Rutledge and Chester Heights native Rachel Firkser is the Chief Financial Officer at the YMCA of Greater Brandywine, where she ensures the sustainability and financial health of the organization.

“The YMCA supports tens of thousands of people in our community through healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility, and my job is to make sure our mission continues for years to come,” said Firkser. “I love seeing the people we impact every day whether it’s the children in our Early Learning Centers or Camps — including my own — or our senior members who participate in our active older adult programming.”

Firkser started with the YMCA before her current role as CFO; in fact, one of her first jobs was as a lifeguard at the Ridley Area YMCA. Firkser attended Strath Haven High School in Wallingford, where she graduated in 2004. From there, she received he undergraduate degree from Widener University (graduated in 2008 summa cum laude). Her education continued, even while working full-time and starting a family.

“While working full-time at Comcast and starting a family, I went to school at night at Drexel University where I received my MBA in 2016,” said Firkser. “I am a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Pennsylvania Institute of CPAs (PICPA) and the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA).”

Firkser credits her family with having the greatest impact on her career.

“Without the support of my husband, Dave, and our parents, we wouldn’t be able to manage two very busy professional, fulfilling careers and also be able to raise three children,” she said. “Balancing is key, and without their support and help along the way, I would not be where I am today receiving this award.”

Over the course of her career, one of Firkser’s proudest moments is her passing the CPA exam.

“I spent an incredible amount of time studying and sitting for each part of the exam all while working crazy hours during tax season in public accounting,” she said. “Although it was early in my career, it helped open many doors and opportunities that I am very grateful for to this day.”

Firkser’s favorite Chester County restaurant is Sedona Taphouse for lunch with co-workers or family.

Firkser and the rest of the 2024 Class of VISTA Millennial Superstars will be honored at the Awards Reception & Celebration on Thursday, May 9 at Penn State Great Valley, Malvern.

Sponsors are still being sought. Click here to learn more about the various opportunities available to partner with VISTA Today as it celebrates Chester County’s next generation of leaders, or contact Steve Knickerbocker at steve.knickerbocker@acj.today or 484-437-2826.