YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester Celebrates Shannon Casey as 2026 Rising Star – 40 Under 40 Honoree

White Plains, NY — The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester is proud to announce that Shannon Casey, Director of Camp and Teen Services, has been named one of the Business Council of Westchester’s 2026 Rising Stars – 40 Under 40. This distinguished recognition honors emerging leaders who demonstrate professional excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to making a positive impact in their communities.

Formerly known as Shannon Sullivan, Casey has become a driving force behind the YMCA’s youth development efforts throughout the region. In her role, she oversees camp and teen programming, including Summer Camp, Teen Leaders, and Youth and Government—creating opportunities for young people to develop confidence, leadership skills, civic engagement, and a strong sense of purpose.

One of Shannon’s most notable accomplishments has been the significant growth of the YMCA’s Youth and Government program, expanding participation from 40 to more than 100 teens in just two years. Through her leadership, more young people have gained access to transformative experiences that build leadership skills and inspire active involvement in their communities.

Shannon’s impact extends beyond Westchester. In 2025, she was selected as one of only 20 YMCA professionals nationwide to participate in the Y-USA Teen Thought Leader Cohort, a national initiative bringing together leaders from across the country to shape the future of teen programming. As part of this work, Shannon is helping develop leading practices focused on civic engagement and elevating youth voice to strengthen communities for the next generation.

Her commitment to youth leadership is also reflected through her representation of New York State at the YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs in Washington, D.C., where she mentors and supports teens participating in national civic engagement experiences.

Shannon’s leadership has also been evident during times of challenge. Following severe storm damage to YMCA Camp Combe in 2023, she played a pivotal role in helping restore operations and ensure families continued to have access to safe, meaningful summer experiences. Her ability to lead with resilience, communicate with families, and support staff helped preserve a program that serves hundreds of youth each year.

This latest recognition adds to an impressive list of honors celebrating Shannon’s leadership and service:

2023 Wunderkind by Westchester Magazine
2024 North East YMCA Camp Conference Rising Star
2025 Hudson Valley Young Professional of the Year

Beyond her professional role, Shannon remains deeply committed to community involvement. She serves as a Youth Board Member for the Putnam County Youth Bureau, a board member with Hudson Valley Gateway Chamber Young Professionals, and Hudson Valley Leisure Services Association, and volunteers as a mentor and facilitator supporting youth and young adults.

“Shannon leads with authenticity, purpose, and an unwavering belief in the potential of young people,” said Bonnie Fogarty, Executive Director of the YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester. “She builds relationships that help youth feel seen, valued, and empowered. Through her leadership, young people are finding their voice and growing into engaged leaders in their communities. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved recognition.”

The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester congratulates Shannon Casey on this outstanding achievement and celebrates her continued dedication to creating opportunities that strengthen youth, families, and communities across our region.

About the YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester
The YMCA of Central and Northern Westchester is a leading nonprofit organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Through a wide range of programs and services, the YMCA empowers youth to learn, grow, and thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment. ymca-cnw.org/