The board of the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades is proud to announce the appointment of Sue Gelsey as its CEO.
Gelsey has been part of the JCC family for more than 30 years, serving in roles ranging from teen director and camp director to COO, and later returning as chief engagement officer. Among many accomplishments, she helped lead the 2003 JCC Maccabi Games, the largest community event in the organization’s history. Beyond Tenafly, she held senior leadership roles at organizations including the JCC Association of North America, where she supported 177 JCCs during the COVID-19 pandemic and launched an online professional conference for over 3,000 professionals.
“The Board conducted a national search to find a leader whose values and vision align with our community,” said Michael Kollender, board chair, in a press release. “While we reviewed a strong pool of candidates, it became clear that the best choice was someone who already knows and loves this JCC deeply. Sue’s leadership, experience, and devotion to this community make her the right person to lead us into the future.
“Since the tragic passing of Steve Rogers in January 2025, Gelsey has been serving as interim CEO, guiding the JCC with steadiness and vision. Membership is thriving, programs are flourishing, and partnerships are strengthening across the community. Together with the board and senior leadership, she launched a culture of philanthropy that’s reshaping how the JCC engages supporters, and she has kept strong focus on the major building projects and bold initiatives that will define the JCC’s next chapter. The JCC’s position as the Jewish Town Square has never been stronger.”
The Future of the JCC
“For more than 30 years, I’ve been inspired by the Kaplen JCC’s unique mission: to be the central address for the widest definition of the Jewish people and to create a community that welcomes all,” said Sue Gelsey. “The JCC has always been a place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together. I am committed to ensuring our JCC continues to thrive as a home for joyful Jewish life, a center of excellence, and an agency that confronts and combats Jew-hatred. This includes standing with Israel and supporting our strong and growing Israeli-American community, while working with the broader community to disrupt hate in all its forms.”
The announcement comes at a pivotal moment as the Kaplen JCC celebrates its 75th anniversary, culminating in a gala event on November 15, 2025. Looking ahead to the next chapter, the JCC is launching ambitious plans through its capital campaign and innovative approaches to building deeper community connections, ensuring that it will continue to make a meaningful impact for the generations to come.
