Mayerson JCC names Wolfson next CEO

After a national search, the Mayerson JCC has named longtime staffer Holly Wolfson as its next chief executive officer.

Wolfson, the organization’s chief programming officer, will assume her new role Oct. 1. She’ll succeed Marc Fisher, who plans to retire in late 2025 after 13 years as CEO. Fisher will remain with the JCC for a transition period.

Her appointment follows a months-long process led by the executive search firm Gilman Partners and a committee of Mayerson JCC leaders. The board of trustees voted unanimously to approve the recommendation.

“Holly brings an intimate understanding of the JCC and this community and will build upon the J’s strong foundation while forging her own compelling vision for the future,” said Jen Stein, the board’s current president.

Veteran leader with deep community ties

Since joining the JCC in 2015 as a programming officer in cultural arts, Wolfson has steadily taken on greater leadership roles. She received a promotion to chief programming officer in 2022 and has played a key role on the organization’s senior management team.

A University of Cincinnati graduate with a degree in communications, Wolfson also completed the Wexner Heritage Program and the Mandel Executive Leadership Program – two prominent initiatives for Jewish communal leaders.

“It is an incredible honor to be entrusted with the opportunity to lead the Mayerson JCC into its next chapter,” Wolfson said in a statement. “This community holds a special place in my heart, and I am deeply grateful to work alongside such passionate professionals and engaged community members.”

Standing out from the field

Those who worked closely on the selection process said her leadership qualities consistently stood out.

“Holly continually rose to the top,” said Carrie Darsky, chief talent officer for the JCC Association of North America, who consulted on the search. “Her vision, steadiness, and ability to lead with both heart and clarity made it clear she is exactly the right leader for this moment.”

Board President-elect Bob Oestreicher, who chaired the search committee, credited the group’s thoughtful and inclusive approach.

“The committee invested time and care in the process to ensure we found the right person to lead the JCC into the future,” he said. “At every stage, Holly showed us she was that person.”

Fisher, who announced his retirement plans in January, voiced strong support for Wolfson and the transition plan overall.

“In her 10 years here, Holly has helped make our JCC one of the top Jewish community centers in the country,” he said. “She has a clear and exciting vision for the continuing evolution of the J and a deep respect for its unique and welcoming culture.”