Today we shine our spotlight on new Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo (JCC) president Sheryl Schechter. A practicing social work counselor, Sheryl received a BA in Psychology, followed by a Master of Social Work degree from the University at Buffalo.
The seeds of Sheryl’s passion became her present career, as she supported her mother’s experience as a person living with dementia. After her mother’s passing, Sheryl contacted the Alzheimer’s Association to volunteer her services, which she continues to do to this day. She works with the elderly and aging, people living with dementia and with families of persons living with dementia. Sheryl’s mantra is to work with dignity and respect, which she carries into all other aspects of her life.
Sheryl grew up in Niagara Falls with a small Jewish population, and the only Jewish experiences she had were through her synagogue. But as a young person, the JCC provided a larger Jewish population through Camp Lakeland and ultimately the place where she met her husband, Jonathan, befriending him when they were campers.
As JCC president, Sheryl believes that the professional staff is key in both the success of the JCC and its work as the town square of our community. Her mission is to get to know the staff, who they are and what they care about, and be a supportive presence. You will see Sheryl in the lobby of the JCC chatting with our early childhood staff, our fitness professionals, the people at our member services desk and all who work there.
Sheryl works to live her life with a foundation of Jewish values, and her goal is to bring that sensibility to her role at the JCC. Patty Simonson, CEO of the JCC said, “We are looking forward to seeing Sheryl’s leadership support this exciting period of growth at the J. Her passion and history with the JCC coupled with her skills and values make her the right person for this time.”
