Barry Mael officially joined USCJ on July 1, 2002, but his journey to the organization was already shaped by years of deep involvement in Jewish communal life. Before coming to USCJ, Barry spent 15 years working within the JCC movement and later served as the Executive Director of the Marlboro Jewish Center. Those experiences grounded him in synagogue life and community building—but they also sparked a desire to think bigger.
“I loved the work I was doing locally,” Barry reflected, “but I was ready to contribute on a more global scale. USCJ offered the opportunity to impact congregations and leaders across an entire region, and that really appealed to me.”
Barry’s first role at USCJ was as the New Jersey Regional Director, a position that allowed him to work closely with congregations, clergy, and lay leaders while also shaping regional strategy. From the outset, he brought both creativity and a practical mindset to the role.
When asked which moments from his time at USCJ immediately come to mind, Barry pointed to initiatives that strengthened community and connection. He was instrumental in creating a regional awards dinner to celebrate leadership and commitment, launching a regional newsletter to improve communication, and organizing a golf outing in partnership with Men’s Clubs—an event that combined fundraising, relationship-building, and fun. Each project reflected his belief that strong relationships are the foundation of a healthy movement.
Over the years, Barry witnessed—and helped navigate—significant shifts within USCJ. One of the most notable changes was the organization’s increasing use of technology to reach and support congregations.
“The move from primarily in-person engagement to online connection didn’t start with COVID,” he noted. “We were already seeing the value of technology as a way to bring more people together, across geography and schedules.” That early adoption paid off, especially as virtual programming made it possible for more leaders and professionals to connect, collaborate, and learn from one another.
For Barry, this shift was not just a logistical change but a philosophical one. Virtual programs lowered barriers to participation and expanded USCJ’s reach, reinforcing the idea that the movement is strongest when access is broad and inclusive.
When asked what USCJ does particularly well, Barry didn’t hesitate. He highlighted the organization’s support of congregations during moments of transition—especially through personnel changes, staff support, and rabbinical searches. He also pointed to leadership development initiatives, like Sulam, as a critical investment in the future.
“Helping leaders grow—both professional and lay—has always been central to USCJ’s mission,” he said. “When you strengthen leaders, you strengthen communities.”
On a more personal level, Barry shared that some of his most meaningful memories aren’t tied to specific programs or milestones, but to relationships. Over the years, he has stayed connected with countless lay leaders and professionals who often reach out to share updates and successes.
“It’s incredibly gratifying to see people step into leadership, grow in confidence, and make a real impact,” he reflected. “Watching that evolution—and knowing you played a small part in it—has been one of the greatest rewards of this work.”
When asked what lessons from his experience feel most relevant today, Barry offered advice that is simple but powerful: “Say little and do much.” He emphasized the importance of follow-through—of not just making promises, but delivering on them, and even going beyond expectations. Sometimes, he noted, that means making the extra phone call or taking the time to check in personally.
Looking at USCJ today, Barry is excited by the organization’s continued efforts to build a more cohesive movement. He sees real momentum in bringing together congregations, leaders, and institutions under a shared vision, working more collaboratively than ever before.
As for how he hopes to be remembered, Barry shared that he wants people to think of him as a reliable, thoughtful professional—someone who was willing to try new and innovative ideas, treated others with respect, and consistently showed up for the communities he served.
In closing, Barry expressed deep gratitude for the people he has worked alongside throughout his career. “I’ve been incredibly fortunate to work with gifted professionals and passionate leaders,” he said. “I truly feel blessed to have spent my career surrounded by amazing people who continue to make a meaningful impact on the Jewish world.”
