YOUNGSTOWN – Denise Wolf joined the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation as the Jewish Community Center’s executive director Jan. 28.

Previously, she was Chief Operating Officer for the J in Tuscon, Ariz. As COO, Wolf oversaw Early Childhood; Children, Youth & Camping Services; Health & Wellness; Special Needs Services; Art & Culture; and the day-to-day operations of the large agency.

Wolf is looking forward to meeting new people as well as creating programs for the community based on needs and interests.

Melissa Bateman, JCC advisory board chair, said, “Denise is a great addition to our JCC and I look forward to working with her.”

Prior to Tucson, Wolf lived in north central Florida and was the Executive Director at Congregation B’nai Israel and the Executive at The Bridge Center in MA, a recreational and equine center for individuals with special needs. She began her career at the North Shore JCC as the Assistant Aquatic Director and the Youth and Camping Services Director before heading to Brandeis for her Master’s Degree. Wolf graduated from University of Florida with a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Adapted Physical Education.

“Denise is a fantastic addition to our senior management team at the Federation,” said Andrew Lipkin, Federation CEO.

Wolf has two sons, Jake, 20, who studies at Northern Arizona University, and Cody, 18, who is finishing his senior year of high school.

The JCC, an agency of the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation, offers social, cultural, educational, and recreational programs in a Jewish environment. Everyone is welcome. For more information visit jccyoungstown.org.