incoming YWCA director Sherri Bennett

YWCA Clark County announced Tuesday that its board has promoted current director of programs Sherri Bennett to executive director effective Sept. 22, following a national search.

The nonprofit describes its mission as “eliminating racism, empowering women.”

Bennett brings more than 12 years’ nonprofit experience, including direct service advocacy, program development, program management, financial management and fundraising. During eight of those years, she directed the YWCA’s SafeChoice Domestic Violence Program, where she expanded service to marginalized communities, helped create an on-site domestic violence legal clinic, increased outreach and education to middle and high school students and more than doubled revenue for the program.

Bennett holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Western Washington University.

“I am honored and privileged to be selected as a representative of YWCA Clark County,” Bennett said in a news release. “I stand in esteemed company in an organization that draws its inspiration from courageous program participants, dedicated staff and volunteers, and generous donors.”

The YWCA plans to host an open house for community members and corporate partners to see its facilities and meet Bennett.

Current director Kathy Kniep will continue to serve through Sept. 22 and plans to stay involved with YWCA Clark County.

Pat McDonnell

Vancouver City Manager Pat McDonnell announced today he had submitted his letter of resignation to the Mayor and City Council, effective Nov. 1.

McDonnell, who was appointed Vancouver’s city manager in September 2000, said he will pursue a new career in the private sector as senior director of site services for SEH America.

Before his appointment as Vancouver’s city manager, McDonnell had served as deputy city manager since March 1998. Prior to that, McDonnell had served as Clark County administrator, appointed in February 1991, and assistant Clark County administrator, appointed in June 1987.

“It has been a privilege to serve the City of Vancouver,” McDonnell said.

Mayor Tim Leavitt said, “Filling this important leadership position will be a critical task for Council in the coming months.”

The elected officials from Clark County  and the cities of Battle Ground, Camas, Ridgefield, Vancouver and Washougal recently established a blue ribbon commission to look at the future of parks and recreation. They are specifically studying funding and operations. Each jurisdiction appointed two representatives to serve on the commission, which will meet monthly through February 2011.

The commission’s objective is to review the current operational and funding challenges and opportunities in each jurisdiction and make specific recommendations.

The commission’s recommendations will reflect the interests, values and needs of the citizens of each participating jurisdiction. There will be several opportunities for the public to provide input into this process. In addition, all of the commission meetings are open to the public and include public comment periods.

A short online survey is available at  www.cityofvancouver.us/blueribbon. More information is also available by calling 360-619-1144.