Jovan L. Custis, Executive Director

Hi. I’m Jovan Custis and I have the privilege of serving as the Executive Director of the Orokawa Y in Towson. My journey with the Y began in 2017, serving in multiple leadership capacities in the Y’s Youth Development programs, including as Associate Executive Director of School Partnerships, which encompasses our work in dozens of public schools throughout the Baltimore metro region. I shifted my focus to supporting Y Family Centers in 2022 as the Executive Director of the Y in Parkville, and I now serve the Towson community.

One of my favorite quotes is by Ralph Waldo Emerson, which states, “What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”  I believe participation in the Y community helps us all be our best selves. I am passionate about building relationships and enjoy building healthy connections with our members and the community at large. 

I am here to support you and your family’s healthy living journey and ensure a positive member experience in a welcoming environment of inclusion and belonging for all. 

I look forward to seeing you at the Y!

Leadership Team

• Executive Director: Jovan Custis
• Membership Director: Ja'nel Carrington-Smith
• Operations Director: Jennifer Umplett