Chief Executive Officer (CEO) – Gwendolyn Woods
Gwendolyn Woods, Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis brings decades of leadership experience and a deep passion for youth development. Born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee, Gwendolyn’s personal journey through adversity and triumph has shaped her dedication to empowering young people to reach their full potential. Gwendolyn graduated from the University of Memphis on a track scholarship, earning a bachelor’s
degree in Communications. She furthered her education with a Master of Business Administration and a master’s Certificate in Human Resource Management from the University of Phoenix. These academic achievements, combined with her lived experiences, have equipped her with a strong foundation in organizational leadership, strategic planning, and operational excellence. Growing up in the inner city and losing her father to leukemia at the age of four, Gwendolyn was raised by a single mother who instilled in her the values of hard work and perseverance. A pivotal mentorship from a middle school track coach helped Gwendolyn channel her energy toward personal growth, inspiring her to pursue greatness and become a role model for today’s youth. Gwendolyn’s commitment to youth and community development has earned her several accolades, including the prestigious BGCM Youth Development Professional of the Year award in 2020, recognizing her outstanding service and dedication to young people. She is also a recipient of the University of Memphis State 8 Award, which honors outstanding alumni for their professional achievements and community impact. Prior to her role as CEO, Gwendolyn served as Vice President of Operations, where she played a critical role in driving organizational growth, enhancing program delivery, and expanding the reach of the Boys & Girls Club throughout Memphis. Her leadership has been marked by a commitment to the Club’s mission: “To enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens.”
As CEO, Gwendolyn remains dedicated to ensuring that every young person, regardless of their circumstances, has access to opportunities that foster success. She is deeply involved in community outreach and continues to build partnerships that advance the goals of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Memphis. Her visionary leadership is transforming the organization and creating lasting impacts in the lives of the youth she serves. Outside of her professional life, Gwendolyn actively volunteers with various community organizations, driven by her commitment to giving back and creating a positive impact for future generations.
Email: [email protected]
