Press Release: Darien YMCA Welcomes Kate Gregory as Development Director

Darien YMCA Welcomes Kate Gregory as

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Development Director

DARIEN, Conn. - September 16, 2026 - The Darien YMCA is pleased to announce the appointment of Kate Gregory as its new Development Director. A longtime Darien resident with more than 20 years of experience in fundraising, corporate relations and strategic partnerships, Gregory brings extensive expertise and a strong personal connection to the community and the Y.

Gregory joins the Darien YMCA from New York University's Stern School of Business, where she served as Senior Director of Corporate Relations. In that role, she led corporate fundraising initiatives, managed a giving portfolio of more than $600,000 and cultivated relationships with more than 80 corporate partners and a network of over 110,000 alumni.

"Kate's experience building meaningful partnerships, combined with her deep connection to Darien and the YMCA, makes her an outstanding addition to our leadership team," said Jennifer Carcieri, CEO of the Darien YMCA. "We are excited to welcome her and look forward to the impact she will have as we continue strengthening philanthropic support for our mission and the community we serve."

Before joining NYU Stern, Gregory served as Manager of Strategic Development for the Entertainment Industry Foundation. There, she developed corporate partnerships and helped create national campaigns and events that generated awareness and raised approximately $30 million annually in support of a variety of health and social causes.

Earlier in her career, Gregory worked in business development at Saks Fifth Avenue, where she helped develop and execute cause-marketing programs with charitable organizations across 62 stores.

"I am thrilled to join the Darien YMCA and contribute to an organization that means so much to my family and our community," said Gregory. "I look forward to building strong relationships with our donors, partners and neighbors while helping advance the Y's mission and expand its impact."

Gregory earned a bachelor's degree in English from Bryn Mawr College and a master's degree in English Education from New York University. Her commitment to the community extends beyond her professional work. She serves on the boards of A Better Chance, where the Gregory family also serves as a host family, and The Darien Depot Youth Center.

Gregory grew up in Darien and currently lives in town with her family, who are active members of the Darien YMCA.

About the Darien YMCA

The Darien YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Through programs, services and partnerships, the Y provides opportunities for individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds to learn, grow and thrive.

For more information about the Darien YMCA, visit darien-ymca.org.