Salina Family YMCA Appoints Chris Lehecka as New CEO, Plans for Future Development

The Salina Family YMCA has announced that Chris Lehecka will take over as its new president and chief executive officer, effective September 1st, 2024. The board of directors made the announcement on Thursday, expressing confidence that Lehecka will help elevate the YMCA’s relevancy and value in the Salina region.

Lehecka, who has served as the Associate Executive Director of the Salina Family YMCA since September 2023, succeeds Angie Lassley, who moved on to become COO at the YMCA of Greater Kansas City in July. Lehecka’s promotion comes with high praise from the board. “I believe that the YMCA is getting a young man that can lead the organization into the future. He comes with tremendous drive and a huge heart for the people we serve,” said Pastor Allen Smith, chair of the Salina YMCA’s board of directors. “Chris is one of the up-and-coming stars of our community.”

Salina311 spoke with Lehecka about his new role, and he shared his enthusiasm for the future of the YMCA. "As a member, staff, volunteer, or partner, the YMCA is an incredible community to be part of. I’m excited to continue the great work and help create even more opportunities for people to engage in wellness, enrich their lives, and invest in the future of our youth," Lehecka said.

Lehecka’s experience is diverse and deeply rooted in community service. He holds an undergraduate degree in Sociology/Criminology from Kansas State University and a Master's of Professional Studies in Organizational Leadership from Fort Hays State University. Before joining the YMCA, he worked at the Greater Salina Community Foundation, where he built relationships with donors and organizations to support community initiatives. Lehecka’s background also includes a strong passion for basketball; he has coached high school and collegiate women’s teams at Kansas Wesleyan University and Brown Mackie College, and he continues to officiate games for the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA).

Lehecka’s personal connection to the YMCA began in his youth, as he credits the Wichita YMCA for playing a significant role in his development. “I am deeply passionate about developing people and teams, and I thrive on helping individuals and groups reach their full potential. At the YMCA, this passion aligns perfectly with our mission to promote a healthy spirit, mind, and body,” Lehecka stated. “I am truly honored and grateful to be offered the CEO position. The support from our staff, members, and the board inspires me to embrace any challenge and serve to advance our mission of nurturing holistic well-being through Christian values at the YMCA.”

Lehecka is married to Tawni and is the proud father of three children: Skylar (9), Cooper (7), and Sydney (2). His leadership is expected to bring a renewed focus on community engagement, fundraising, and organizational growth to the Salina Family YMCA.