Dr. Genevieve Shepherd
As the past principal of Tom Bradley Elementary and a noted motivational speaker, Dr. Shepherd was known for her strong listening and speaking skills. But when she was inducted into the YMCA Golden Book of Distinguished Service in 2005, she was struck speechless, perhaps for the first time in her life.
Because of her unshakeable faith in the YMCA, Dr. Shepherd made sure that her campus hosted YMCA after-school programs for more than 20 years. To expand programming, she worked with the Crenshaw Family YMCA to bring two modular buildings to her school. She helped to gather support for the YMCA from numerous community churches and businesses.
Dr. Shepherd’s father was a minister, as was her husband; however, she believed the YMCA’s principles were for people of all faiths. She said the YMCA teaches honesty, fair play, and respect; skills that will help children all their lives.
