Bidding Farewell to a YMCA Ambassador

For more than a decade, Sue Lee of the Greater Joliet Area YMCA has embodied the spirit and mission of the YMCA to the fullest. She has been instrumental to the Y’s growth in many different roles: As a swim team parent, as a board member and as the Y’s Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving. Sue’s tenure as a staff member, however, will soon come to a bittersweet end when she retires at the end of July.

Sue’s family, friends and colleagues came together Thursday at the Gathering Room of the Jacob Henry Mansion Estate in Joliet, to celebrate her illustrious career and share praise for her dedicated work. Guests included a number of volunteers, staff and friends of the Y, including President and CEO of the Joliet YMCA, Jim Watts, and YMCA Annual Campaign Co-Chairs, Christopher Parker and Nick Macris.

During an emotional farewell speech, Sue graciously thanked colleagues, co-workers and, of course, her family. Her husband, Michael, and two daughters, Christina and Missy, were in attendance.  Afterward, many attendees shared stories and gave thanks to the guest of honor.