WWFY HONORS LEADERS, VOLUNTEERS, AND STAFF AT 102ND ANNUAL MEETING
Westport, CT –The Westport Weston Family YMCA proudly hosted its 102nd Annual Meeting of the Association on Monday, June 8, 2026 bringing together board members, volunteers, staff, donors, and community members to celebrate another year of impact, leadership, and service throughout the community.
The evening opened with welcome remarks from Glen Hale, Chief Executive Officer, followed by a special Mission Moment Video, Building Confidence with the Gymcats, highlighting the transformative impact the WWFY GymCats has on gymnasts and their families.
Board President Juliane Sunderland called the meeting to order and led the approval of the annual meeting minutes. Reports were presented by members of the Board of Directors, including updates from the Growth Committee, Treasurer Dan Ferson, and the YMCA Foundation Corporation.
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when the WWFY surprised Ellen Johnston, Competitive Swimming Director, with a special recognition honoring her 40 years of dedicated service to the Westport Weston Family YMCA.
For four decades, Ellen has been a cornerstone of the YMCA’s aquatics programs, mentoring generations of swimmers, coaches, and families. Her passion for youth development, commitment to excellence, and unwavering dedication have helped shape the Water Rat Swim Team into one of the region’s most respected programs.
As family, friends, colleagues, former swimmers, and community members reflected on Ellen’s remarkable career, the surprise recognition served as a heartfelt tribute to the lasting impact she has made on thousands of lives throughout her 40 years at the YMCA.
MEET OUR 2026 HONOREES
Lee J. Edelstein Volunteer of the Year: Juliane Sunderland
Juliane has deep roots in Weston and a long-standing connection to the YMCA, beginning as a camp counselor at Mahackeno and continuing today as a parent and board member. She and her husband, Jason, are grateful that all three of their children have grown up in Y programs, building confidence, friendships, and life skills.
As President of the BOD, Juliane reflects the mission of the WWFY through strong leadership, high emotional intelligence, and a thoughtful balance of community impact and organizational realities. She generously gives her time and energy to support Board members and key initiatives despite a full professional and family life. Through her leadership and continued involvement with the Bedford Responsibility Fund and YMCA programs, Juliane remains deeply committed to the Y’s mission of supporting youth and families.
Allen Raymond Legacy & Impact Award: Gloria and Peter Nussbaum
Peter and Gloria Nussbaum have made a lasting impact on the Westport Weston Family YMCA and the broader community through their dedicated leadership, service and philanthropy.
Peter served on the WWFY Foundation Board of Trustees and its Investment Committee, where he played a key role in securing a new portfolio manager. He also volunteered as a coach for the YMCA Special Olympics swim program for many years.
Gloria is a former WWFY Board Director and currently serves on the Bedford Social Responsibility Fund Committee, helping direct hundreds of thousands of dollars in grants to local nonprofits that expand educational opportunities for children and young adults.
Together, their commitment to strengthening communities is reflected in the Nussbaum Kids Club, which provides a safe, welcoming space for children while families participate in YMCA programs and activities.
Edward T. Bedford Outstanding Youth Awards: Ella Gussen and Ellie Arber
Ella has been with the Water Rat Swim Team since age 5, an unusually young age to join. Starting at Brophy Pool, she quickly showed a strong love for swimming, discipline, and coachability. She has achieved success at the local, regional, and national levels. Coaches have great respect for her impact on team culture. Her character, work ethic, coachability, and kindness are qualities that set her apart.
This fall, Ella will attend the University of Chicago, where she was accepted on her own merits. She has taken nearly every AP course offered and excelled on them. She maintains a disciplined routine, often in bed by 8 to 8:30, and is consistently first on deck for practices. She will enter college already holding Division III Top 8 times, reflecting her determination, focus, and drive.
A YMCA Level 7 gymnast, Ellie earned 1st Place All-Around at the 2026 YMCA State Championships and was named captain of the Staples High School gymnastics team for the 2027 season.
Committed to both leadership and service, Ellie has volunteered more than 90 hours with Westport EMS and nearly 60 additional hours through six National Honor Societies. She is the founder and president of Crochet for a Cause, serves as president of the Pre-Med Club, and is a dedicated cellist in the Staples Stradivarius Chamber Orchestra. Ellie truly exemplifies the YMCA’s core values.
WWFY Employee Recognition Awards:
- Paul I. Becker Employee of the Year: Ashlee Grieb
Ashlee is a true example of dedication, leadership, and service at the YMCA. She consistently goes above and beyond to support our members, staff, and programs, always bringing energy, creativity, and compassion to everything she does. Whether advocating for improvements to enhance the member experience, leading successful fundraising efforts like Dance for a Cure, supporting our Parkinson’s and LIVESTRONG participants, or stepping in wherever help is needed, Ashlee’s commitment never goes unnoticed.
Her welcoming spirit, inclusive approach, and genuine care for others make a lasting impact on everyone she meets. Ashlee embodies the YMCA’s mission and values each day, and we are grateful for the energy, care, and leadership she brings to the Y.
- Above & Beyond: William Gaillard
Will is a dedicated and dependable team member who consistently goes above and beyond to support both staff and members. As Weeknight Facility Supervisor, he takes great pride in his work, keeps operations running smoothly, and ensures the YMCA remains a safe and welcoming environment for everyone.
Known for his positive attitude, professionalism, and strong work ethic, Will is always willing to lend a hand and tackle any challenge that comes his way. His reliability, leadership, and genuine care for others have earned the respect of his colleagues and made him an invaluable part of our team.
- Commitment to Mission: Ellen Johnston
Ellen has shown long-standing dedication to the Water Rats and the Westport Weston Family YMCA swim program. Her steady presence, commitment to athletes, and support of coaches have helped strengthen the team over many years.
Through her time with the Water Rats, Ellen has consistently contributed to the growth and stability of the program, demonstrating care for both the swimmers and the broader Y community. Her lasting impact is reflected in the continuity and strength of the swim team she has helped support.
- Relationship Champion: Adrienne Morrison
Adrienne is a dedicated and enthusiastic team member whose positive attitude and willingness to help make a lasting impact across the YMCA. From teaching dance, pilates, and barre classes to supporting fundraising efforts and special events, she consistently steps up wherever she is needed.
Known for her warm and welcoming nature, Adrienne is a true team player who is admired by colleagues, members, parents, and participants alike. Her commitment, flexibility, and genuine care for others are evident in everything she does. Her ongoing contributions and dedication to the YMCA community make a meaningful difference.
- Rookie of the Year: Rose Sibboni
Rose is a dedicated leader who brings positivity, enthusiasm, and care to everything she does. As a Lead Teacher, she creates meaningful connections with every child, handles challenges with patience and professionalism, and helps make the after-school program a welcoming and supportive environment.
Rose’s strong work ethic, leadership, and commitment to the children and staff make her an invaluable part of the team. She inspires those around her every day, and her passion for her work is evident in all that she does.
About Westport Weston Family YMCA
The Westport Weston Family YMCA is a cause‑driven nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With more than 100 years of service, the Y brings people together from all walks of life to build a ‘better us’.
