DQ Selected for Emerging Global Leaders Institute

DQ is pictured here (left) with Cameron McDowell, Executive Director of YMCA of Greenville's Eastside Family YMCA, who was also in Chicago attending his graduation from another program, the Multicultural Executive Director Institute, also taking place at YMCA of the USA headquarters.

Our Director of Leadership Programs, De-Quan “DQ” Williams, is one of 25 YMCA leaders nominated and accepted into the Emerging Global Leaders Institute (EGLI). This cohort-based experience encourages emerging YMCA leaders to develop the skills to enhance the YMCA’s ability to positively impact our increasingly diverse communities. The leaders have the goal to sustain and expand the YMCA’s mission impact by advancing global diversity, equity, and inclusion both at home and abroad.

DQ had the opportunity to visit the YMCA of the USA offices in Chicago for the program orientation to connect with other leaders from YMCAs across the nation and develop a support system with other members of his cohort. During EGLI orientation, DQ visited local YMCAs to learn how they advance Global, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (GDEI) within their communities. He was able to explore new ideas for capstone projects and see how other YMCAs create spaces of belonging.

Now that DQ has returned home from the orientation, he will participate in virtual EGLI meetings with his cohort every 2 weeks to continue advancing conversations around concepts of global leadership and working toward a capstone project that improves our community.

In addition to regular virtual meetings, EGLI participants are also paired with a local Executive Sponsor who serves as a mentor and support throughout the process. DQ’s executive sponsor is Jarrod Covington, District Executive Director of YMCA of Greenville’s Prisma Health Family YMCA.

The EGLI experience will culminate with an international trip to Bogota Colombia in the fall. Upon successful completion of the program, DQ will earn the YMCA Global Leader Certification.

The Emerging Global Leaders Institue and Multicultural Executive Director Institute are both part of YMCA of the USA’s Multicultural Leadership Development program.