The Mayerson JCC announces Chief Programming Officer Holly Wolfson as its next Chief Executive Officer. Wolfson will succeed Marc Fisher, who has served as CEO for 13 years and will retire in late 2025. She will assume this position on October 1 and Fisher will stay on for a transition period.
Wolfson was hired after an extensive national search, which began in January after Fisher announced his plans to retire. The search committee worked closely with Gilman Partners, a leading executive search firm, to conduct a nationwide search, and unanimously recommended Wolfson to the Board of Trustees.
“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 Board President Jen Stein.
“Through a process that was rigorous, deeply thoughtful, and values-driven, Holly continually rose to the top,” commented Carrie Darsky, JCC Association Chief Talent Officer, 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.”
Wolfson brings great passion and a wealth of experience to the role, with a proven track record of success at the JCC over the past 10 years. She joined the staff of the JCC in 2015 as a programming officer in Cultural Arts and quickly advanced to Chief Programming Officer, becoming an integral part of the JCC’s management team in 2022. Holly is a proud University of Cincinnati alumni, with a BA in Communications. She is a Wexner Heritage Program alumni and graduate of the Mandel Executive Leadership Program.
“It is an incredible honor to be entrusted with the opportunity to lead the Mayerson JCC into its next chapter,” Wolfson commented. “This community holds a special place in my heart, and I am deeply grateful to work alongside such passionate professionals and engaged community members. I look forward to building on our strong foundation and advancing the J’s mission in bold, meaningful ways.”
Bob Oestreicher, Search Committee Chair and Board President-Elect, commented, “Holly showed us, at every turn during the search process, that she is the right person to lead our JCC. I’m extremely grateful to my fellow committee members for the time and care they poured into the search, assuring an outcome that best positions the JCC to thrive and grow in the years to come.”
Fisher echoed those sentiments. “I am thrilled that, after such an extensive process, the Board has aligned on Holly as the JCC’s next leader. In her 10 years here, Holly has helped make our JCC one of the top Jewish community centers in the country. She has a clear and exciting vision for the continuing evolution of the J and a deep respect for its unique and welcoming culture.”
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Founded in 1932, the Mayerson JCC connects people so that they can live happier and fuller lives, creating a more vibrant Jewish community. With a state-of-the-art fitness center, award-winning early childhood and senior centers, top arts and cultural events, and classes for people at every age, the JCC connects, enriches, and inspires more than 27,000 visitors per month. The JCC welcomes everyone, regardless of race, religion, or ability.
