05/19/2026
🎉 We are thrilled to share exciting news as we proudly announce the promotion of two exceptional leaders from within our agency: Rachael Gardner as Vice President of Programs and Taryn Payne as Vice President of Facility Operations. These two dedicated individuals have stepped into new leadership roles after years of unwavering service, commitment, and heart.
At YWCA, we believe deeply in cultivating a culture of growth, empowerment, and opportunity. We are proud to champion a growth mindset, not only in the communities we serve, but within our own walls. We know that when people are supported, encouraged, and given opportunities to lead, incredible things happen. There is something especially meaningful about watching talented individuals grow within our organization, continue to show up day after day with passion and purpose, and then step confidently into new opportunities to make an even greater impact.
These promotions are a reflection of the strength, dedication, and leadership that Rachael and Taryn have already demonstrated over many years. They have stood alongside us through challenges, moments of change, and seasons of growth. They have continued to lead with compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. We are honored to watch them do so in these new capacities.
✨ Meet Rachael Gardner, our new Vice President of Programs
Rachael is a social worker who has been serving our community for 21 years, bringing both expertise and extraordinary compassion to every role she has held. She earned her undergraduate degree from Bowling Green State University, her master’s degree from The University of Toledo, and achieved her LISW licensure two years ago.
Rachael joined the YWCA in June 2020 as Shelter Director, and only months later, in October 2020, stepped in to lead the R**e Crisis Center during a critical period when VOCA funding cuts deeply impacted victim services. Throughout her six years with our agency and in her current role as Director of Victim Services, Rachael has continually shown what mission-driven leadership looks like.
Throughout her time with YWCA, Taryn has been a steady and trusted leader whose commitment to our mission has strengthened the foundation that enables our work to flourish.
Rachael shared: "My life reflects the impact of being invested in; when people are supported and resourced, they rise beyond their circumstances and strengthen the very communities that believed in them. I draw inspiration from leaders like Bryan Stevenson and RBG, people who absolutely refuse to quit, give up, or become complacent about making the world a better place."
She added: "Above all else, I believe in who we are and what we do at the YWCA. I am honored to step into the role of VP of Programs and to support our team in shaping our tomorrow together."
✨ Meet Taryn Payne, our new Vice President of Facility Operations
Taryn received her degree from Lourdes University and first joined the YWCA in August 2009 as Finance Director. Over the last 16 years, she has become an integral part of our organization, helping guide operational and financial stewardship while serving in multiple leadership capacities. Most recently, Taryn has served as our Chief Financial Officer, bringing consistency, expertise, and dedication to her work.
Taryn shared: "I have been honored to be part of such a vital organization within our community for the past 16 years and am very excited to serve as the VP of Operations moving forward."
Throughout her time with YWCA, Taryn has been a steady and trusted leader whose commitment to our mission has helped strengthen the foundation that allows our work to flourish.
Today, we celebrate investment in people, leadership that grows from within, and the incredible individuals who continue to choose this mission every day. We are immensely proud, deeply grateful, and incredibly honored to have leaders like Rachael and Taryn helping shape the future of our organization.
These promotions reflect the strength, dedication, and leadership that Rachael and Taryn have already demonstrated over many years. They have stood alongside us through challenges, moments of change, and seasons of growth. They have continued to lead with compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to our mission. Now we are honored to watch them do so in these new capacities.
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