YWCA Lancaster welcomed seven new members to the board of directors. The new members will serve three-year terms. The mission of the agency is to eliminate racism and empower women.

The elected members were selected among dozens of community business and civic leaders referred for the openings this year. These individuals will join the leaders who are already part of the board to guide the agency in the coming year.

Assuming the role of chair of the board on Dec. 10, 2020, was Deborah Wilson Gadsden, the first black woman to lead the board since its existence. She has served as a member of the board, including the mission and executive committees, since 2014.

New board members include Dr. Hyasmine Charles, Penn Medicine, Lancaster General, physician at Women's Specialty Center; Sally Chuquimia, Church World Service, immigration paralegal; Aimee Deraco, YDOP COO; Jasmine Kraybill, Berkshire Hathaway, realtor and Lancaster City Human Relations Commission; Dr. Kathryn Sandoe, LCSWMA, communications director; Dr. Latinia Shell, therapist and entrepreneur; and Lisa Simmons, AHF Products.

Nominations for the board of directors can be made year-round. Selections are made in December. Readers may visit https://ywcalancaster.org/about/team for details.