ITHACA, N.Y. (WHCU) – The City of Ithaca has appointed a new leader at the Ithaca Youth Bureau (IYB).

Gregg Houck was named Director at IYB on Tuesday. Houck is a SUNY Cortland grad of the Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Studies Department. He was most recently the Senior Director of Community Impact at United Way of Tompkins County and has held leadership positions within the YMCA in several different cities. Houck also currently serves on the Board of Education for the Candor Central School District.

City officials say they’re confident in Houck’s ability to lead the department to new heights, citing his years of experience as an asset for the role.

“I am honored to be entrusted with this opportunity and look forward to working alongside the IYB staff as, together, we continue to build and grow opportunities for area youth and their families,” said Houck. “I eagerly await the chance to listen to and learn from staff, local youth, volunteers, local leaders, community members, collaborators, potential collaborators, supporters, and any other interested stakeholders as we develop a shared vision for future success.”