YWCA South Florida Announces 2025-26 Board of Directors and Launch of Emeritus Board

Written By Angeline Evans

YWCA South Florida proudly announces its 2025–26 Board of Directors, ushering in a new slate of officers and welcoming two new members whose leadership and lived experience will help advance our mission.

New to the Board this year:

  • Diane Amado-Tate, Vice President & Chief Nursing Officer Doctors Hospital, Baptist Health South Florida. Diane brings to the board a track record of transformational leadership and strategic impact, having led Doctors Hospital to its first ANCC Magnet® designation. Her commitment to excellence, continuous improvement, and community engagement are well aligned with YWCA’s mission and will help drive meaningful change.

  • Cecilia (Ceci) Rivas-Gonzalez, Program Officer, Frederick A. Deluca Foundation. Ceci is a strategic philanthropic leader and systems innovator will a passion for solutions that unlock the empowerment of people, organizations, and systems for the greater good. With deep experience amplifying impactful nonprofit partnerships and supporting emerging leaders across the region, Ceci brings to the YWCA board a powerful blend of philanthropic insight, community connection, and a track record of elevating women-led initiatives.

We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Adriene McCoy, who is rotating off the Board after years of dedicated service. A former Board Chair and Vice Chair, Adriene’s strategic vision, compassionate leadership, and unwavering support have helped shape YWCA South Florida’s growth and resilience in recent years. Her legacy will live on in every program and partnership she helped bring to life.

The new officers for 2025–26 include Stacy-Ann Smith, Senior Director and Assistant Corporate Controller, UKG, continuing in her role as Board Chair; Nikki Packer, Senior Vice President and Senior Philanthropic Specialist, Wells Fargo Wealth & Investment Management, Vice Chair; Jackie Bravo, Executive Vice President, Corporate Secretary & Director of Tax and ESG, BankUnited, Treasurer; and Barbara Martinez, Partner, Holland & Knight, Secretary. Their leadership reflects a shared commitment to bold, values-driven governance and a deep investment in YWCA’s long-term vision.

“As Board Chair, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the power of shared leadership and collective vision firsthand,” said Stacy-Ann Smith, Board Chair (2024–25 and 2025–26). “Our incoming Board continues to reflect the richness, depth, and strength of our South Florida community. I’m especially proud to welcome Diane and Ceci, and grateful to Adriene for the trail she has blazed.”

We are also honored to announce the formation of our first-ever Emeritus Board—a distinguished group of former board leaders and community changemakers who will continue to offer strategic insight, mentorship, and advocacy in support of our mission.

Inaugural Emeritus Board Members include:

  • Adriene McCoy, Baptist Health South Florida, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2019-2025, Chair 2022-2024, Vice Chair 2024-2025

  • Kelly-Ann Cartwright, Holland & Knight, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2008-2022, Chair 2020-2022

  • Caroline Iovino, McDermott Will & Emery LLP, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2013-2022, Chair 2018-2020

  • Lisa Shim, BankUnited, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2019-2024, Treasurer 2022-2024

  • Angela Deggs, Northern Trust Company. YWCA Board Member 2016-2021, Secretary 2018-2021

  • Vernita Nelson, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2007-2010, Vice Chair 2009-2010

  • Hon. Carroll J. Kelly, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2004-2010, Secretary 2008-2010

  • Teresa Ragatz, Isicoff Ragatz, YWCA South Florida Board Member 2000-2007, Chair 2005-2007

  • Robbie Bell, YWCA South Florida Board Member 1998-2002, Vice Chair 1999-2002

“As we navigate a time of both urgency and opportunity, I’m deeply energized by the leadership guiding our movement forward,” adds Kerry-Ann Royes, President and CEO of YWCA South Florida. “Diane and Ceci bring vital perspectives to our board, and Adriene leaves behind a legacy of fierce advocacy and grace under pressure. I am especially excited about the launch of our Emeritus Board as it ensures we continue to draw strength from those who have helped build our foundation.”

With new additions and enduring leadership at the helm, YWCA South Florida is poised to deepen its impact across the region.

Angeline Evans
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