(Courtesy of JFSGMW) Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ, the largest Jewish philanthropy in New Jersey and the eighth-largest federation in the United States, is proud to announce the appointment of Meredith Dragon as its new executive vice president and chief executive officer. Dragon joins the team from the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester, where she was a driving force for innovation, collaboration and community-building for a decade.
Michael Goldberg, president of the board of trustees of Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest, said: “On behalf of the board of trustees, we are excited to welcome Meredith to our community; her leadership, commitment to Israel, philanthropy and community align perfectly with our Federation’s mission. Meredith’s vision and collaborative spirit will strengthen our Federation locally and globally, building a vibrant and resilient Jewish future.”
Dragon is expected to begin her tenure in Greater MetroWest in early September. Interim CEO Steve Levy will continue in the role until that time.
Dragon said: “I am deeply honored to begin my tenure at this extraordinary moment in Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest NJ’s history. Following its remarkable Centennial year, I am inspired to lead this vibrant community into its next century by building on a legacy of strength, resilience, and impact. At a time of profound challenge and responsibility for the Jewish people, our work has never been more vital. Together, we will shape a future defined by unity, courage and unwavering commitment to Jewish life in Greater MetroWest NJ, Israel, and around the globe.”
Dragon brings more than two decades of transformative leadership, a deep commitment to Jewish communal life, and a forward-thinking strategic vision that will be instrumental in guiding Federation in its next chapter. A seasoned philanthropic leader, she is an advocate for Zionism and Israel education and has played a key role in the Jewish Federation of Greater Rochester’s crisis responses, deepening ties between global Jewry and the Jewish state.
Peter Langerman, co-chair of the search committee, expressed: “Our committee, which was comprised of representatives from various demographics from across the Greater MetroWest NJ community, was particularly impressed with Meredith’s ability to engage members of various constituencies, her desire to work collaboratively across communal organizations, and her deep knowledge of and commitment to the Federation system.”
Jane Wilf, co-chair of the search committee, added: “Meredith has a record of success in implementing a variety of strategic initiatives, building and sustaining effective teams and partnering with her volunteer leadership. After an exhaustive and comprehensive national search, we are confident that Meredith is the right person to lead our Federation for years to come.”
Prior to her role in Rochester, Dragon served as executive director of the Jewish Federation of Western Massachusetts. A graduate with honors from Bowdoin College, she is widely regarded as a respected voice in the national Jewish community. She currently lives in Rochester, New York with her husband and their three children.
