MEET YOUR YMCA LEADERS
Staff Leadership
The staff and volunteer leadership of the YMCA of Grand Forks work tirelessly every day to nurture the potential of kids, improve our communities health and well-being, give back and support our neighbors.
Debbie Thompson
President/CEO
A native of Grand Forks, Deb is a graduate of the University of North Dakota,with a Bachelor of Science in Social Work, and minor’s in Criminal Justice, Psychology, and Early Childhood. While attending UND, Deb completed her volunteer requirements with the YMCA Youth Department. Upon completion, Deb joined the YMCA staff in December, 1984. After graduating from UND in 1987, Deb began her full-time career as theYMCA Child Care Director. In March,2000, Deb became the President/CEO. She is married with two children.
Bob McWilliams
Chief Operating Officer
A native of Grand Forks, Bob attended Mayville State University on a basketball scholarship, completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Recreation Aministration from the University of North Dakota.Bob worked at the Y in various positions while attending UND. He was hired full-time as Membership Director in 1997, assuming his role as Chief Operating Officer in 2000. Bob is married with 2 children.
Robert Devine
Buildings & Grounds Director
Rob was raised in Manvel, after graduating from Oslo Public High School. In 1987, he joined The USAF Working as an Aerospace Flight Engineer on Lockheed C5A/B, C141B, C130. While on active duty, he attained an associate’s degree in Aerospace Flight Engineer Operation and Industrial Technology. In 1997, Rob separated from the USAF honorably/decorated Gulf War Veteran. Currently Rob is working on completing his degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix, and holds certification in Life Guard, CPR, First Aid, Steam Plant Engineering, Minnesota back-flow prevention installation and maintenance, and Certified Pool/Spa Operator. Rob is married and he has two children.
Amy McCann
Youth Development Director
Amy graduated from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management. She has 10 years of previous YMCA experience from Tennessee and California, working in aquatics, youth sports, child care, summer/residential camps, and various youth/teen programs. Amy has been working at the Grand Forks YMCA since 2007. Amy is married with 1 child, with another due!
Karen Medd
Child Care Director
A native of North Dakota, Karen is a graduate of the North Dakota State University, with a Degree in Child Development and Family Relations. Karen began her work at the YMCA in February, 1986 in the Child Care Department as a Supervisor. In April of 2000, Karen assumed her current Director position. Karen is married with 3 children and 2 grandchildren.
Deb Vein
Health and Wellness Director
A native of East Grand Forks, Deb Vein is a graduate of Aaker’s Business College. She has been certified as a Personal Trainer since 1995 through the International Sports Sciences Association. Deb also holds the following certifications: Silver Sneakers MSROM (Muscle Strength & Range of Movement) and Silver Sneakers Cardio Circuit Training, Weight Training for Women through FiTour, and YMCA of the USA Certifications – Principles of Health & Fitness, Strength Training Director, Group Fitness Instructor, Fitness Specialist and Senior Director status. Deb has over 20 years of personal and professional experience in Health and Fitness. She has been employed by the YMCA for over 15 years. Deb is married with 3 children.
Volunteer Leadership
Board of Directors
Kevin Beste
Mike Delisle
James Galloway, Ex-Officio
Arlyce Gibbs
Al Grasser
Wayne Gregoire
Amy Haagenson, Chief Volunteer Officer
Randi Hanson
Stacy Jensen
Kim Kieffer
Sue Kraft
Brian Overby
Courtney Ritterman
Steve Sannes
John Schumacher, Treasurer
Carol Svendson
Scott Swygman, Secretary
Dan Syrup, Vice Chairman
Dwight Thompson
Julie Tunseth
Tracy Uhlir
Board of Trustees
Robert Lander, Chairman of the Trustees
Mary Ann Devig
Dennis Elbert
James Hansen
Brian Kraft
Dave Vaaler
