YWCA Delaware Welcomes Felisha Lawrence, MSJA as Chief Development Officer

YWCA Delaware proudly announces the appointment of Felisha Lawrence, MSJA, as its new Chief Development Officer (CDO). Lawrence, who has served as a housing grant consultant for YWCA Delaware since spring 2024, brings extensive experience in housing policy, grant management, and program leadership to this pivotal role.

Felisha Lawrence

Chief Development Officer, YWCA Delaware

As CDO, Lawrence will provide strategic direction for all contributed revenue and oversee institutional grant funding, individual giving, donor relations, and communications. Lawrence will collaborate with the CEO, executive team, and Board of Directors to strengthen fundraising systems, expand partnerships with funders and community organizations, and sustain programs that empower individuals and families across Delaware.

“I believe everyone deserves the dignity of a safe and stable place to call home,” said Lawrence. "I’m eager to join an organization that provides pathways to healing, empowerment and leadership across our state. I also want to help others understand the depth of YWCA Delaware's positive impact on our communities.”

Lawrence brings more than a decade of experience advancing housing and community development initiatives. Before joining YWCA Delaware, she served as Regional Program Manager for the Veterans Multi-Service Center, overseeing programs across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey to improve housing access for veterans and their families. Previously, as Senior Program Specialist with Housing Alliance Delaware, she led grant acquisition efforts for homelessness assistance and permanent housing programs, working with statewide partners to align resources and promote housing stability.

“As YWCA Delaware diversifies its revenue streams to meet growing community needs, we are thrilled to have Felisha’s passion, energy, and authenticity on our leadership team,” said Melissa Gonville, CEO of YWCA Delaware. “She is a change agent who brings both heart and discipline to the work of building stronger, more inclusive communities.”

Carolann Wicks, President of the Board of Directors, added, “Felisha can inspire funders, partners, and policymakers to action. She understands how all of our programs work in harmony to expand opportunity and align resources with community priorities. We’re grateful for her leadership as YWCA Delaware continues to strengthen its reach across the state.”

A New Castle, Delaware resident, Lawrence holds a Master of Science in Administration of Justice from Wilmington University and a Bachelor of Science in Anthropology and Pre-Law from James Madison University. She is deeply committed to expanding opportunities for individuals and families through collaboration, inclusive leadership, and strategic philanthropy.