Thursday, November 21, 2024 /St. Louis, Missouri – YWCA Metro St. Louis is pleased to announce the appointment of Anitra Cole as its new Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). With over 15 years of experience in human resources and a track record of driving innovation and success, Cole will lead YWCA’s HR strategy, including talent management, employee relations, policy creation, regulatory compliance, and overall strategic direction for the organization.
Anitra Cole brings a wealth of experience to YWCA Metro St. Louis, having transitioned from a decade-long career in accounting to human resources over 15 years ago. Her passion for problem-solving, supporting others’ growth, and engaging with a variety of work led to this career shift.
“I discovered that I enjoy the variety in my work, interacting with people, supporting others’ success, and solving problems,” Cole said, reflecting on the transition to human resources.
In her previous roles, Cole demonstrated her commitment to excellence. She is a dual-certified HR professional, holding certifications as a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and a SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP). During her tenure at St. Patrick Center, she led the organization to win its first St. Louis Post-Dispatch and USA Today Top Workplaces awards. She has also successfully implemented various human resource information systems (HRIS) and applicant tracking systems (ATS) projects. Additionally, Cole was honored with the prestigious 2017 President’s Award for Innovation while working at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
Cole’s academic credentials include a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from Webster University, and she is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Human Resource Management from Walden University.
In addition to her professional achievements, Cole is deeply committed to community service. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, where she co-chairs the Social Action Committee and serves on the Nominating Committee. She also serves on the University of Missouri-St. Louis Alumni Association Board of Directors and is a member of the Heartland Executive Leadership Council for Autism Speaks of St. Louis. Cole’s leadership in the autism community has been recognized nationally, as she has served as both the 2022 and 2023 St. Louis City Walk Chair for Autism Speaks and is an Advocacy Ambassador for the organization’s national office.
Her contributions to the community and her field have not gone unnoticed. In 2021, Cole was recognized in the “Black Women Leading the Way” spotlight, celebrating her leadership and dedication to her profession.
YWCA Metro St. Louis is the region’s leading advocate for the safety, security and stability of women and children, serving more than 10,000 women and families annually. The mission of YWCA is eliminating racism and empowering women. YWCA offers crisis services and rapid re-housing for victims of sexual and domestic violence; services for pregnant women, Head Start and Early Head Start early childhood education; career readiness and economic empowerment services for all clients; and racial justice educational programs.