Welcoming New Board Member - Sandrine Wiedenkeller-Lichy

Sandrine Wiedenkeller-Lichy officially joined the PYN Board of Directors this winter as its newest member. Sandrine is a dynamic finance executive and nonprofit leader with a track record of driving strategic growth, financial sustainability, and operational effectiveness. Over her career, she has held senior leadership roles at Swiss Re, Vanguard, Xerox, and GE Capital, where she led billion-dollar financial operations, global risk management initiatives, enterprise-wide technology-driven transformations, and large-scale mergers and acquisitions.

Sandrine has dedicated her expertise to strengthening nonprofit organizations, serving as a board member, strategic advisor, and funding expert for high-impact initiatives focused on youth empowerment, financial literacy, community development, mental health, and environmental sustainability.

“Sandrine is a great addition to the board. She is passionate about mission-driven work and has deep experience in the youth empowerment space. Her financial acumen and commitment to social impact will help us both operationally and strategically.” said Wendy-Anne Roberts-Johnson, President & CEO, Philadelphia Youth Network.

Since moving from Paris to the U.S. in her early 20s, Sandrine’s mission is simple: to bring people together to build strong, resilient communities where everyone can thrive. Sandrine holds advanced degrees in finance, economics, and industrial engineering and is an advocate for innovation in both the corporate and nonprofit sectors. A self-described lifelong learner and community champion, Sandrine finds inspiration in traveling, meeting people from all over the world, writing, and mentoring future leaders.

“I was drawn to PYN because of its commitment to creating equitable opportunities for young people through workforce development. When I was 21, I moved from Paris to Detroit with little money and limited English, but my education and the support of mentors helped me build a successful career in finance,” Sandrine said. “With my background in financial strategy, operational effectiveness, and nonprofit leadership, joining the board allows me to give back and help ensure every young person in Philadelphia has access to meaningful career pathways.”

The Board assists PYN through strategic planning and implementation, creating a vision for the future, and connecting the organization and young people to new resources and opportunities. The Board’s Development and Governance committees are action-driven groups within the board. All board members are also tasked with promoting PYN, advocating for both youth workforce development initiatives and funding.