The YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina recently announced the appointments of three leaders who are  according to a news release.

They are Jeremy Hardy, who is executive director of the Midtown YMCA; Ashley Bethea (pictured below at right), executive director of school-aged and early learning programs; and William “Bill” Nunez Jr. (pictured below at left), executive director of the Sampson County YMCA.

Hardy brings over a decade of nonprofit leadership and a heart for community service, the release stated. Most recently, Jeremy led Vigilant Hope, where he launched job training programs and mobile services for underserved populations in Wilmington, according to the release.

“Jeremy’s experience in community engagement and innovative programming makes him the perfect person to guide Midtown YMCA’s continued growth,” said Meghan Merritt, YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina’s chief operating officer.

Bethea's new role "reflects the growing scale and complexity of the Y’s youth development work."

She will oversee afterschool care, preschool, summer camp and other enrichment programs across Southeastern North Carolina. In her previous role as regional education director, Bethea led efforts to enhance curriculum, grow enrollment and build community partnerships within New Hanover County, according to the release.

"Ashley’s leadership is essential as we scale our youth and early learning programs to meet rising demand across the region,” said Corey Maarschalk, vice president of youth services for the YMCA. “She brings a deep commitment to excellence, a passion for kids and families, and the operational experience needed to lead this work with vision and heart.”

Nunez brings more than 25 years of YMCA leadership to his new role, according to the release. Previously associate vice president of operations for the YMCA of South Florida, he oversaw multiple branches and led initiatives in education, food access and youth development. Nunez's official start date is Aug. 15.

Merritt said in the release, “Bill’s depth of experience and community-first mindset will help us expand our services and strengthen our footprint in Sampson County."