Boston, MA – Nov 10, 2025 - The national workforce development organization Year Up United announced today that Ellen McClain has resigned as President and Chief Executive Officer to pursue other opportunities. The Year Up United Board of Directors has appointed Susan Murray, Year Up United’s Chief Revenue Officer, as Interim Chief Executive Officer.
The Board of Directors expressed its deep appreciation for McClain’s leadership, strategic insights and resilience along with her many significant contributions that she has made during her ten years at Year Up United, as CEO, COO and CFO. She always pushed towards advancing the organization’s mission to close the Opportunity Divide and ensure that every young adult has the chance to reach their full potential.
“Over the past 5 years we’ve made tremendous progress transforming our operation, investing in the right technology and evolving our value proposition to students, non-profit and corporate partners,” said McClain. “We are well poised to navigate the future of work in an age of AI. The Board of Directors and I have come to a mutual agreement that now is the time for a change. I will exit Year Up United on December 1, 2025 to pursue other opportunities.”
Garrett Moran, Chair of the Board, thanked McClain for her strong support and commitment in striving to achieve Year Up United’s mission, as well as for all her work to position Year Up United for success now and in the future — a critical task in light of how the workplace is changing.
“I know I speak for everyone on the Board in warmly wishing Ellen all the best and thanking her for her contributions,” said Moran.
Susan Murray, Interim Chief Executive Officer, has served Year Up United for 15 years in a variety of roles and is well-positioned to lead the organization while it undertakes a national search for Year Up United’s next CEO. The search process is underway and will be deliberate and thorough, focused on identifying the right long-term leader for Year Up United’s next chapter of growth and impact. The Board and senior leadership team are aligned and working closely to ensure a smooth transition.
Year Up United remains focused on its mission to ensure greater access to opportunity. The organization’s programs, partnerships, and services will continue without interruption, maintaining a steadfast commitment to empowering young adults nationwide to build meaningful careers and achieve economic mobility.