Mary Burns
WEST CHESTER — The YMCA of Greater Brandywine, a leading Chester County nonprofit charity dedicated to strengthening the foundations of the community, announced the appointment of Mary Burns to the position of chief development officer.
“With Mary joining our Y family, sharing her leadership, vision and direction, we will be able to leverage our resources for an even greater impact on Chester County and continue to advance the Y’s mission,” said Denise Day, CEO of the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. “As we enter 2016, we look forward to continuing our strong support of youth and families in Chester County with a deeper, fully-seasoned development team. We are thrilled to have her here.”
Burns hails from the Greater Burlington YMCA, where she had served as president and CEO since 2008 and established a firm reputation for fundraising. She first joined the Y in 1986, rising through the ranks to hold a host of senior level positions during her nearly 30-year career.
“When you think about the impact that over 2,000 YMCAs can have on people’s lives, it’s like, ‘What other organization can you work for?’” Burns said.
Burns holds a bachelor’s degree in human services from Springfield College in Vermont and had been active on numerous not for profit boards as well as private and public boards.
Joe Tankle, who has served in the chief development post since 2015, will continue his 25-year career with the Y, now as director of planned giving.
“Planned giving will play a critical role in serving the Y in perpetuity,” Day said. “Joe’s knowledge of our community, dedication and relationships make him perfect for this, and for helping to position us well for this next chapter.”
