Alex Roche

Alex Roche joined the University YMCA in 2026 as Director of Development. He comes to Champaign-Urbana with a career in youth development, nonprofit leadership, and community programming, most notably as Chief Operating Officer and Director of the Downtown Community Center at Manhattan Youth in New York City.

He believes in the power of community organizations to bring people together, open doors for young people and families, and serve as a cornerstone in times of crisis. He values the diversity of backgrounds, experiences, and ideas that make communities and organizations stronger.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Urban Studies and Affairs from Binghamton University and a master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology from Baruch College. He and his wife, Trucle, now a public middle school science teacher, moved to Champaign-Urbana with their son, who attends high school locally.

Outside of work, Alex enjoys traveling, playing ice hockey, perfecting his pizza dough, and spending time with family and friends. He’s excited to be part of the University YMCA and the community he now calls home.