YMCA of Greater Seattle CEO Loria Yeadon Honored at City University of Seattle

YMCA of Greater Seattle President and CEO Loria Yeadon delivered the commencement address for City University of Seattle’s Class of 2026 on June 13 at T-Mobile Park, celebrating graduates from around the world and highlighting a newly announced collaboration between the YMCA and City University that will expand educational opportunities, workforce pathways, and whole-person well-being across the region.

The ceremony brought together graduates, families, faculty, and community leaders from several continents to celebrate the achievements of CityU’s newest alumni and the power of education to create opportunities and strengthen communities.

“City U, Class of 2026, 
Trust your gut. 
Trust your voice. 
Trust your path. 
Even when you cannot yet see the full picture. Even when the road is bumpy and has twists and turns. Even when your path is nonlinear. Trust that the Universe is ordering your steps with clarity, destiny, and purpose and taking you somewhere that is worth going.” 

– Mrs. Yeadon in commencement address

Every graduate crossing the stage has a story of perseverance, resilience, and possibility, each embracing the unique paths that brought them to this milestone and to lead with purpose as they launch into destiny.

Mrs. Yeadon was among those uplifted at the event, receiving an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters (honoris causa) from City University of Seattle.

The commencement ceremony also highlighted the growing partnership between City University of Seattle and the YMCA of Greater Seattle, coming just days after the signing of a Letter of Intent establishing a strategic collaboration focused on student success, workforce opportunity, and community well-being.

Through the collaboration, the organizations will work together to create scholarships, expand career and academic pathways for Y staff, provide internship and practicum opportunities for City University students, increase access to health and wellness resources, and strengthen leadership pathways for CityU students, faculty, staff, and their families and invest in the next generation of community leaders.

The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to helping working adults, students, veterans and families access the tools, supports and opportunities they need to thrive.

“This is what happens when visionary, community-minded organizations come together and realize their shared purpose through collaboration,” said Mrs. Yeadon.

View Mrs. Yeadon's speech >>

City University of Seattle was built for people who are balancing careers, families, military service, and life’s many responsibilities while pursuing their goals and purpose. Their determination inspires all of us. The YMCA of Greater Seattle was honored to be a part of the celebration this past weekend and looks forward to the many celebratory moments ahead.

The YMCA of Greater Seattle congratulates all City University of Seattle graduates and their families. Thank you for inspiring us. YGS looks forward to continuing its collaboration with CityU to help create stronger, more connected leaders and communities.