JAMESTOWN – Karen Schiavone has recently joined the Jamestown Area YMCA as membership and marketing director.

Schiavone comes to the Y with almost 10 years of experience in marketing, media relations and publishing. Most recently, she managed social media for Chautauqua Institution. Schiavone previously served as marketing director for O’Connell & Aronowitz, P.C. of Albany. While in Albany, she was a member of the Junior League of Albany and the Saratoga Performing Arts Center Junior Committee.

Schiavone is thrilled to have the opportunity to make a personal impact on Jamestown and its surrounding communities as membership and marketing director.

“Nothing is more meaningful than working together to strengthen your own community,” said Schiavone. “With so many charitable organizations hard at work here in Jamestown, I want to make sure we are taking every opportunity offered to enrich the lives of those around us.”

Between gymnastics and swimming, Schiavone spent much of her childhood at the Jamestown and Lakewood YMCAs and Camp Onyahsa. It was that time spent that made her aware of how profoundly important the Y programs are to the local community.

“We are very excited to have Karen on board,” said Mark Eckendorf, YMCA executive director. “We had over 130 applicants, and she brings a wealth of experience. We are looking forward to great things.”

Schiavone received her Juris Doctor from Albany Law School magna cum laude and also holds a Bachelors of Science in business management from Grove City College. She resides in Jamestown and is a member of the First Presbyterian Church.

The Jamestown Area YMCA, a United Way agency, focuses on its mission on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility.