New Aquatics Director On Deck At YMCA Of Metro North

PEABODY, MA — The YMCA of Metro North is looking to expand its swim lessons and other pool activities under the leadership of new association aquatics director Jessica Murray.

The YMCA said in the fall Murray will help lead that expansion, as well as enhance quality control systems, safety protocols, and lifeguard training in addition to guiding the YMCA of Metro North's annual Water Smart is Water Safe campaign.

"She comes with a wealth of knowledge and experience in molding a culture of success, member satisfaction, and safety in the water," YMCA of Metro North President and CEO Kathleen Walsh said. "Our members and staff are getting a phenomenal professional, teacher and role model to lead the expansion of our signature programs.

"We are such lucky to have her on the team."

Murray previously led the aquatics department at the YMCA in Lawrence where she managed more than 50 employees. Her background includes the development of emergency action plans, leading YMCA safety committees, teaching safety CPR/First Aid training and directing lifeguard courses.

At the YMCA, she oversaw the opening of two seasonal pools in Saugus and Peabody and hired more than 30 season lifeguards.

"I am thrilled to take on this important work and lean into this newly created association role," she said. "I look forward to enhancing our aquatics programs and safety training and continue the stellar work being done at the YMCA of Metro North."

She earned a degree in kinesiology from San Diego State University and rowed for their Division 1 Crew Team. She later worked as a personal trainer and head coach for the Lowell High School crew team.

She still volunteers her time organizing local regattas in the Lowell area where she resides.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)