during Olympic Trials. Beyond competitive success, Dylan finds profound fulfillment in his role by imparting invaluable life lessons to his athletes and nurturing their personal growth through the sport of diving.
Ulmis Iordache
Head Coach of The Greenwich Aquatics Water Polo Team
Ulmis started the Greenwich Aquatics program in 2007 and has been leading it for the last 15 years. He began playing water polo at age 5 in Bucharest and played for C.S. Steaua Bucharest from 1997 to 1999, achieving several championships and cup wins. From 2000 to 2002, Ulmis played for LER Steaua, earning multiple titles and playing on the Romanian National Team in European Championship qualifiers and the Belcan Cup.
Since 2009, Ulmis has been the head coach of the Brunswick High School Boys team, transforming it into a national powerhouse. He also coaches the Greenwich Academy High School Girls team, a role he has held since 2016. Ulmis lives in Westport with his wife, a diving coach at Yale, and their two sons who also play water polo.
Kim Tierney Wang
Director of Greenwich Aquatics Water Polo Team
Kim is a founder and director of Greenwich Aquatics, starting in 2007, and has been the director of operations for the last 15 years.
An All-American at Bucknell University from 1995 to 1997, Kim was team captain in 1997 and lead scorer all four years, with over 500 career goals. At Columbia University, she was a standout player, earning First Team New York Division All-Conference honors and the Collegiate All-Academic Team in 2002 and 2003, and was named MVP of the New York Division in 2003.
Kim was a member of the USA Olympic Festival Team in 1994 and the first female to join the boys’ Greenwich High Water Polo Team. She played for the New York Athletic Club women’s team starting in 2002 and was inducted into the Greenwich Aquatics Hall of Fame in 2006. Kim holds a BA from Bucknell and an MA & EdM from Columbia University. She lives in Greenwich with her husband and three children, all of whom play water polo.