Springfield College and the YMCA | Springfield College

Springfield College and the YMCA

We Are Stronger Together.

Since 1885, we at Springfield College have developed a strong connection with the Y. Our commitment to educating Y leaders has remained steadfast. While we carry great pride in our rich heritage, we are equally proud of our current Y programs that continue to evolve and grow today.

With our flagship campus in Springfield, Mass., several regional campuses, and fully online programs, our bond is stronger than ever. With a deep commitment to advancing equity, Springfield College is the first institution of higher education in the country to join the Y’s Diversity, Inclusion and Global (DIG) Innovation Network. Integrating a DIG lens into the fabric of our programs and services ensures that everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity.

Furthermore, our partnership is so strong that it’s here, on our campus, that the National YMCA Hall of Fame calls home. We are humbled to honor our Y heroes who were the visionaries and pioneers moving the Y forward and strengthening communities - nationally and/or internationally.

Whether you are interested in exploring our Y leadership and service programs, are considering the Y minor (and perhaps, even a Y career), or are a professional seeking advancement, we invite you to browse our pages to learn more.

Learn - Lead - Serve | Our Programs Are Designed With You In Mind

YMCA student leaders jumping for a photo
YMCA Leadership and Service Programs

Engage Beyond the Classroom

We believe every student thrives as they discover who they are and what they can achieve. Beyond the classroom, we offer programs for all students to explore their passions and potential career pathways, hone their leadership skills, engage in professional development, broaden their horizons through global Y engagement, and strengthen communities through volunteer service. Just like the Y in a community, our programs are ‘for all’, regardless of your academic major and identity. These programs are offered by the Office of YMCA Relations and the YMCA Club which are based on the main campus.

YMCA student posing with sign that says #FirstDayOfSchool
YMCA Professional Studies Minor

The Minor with Major Potential

Compatible with many academic programs, we offer a 15-credit interdisciplinary minor with a customizable and flexible structure. If you are wondering, why the Y? Consider this: as a global movement with a presence in 119 countries the Y strengthens the foundations of community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. As one of the largest non-profit organizations in the country, the Y actively recruits emerging leaders from diverse fields of study to serve as changemakers. Springfield College is the only institution in the country that offers an academic minor focused on the Y coupled with programs/services to enhance your learning.

YMCA Harold C. Smith Scholarship Fellows posing for a picture on the Springfield College staircase
Working Adult Programs

Degrees for Advancing Your YMCA Career

Wherever you find yourself in your Y career, we’ve got a degree program for you. Learn more about Springfield College’s grants and how you might earn credit for your Y leadership trainings towards your bachelor’s or graduate degree.

Old photo of YMCA men standing in gymnasium
Our Historical Partnership

Harnessing the Power of Collaboration for Good

Nearly 135 years of partnership is part of the history and legacy that connects Springfield College and the YMCA. The two organizations have enjoyed a strong connection that dates back to the establishment of the College in 1885, then known as the School for Christian Workers. Throughout the years, hundreds of YMCA professionals and volunteers have graduated from Springfield College. They continue to lead and serve within their communities following the guiding principles of the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body for leadership in service to others.

Photo of Springfield College's Y museum Hall of Fame section
National YMCA Hall of Fame

Honoring Legacy YMCA Leaders

The National YMCA Hall of Fame provides a platform to recognize YMCA professionals and volunteers who exemplify a lifetime of commitment to the mission and cause of the YMCA. It honors individuals who have devoted their lives to strengthening community through their devotion and dedication of serving people and making a positive impact on the community, nationally and/or internationally. National Hall of Fame inductees have been recognized for their leadership, always encouraging and nurturing others around them to develop their true potential in spirit, mind, and body.

YMCA staff posing in front of step and repeat banner
Office of YMCA Relations

Cultivating and Strengthening Our Y Connection

We strive to remain the premiere leadership development center for the YMCA. Our focus is on cultivating and educating cause-driven, equity leaders to serve the global Y Movement, through meaningful careers and volunteer service, at home and abroad. To most dynamically enrich the student educational experience, our team maintains a broad portfolio that engages students, staff, and faculty in leveraging our unique partnership with the YMCA of the USA and local Ys. In collaboration with campus and Y partners, we aim to seek new and innovative ways to deepen our historic relationship and expand our strategic future. The YMCA Relations team also hosts Y groups for off-site meetings, arranges prospective Y student visits (one-day or overnight experiences), and welcomes Y Teen groups for Springfield College/Y Program Exploratory visits.

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @springfieldcollegey

Learn more about the YMCA
YMCA Professional Studies Minor
YMCA Degree Completion Program
Partnership
YMCA Hall of Fame
Staff

Springfield College, 263 Alden Street, Springfield, MA 01109-3739 (413) 748-3000      
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413-748-3000