Meghan Cochrane
VP of Membership, Marketing, and Communications
Montgomery, AL – The YMCA of Greater Montgomery is pleased to announce the appointment of AJ Hernandez as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. With an extensive background in executive leadership within the YMCA network and a passion for community development, Hernandez brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to fostering positive environments for families.
Hernandez, a Tennessee native who grew up in Chattanooga, brings a deep-rooted love for community engagement and youth development. He is a former athlete and a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee. His dedication to the YMCA movement began early in his career, starting in youth programs at the YMCA of Metropolitan Chattanooga.
Prior to joining the YMCA of Greater Montgomery, Hernandez served as the President and CEO of the YMCA of Wichita Falls in Texas, where he spearheaded significant program enhancements and forged key partnerships with local organizations to expand YMCA services in underserved communities.
Throughout his career, Hernandez has demonstrated a strong commitment to organizational excellence and community impact. He has led multiple capital campaigns totaling over $30 million and has been a keynote speaker at YMCA national conferences on topics ranging from culture to leadership.
“I am honored to join the YMCA of Greater Montgomery and continue the organization’s legacy of serving the community,” said Hernandez. “I believe in the transformative power of the YMCA in creating positive and inclusive spaces for families to thrive.”
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Hernandez is deeply committed to his family and faith. He and his wife Meredith are raising their two children in a Christ-centered home dedicated to serving others.
“We are thrilled to welcome AJ Hernandez to the YMCA of Greater Montgomery family,” said General Ed Crowell, Chair of the YMCA of Greater Montgomery Board of Directors. “His leadership experience, passion for community service, and dedication to the YMCA mission make him an ideal fit to lead our organization into its next chapter.”
Hernandez’s appointment as CEO of the YMCA of Greater Montgomery is effective June 10th. He looks forward to working closely with the staff, volunteers, and community partners to advance the YMCA’s mission of youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility.
About the YMCA of Greater Montgomery:
The YMCA of Greater Montgomery is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, the YMCA provides programs and services for individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds. For more information, or to join, donate, or volunteer, please visit www.ymcamontgomery.org
