Pictured left to right at the Madison Area YMCA Board and 1873 Society Celebration are Former Madison Area YMCA CEO and Rotarian Barry Kroll, Mayor of the Borough of Madison Robert H. Conley, E. Michael Caulfield Leadership Award Recipient and Board Member Arthur Powell, Madison Area YMCA Board Chair Michael Griffin, President and CEO Diane Mann, and Executive Advisor, Organization Performance Sharon Kunas. 

(Madison, NJ) — January 14, 2026 — The Madison Area YMCA proudly recognized Arthur Powell, longtime donor, friend, and board member, as the second recipient of the E. Michael Caulfield Leadership Award during the YMCA’s annual Board & 1873 Society Celebration, held Sunday evening, January 11, at the Park Avenue Club. 

The event brought together donors, members, community friends, and Board members to celebrate the Madison Area YMCA’s mission and to honor the extraordinary generosity of its 1873 Society, comprised of individuals who contribute $1,000 or more in annual support. 

Art Powell has served the Madison Area YMCA with distinction for more than 25 years, providing trusted leadership, strong financial expertise, and a steadfast commitment to doing what is best for the community. Known by peers as “Mr. YMCA” and the epitome of a community volunteer, Art has been a mentor and role model to generations of Y leadership. 

Art played a pivotal role in Plan 2000, helping guide the development of the Madison Area YMCA’s Fitness Center and the construction of Kids Central, projects that continue to serve thousands of families each year. He also played a key role in the Y’s 2019 Expansion, supporting another significant chapter of growth that strengthened the Y’s ability to serve the community for generations to come. 

Beyond the Y, Art’s commitment to service has included decades of leadership with the Madison Rotary Club, where he helped strengthen charitable giving practices and support community impact. His civic leadership also includes meaningful service on the Madison Borough Audit Committee, reflecting his dedication to sound governance and financial stewardship. 

The E. Michael Caulfield Leadership Award, established in 2023, honors E. Michael Caulfield (1946–2021), a respected community leader and YMCA champion who served as Board member and Board Chair. The Award recognizes individuals who demonstrate the leadership values Michael modeled throughout his life, including: a commitment to the wellbeing of others, leadership that inspires and motivates others, and perseverance and intentionality in advancing meaningful community impact. 

“Art’s legacy reflects the very best of the YMCA,” said Diane Mann, President & CEO of the Madison Area YMCA. “His leadership has helped shape our organization, strengthen our foundation, and support our community in lasting ways. We are proud to honor Art with this award and deeply grateful for the commitment of our 1873 Society donors whose generosity makes our mission possible.” 

Together, the Madison Area YMCA continues to build on a legacy that began in 1873, strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The Madison Area YMCA extends sincere thanks to its Board members and generous donors, whose leadership and support make the Y’s work possible year-round. Through the YMCA’s Annual Fund, 100% of funds raised go directly back into the community to support Y Scholarships and essential programs that strengthen youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Together, these gifts create opportunities for children, families, and individuals across our community—ensuring the Y remains a place where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive. 

About the Madison Area YMCA 

The Madison Area YMCA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Serving individuals and families of all ages and backgrounds, the Y provides programs and services that promote belonging, foster well-being, and ensure access for all through Y Scholarships and community support. 

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