YWCA Lower Cape Fear appoints new chief executive officer

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — YWCA Lower Cape Fear has named Jhaniqua Palmer as its new chief executive officer, marking a return to the organization where she previously served in leadership roles.

Palmer officially began her new position on Monday, Aug. 10, following what the organization’s Board of Directors described as an extensive executive search.

“After an extensive search, the board is thrilled to welcome Jhaniqua Palmer to lead our team,” Board Chair Suzanne Wertman said in a statement. “She is uniquely positioned and skilled to lead the YWCA Lower Cape Fear into the next phase of serving our community. Her dedication to our mission of eliminating racism and empowering women is unparalleled.”

Palmer previously worked at YWCA Lower Cape Fear from 2019 to 2023, first as the Grandparent Support Network program coordinator for advocacy and racial justice before becoming director of outreach.

During her previous tenure, she led advocacy and racial justice initiatives, economic empowerment programs, financial literacy and job-skills training, and diversity, equity and inclusion education. She also helped expand community partnerships throughout the region.

Most recently, Palmer served as special projects manager for YWCA USA, where she supported national executive leadership and coordinated initiatives involving governance, healthcare, crisis response, community assessment and global advocacy. Her work also included leading national delegations to the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women and supporting YWCA organizations across the country.

“It is an honor to return to YWCA Lower Cape Fear and serve a community and mission that have shaped so much of my leadership journey,” Palmer said. “I look forward to working alongside our staff, board, partners and community members to strengthen the programs people rely on, deepen our impact and build a bold, sustainable future rooted in dignity, equity and opportunity for women, girls and families across the Lower Cape Fear region.”

Palmer earned a Master of Divinity from Duke University and a bachelor’s degree from Bennett College for Women. She has received several honors, including Wilmington’s 40 Under 40 Award and the New Hanover County Equity Award for excellence in nonprofit leadership.

As CEO, Palmer will oversee the organization’s strategic direction, daily operations, fundraising, partnerships and community programs as YWCA Lower Cape Fear continues its mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and strengthening families throughout the Lower Cape Fear region.