Secily Wilson

Project Director

I’m often asked, “How did you go from broadcast news to the nonprofit sector?” The answer is simple. The transition wasn’t a choice. Sometimes you are pushed into your purpose. After experiencing a series of unexpected life adversities, including an on-air stroke, my life quickly fell apart. One of my favorite quotes is, “In order to find yourself, you must lose yourself in the service of others.” I am a woman of strong faith and resilience. I began to embody the words of my favorite quote. The philanthropic bug bit me. My gifts gave me the opportunity to merge my profession with my passion; “Service above self.” As a former television news anchor and reporter, Secily’s fundraising talents are rooted in her communicative abilities that connect with funders.

Throughout her career in journalism, Secily honed her aptitude for collecting and analyzing data for effective communications, a skill that has served her well in her nonprofit career. She is able to distill information from a variety of sources to provide concise, informative stories; a talent that transfers well when creating the compelling stories needed by nonprofit organizations to move their funders to action.

Secily exercised her warm and engaging personality through her work as Director of Development for the YMCA of Central Florida, Orlando. In addition to her major gift solicitation responsibilities, she collaborated with executives and cross-functional staff to promote the YMCA brand, act as the spokesperson for media interviews, and to plan and execute special events.

An active member of the greater Orlando community, she volunteers with a variety of organizations throughout the region, including passionate interests for stroke awareness and curbing domestic violence.

Summary of Experience

• Twenty plus years as an anchor, reporter, and producer for television stations in numerous markets, including those in the top 20 market size.
• Founder, WOW Legacy Group to empower, educate, inspire, and transform women facing life adversities.
• As Director of Development for the YMCA of Central Florida, worked with agency staff and Financial Development Committee to create and implement the Donor Relationship Program, which included both systematic stewardship communication to donors as well as utilized management strategies that expanded the donor base and pipeline of donor prospects.
• Executive Board Member, Maitland Art and History Museum, FL.
• Circle of Red Member – American Heart Association.
• Board Member, J4 Leaders.
• Committee Member, Florida Hospital Foundation Cardiovascular Institute.
• Vice President, Lake Buena Vista Rotary Club, FL.
• Bachelor of Fine Arts, Journalism from Valdosta State University, GA.