News Summary
The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg has announced the appointment of Nicci Bucher as their new Chief Executive Officer, set to take over in November. Bucher, who has over 20 years of experience within the YMCA, will focus on community engagement and expand outreach through partnerships rather than new locations. She aims to enhance mentorship and health equity programs while overseeing current initiatives like preschool expansion and renovations. Outgoing CEO David Jezek expressed confidence in her ability to continue the organization’s mission.
St. Petersburg, FL – The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg has appointed Nicci Bucher as its new Chief Executive Officer, set to officially assume her role in November 2025. She succeeds David Jezek, who has led the organization for 17 years and announced his retirement earlier this year in March 2025.
Bucher brings over 20 years of experience in leadership roles within the YMCA organization, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer at YMCA of Central Florida. In this position, she oversees 14 family centers, four early learning centers, and 30 before-and-after school locations across the region. Notably, she has also managed the Learning Centers at Walt Disney World Resort, which serve children aged six weeks to 12 years.
Her decision to take on the new role at the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg is influenced by the alignment of the organization’s current programs with her past work experiences. She has indicated that fostering engagement with local residents will be a priority, emphasizing the importance of understanding the community in fulfilling the YMCA’s mission.
Bucher has articulated plans to expand the YMCA’s outreach through partnerships with healthcare organizations and other nonprofits rather than focusing on the establishment of new locations. As she transitions into her role, Bucher will manage ongoing initiatives such as the expansion of the Speer YMCA Preschool Academy and the renovation of the Jim & Heather Gills YMCA.
Lucas DeVicente, the chair of the search committee, has commended Bucher’s extensive background and commitment to youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility, labeling her as the clear choice for the position. Also worth noting is Bucher’s prior experience with the Florida Department of Children and Families, adding to her qualifications.
The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg aims to enhance its focus on youth mentorship, education, and health equity under Bucher’s leadership. Jezek, the outgoing CEO, has expressed confidence in Bucher’s ability to honor the foundational work established during his tenure while guiding the organization into a new chapter of growth and innovation.
A community introduction event, along with a formal announcement from the YMCA regarding Bucher’s appointment, is expected to be released within the coming week.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg Welcomes New CEO to Enhance School Programs
Nicci Bucher Appointed as New CEO of YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg
Exploring St. Petersburg: A Guide for Introverts
The Henry at Whitney Village Begins Construction in St. Petersburg
Pinellas County Schools Set for Major Funding Boost
New Leadership Aims to Tackle Homelessness Challenges in Pinellas County
Volunteer Opportunities in Tampa Bay
David W. Jezek to Retire from St. Petersburg YMCA
Tampa Bay Organizations Seek Volunteers
Welcome to St. Petersburg: A Fresh Start for the Homeless
Additional Resources
- TBB Business: YMCA St. Petersburg New CEO
- Google Search: YMCA St. Petersburg
- TBB Business: YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg CEO Announces Retirement
- Wikipedia: Youth Mentorship
- St. Pete Catalyst: St. Pete YMCA CEO to Retire
- Google News: YMCA Retirement St. Petersburg
- St. Peterising: St. Petersburg YMCA Sells Land
- Encyclopedia Britannica: YMCA
- TBB Business: YMCA St. Petersburg Chief Operating Officer
- Google Scholar: YMCA Leadership
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
