The South Mountain YMCA is facing a big change, but Y employees are confident they can handle them. Executive Director of Maplewood’s South Mountain YMCA Paul Kieltyka has resigned from his position to become the CEO of the Somerset Valley YMCA. His last day at the South Mountain Y will be May 5, and it’s likely to be an emotional one.

“He’s been here almost seven years,” YMCA spokesperson Roslyn Trewick said. “Quite a few people are going to be sad to see him go, including myself.”

It’s an upward move for Kieltyka, who will be managing three YMCA branches at the Somerset Valley system. Trewick praised his tenure at the Y, saying that he took advantage of employees' passions to improve the program. The continuing drama camp and environmental programs, she said, originated with YMCA staff member interest. In addition, Kieltyka strengthened the bond between the Y and the school system.

“He encouraged collaboration with the school district, which allowed us to branch out and serve the community needs,” Trewick said.

Under Kieltyka’s tenure, camp registration steadily increased. But even considering the steady growth, this year saw a spike in early enrollments for camp. Trewick said that with people cutting back from their budgets this year, it’s likely parents look at YMCA camp as an attractive alternative to expensive sleep-away camps. Additionally, the camp’s extended schedule—the earliest session begins at 7:15 am and the final camp time ends at 6:30—and flexible pricing is convenient for parents.

The YMCA tends to promote from within the national organization, but a successor for Kieltyka has not yet been named. For the time being, Kurt Haas, the Chief Operating Officer of the Metro YMCA group, which includes South Mountain and four other area YMCAs, will work from South Mountain as needed. And Trewick said Kieltyka built a capable team that will thrive in his absence.

“He’s always trained us to be self-sufficient,” Trewick said. “His leaving isn’t going to make us fall down.”