Students. Our Legacy. Our Future.
Since 1873, two elements have been central to the University YMCA’s longevity and dynamism: our commitment to students, and our ability to attract and retain talented staff. As we envision the Association’s long future, both will remain at the heart of our identity and work.
How Does the Fund Work?
Established in 2024, this endowed fund is designated to sustain a leadership position within our staff that is focused on engaging, developing, and supporting students at and through the University YMCA. Our student-focused programming includes Y-affiliated student organizations, the Bailey Scholarship program, internships, workshops, and other opportunities.
Income from the fund will be used for the salary and benefits of the student program director. Any balance remaining will be used to support student-focused programming led by the director.
Our Director
Sydney Curts is our Director for Student Leadership and Engagement. She joined our team in late 2023.
Sydney is a recent graduate in Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences from UIUC. At the Y, Sydney served two terms as the Student Board President. She was a Bailey Scholar, and the President and Co-Founder of Grow2Give. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outside hiking and exploring, or inside with her cat, Saoirse.
Support the Fund
Want to honor a Y staff member who impacted you? Would you like to support the staff who work with our amazing students today? Make a gift to the Student Program Director endowed fund.
Make a Gift TodayDid you know?
The first $20 of your gift each year makes you a Dues Paying Member of the University YMCA. This is fully tax deductible and allows you to vote for or serve on the Board of Governors.
Other Resources and Opportunities for Students
Become a Student Member!Bailey Scholarship ProgramEducation for All ScholarshipLeadership AwardsFood Assistance & Other Resources
Our Mission: "Especially By and For Students"
In 1879, the University YMCA formally committed itself to be a place "especially by and for students." That mission has drawn both generations of students and staff to join together in the pursuit of fellowship and shared action.
Talk with any current or former student who has discovered the Y, and they will be sure to tell you about the Y staff who impacted them.
Here are some of the staff who have made the University YMCA a truly student-centered place.