(in photo, Erin Grayson, left, and Amber Shannon, right)
Erin Grayson has joined the YMCA of Greater Syracuse as the Vice President of Human Resources & Development. Erin is a longtime Y professional in the areas of human resources, leadership development, coaching, and a wide range of program development. She has a strong focus on staff development that results in confident, cause-driven leaders.
Erin has most recently been the Leadership Development & Human Resources Director at the Central Connecticut Coast YMCA. While her husband Tim was pursuing his education she spent a short period of time with the YMCA of Greater Syracuse at the East Area YMCA, working with youth and teens.
Prior to Syracuse, Erin was at the Silver Bay YMCA, serving in many different roles for more than a decade. She grew up in Norwich, NY, and spent most of her time at the Norwich Family YMCA. She has a B.A. in Youth Development, with a minor in YMCA Professional Studies, and M.Ed. in Recreation Management from Springfield College. She holds her Organizational Leader Certification from YMCA of the USA, as well as certifications from The Center for Creative Leadership and The Bigger Game Company. Erin is also a Certified Professional through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP). Erin's mission is to help others find personal joy through opportunities that help them see their potential and guide them to be their best self.
Amber Shannon has moved into the role of Associate Executive Director at our Manlius branch. Amber joined the Hal Welsh East Area Family YMCA in 2015 as the Off-Site School Age Childcare Director. Prior to joining the YMCA family, Amber worked in licensed childcare in a variety of roles including her last role as a Center Director. She graduated from The College at Brockport with a B.S. in Physical Education as well as M.S. in Recreation and Leisure Management with a minor in Non-Profit Management.
Amber currently resides in East Syracuse with her husband Jason, their 1 year old McKayla and 2 dogs. They are avid St. Louis Cardinals fans and have only missed 1 opening day game since 2014.
“I am excited to get to know more of our Manlius YMCA staff and members while we work together to strengthen our community!”