David Smith named CEO of Sparta YMCA

The Sparta-White County Family YMCA has removed the “interim” from David Smith’s title.

The YMCA Board of Directors unanimously approved Smith as the organization’s new CEO following a search that drew multiple applicants and included interviews with candidates for the position.

Smith had served as interim CEO since August, when former CEO Kyle Goff left the YMCA after being elected White County Executive. But Smith’s history with the organization goes back several years and includes multiple roles.

He first joined the Sparta-White County Family YMCA in April 2019, working as a welcome center attendant and aquatics coordinator until September 2020. Smith returned to the YMCA in June 2024 as business administrator, a position he held until being named interim CEO in August 2026.

Smith’s appointment as interim CEO did not automatically make the position his. The board accepted applications and conducted interviews as part of its search for the YMCA’s next permanent leader before ultimately selecting Smith from the field of candidates.

Amos Rogan, chief volunteer officer for the Sparta-White County Family YMCA, said Smith’s work during the transition demonstrated that he was prepared to continue in the role.

“David has shown through this time of transition that he embodies the values and mission of our YMCA,” Rogan said in announcing the board’s decision.

Rogan also thanked the board for its work throughout the search, saying members evaluated the candidates while remaining focused on the YMCA’s Christian mission and the direction of the organization.

He credited the YMCA staff as well for maintaining operations throughout the leadership change.

“You have been outstanding during this time and the true backbone of our organization,” Rogan said.

With the board’s unanimous decision, Smith now moves permanently into the CEO position after spending approximately two months leading the YMCA on an interim basis.

“God has blessed us richly and may He continue to do so as we move forward to many prosperous years ahead with David Smith as our leader,” Rogan said.