As a second-year Titan 100, Tracy Williams, president and CEO of YWCA Southeast Wisconsin has pursued growth, created forward-thinking initiatives and adopted changing market conditions. This has included becoming more engaged with YWCA’s global and national network and the national advocacy department to leverage a visit to the White House representing Wisconsin.
YWCA Southeast Wisconsin is on a mission to eliminate racism and empower women. The organization has been at the forefront of the biggest issues of the day for over 160 years, working to improve the lives of women, girls and communities of color through advocacy, local programming and services.
This mission is what Williams describes as her north star. “I share how the mission resonates with my purpose and encourage those working with me to focus on the mission, so they execute with determination, excellence and add value to the organization,” she said. “I have been passionate about the vision and I forge ahead despite others around me expressing doubt, fear and resistance to change.”
Williams said she leads with social emotional intelligence as well as fortitude. She is also known for demonstrating the ability to address complex issues through actionable strategies that lead to immediate and long-term change. This includes creating a flexible workplace with a dynamic workforce. “These steps include supporting our people function with up-to-date local, national and global information to guide how we support and retain a workforce that is mission driven and focused,” she said. “Also, we are supplementing our workforce with strategic partners that provide resources to eliminate burnout and limitations to career growth.”
In addition, while at the helm of the organization, Williams has forged three new major strategic partnerships to lead an upward trajectory that will lead to sustainability and a lasting impact. These partnerships have positively impacted program expansions, program impact and mission-focused initiatives, such as a first-ever gala and awards ceremony to engage a diverse audience of 1,500 community members and a new portfolio of supporters.
Williams’ efforts have garnered her opportunities and recognition. She is in the preplanning phase to redevelop the headquarters as a Women’s Empowerment Hub and was invited to join the HOAN group, an invited group of executives to network and build Milwaukee and Madison communities. In her role, she has continued to lead change. “Many who articulate support of the mission may not be open to innovative strategies or different approaches necessary to achieve success within an organization or business,” said Williams. “This elevates the need for constant communication and education.”
For her staunch commitment to advancing the work of the YWCA, Williams has been named a Titan 100 for the second time.
