SCHENECTADY – The Schenectady Jewish Community Center (SJCC) announces that Ilene Friedman has been elected as board president. Friedman previously sat on the board as the vice president.

“We could not be happier to have Ilene Friedman as the president of the board. In her years on our board, she has already been a champion for our organization, helping to create connections and strengthen our mission. We are confident that Ilene will continue to lead the SJCC in building a vibrant, welcoming, and inclusive community that embraces our Jewish values, culture, identity, and connections to Israel, engages the local community, and enhances the body, mind and spirit of our members,” said David Posner, CEO of the JCC’s of the Capital Region.

Previously at The SJCC she was instrumental in raising funds for the Mike Palahnuk Pavilion.

Friedman planted roots in the Capital District after receiving her MBA at University at Albany. She eventually sold an Ecommerce business entitled Send Me Waffles, that she had created. She had made Belgian Liege waffles and mailed them directly to consumers. She specialized in customer service. After selling that business, she began a career at the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York as the director of stewardship and special projects. She has held various board positions including at the Jewish Federation, Hadassah Capital District, and the SJCC.

“The SJCC has been an important part of my family’s life since my children were infants. From childcare and aftercare to camp, and even on the pickleball courts where I’ve built meaningful connections, it has truly been a place where community comes to life. I’m grateful to now be joining this community in a new way, and I look forward to building authentic relationships with our members and staff while continuing to strengthen the sense of belonging that makes the SJCC so special” said Friedman.