Barbara Merson

Barbara Merson is an experienced leader in nonprofit management, currently serving as a Consultant and Speaker at Colby College since January 2019. Previously, Barbara was the Executive Director of the Maine Jewish Film Festival from September 2016 to December 2022, where major responsibilities included strategic planning, program implementation, and extensive fundraising efforts. As Executive Director at Shaaray Tefila from 2008 to 2016, Barbara managed a $4 million budget focused on community building through education. Prior roles include Assistant Executive Director at Stamford JCC, where financial oversight and operational capacity were enhanced, and Executive Director at ISEF Foundation, recognized for significant fundraising accomplishments. Barbara also served as Chief Operating Officer at Slifka Family Enterprises, developing a private foundation focused on education and social responsibility. Academically, Barbara holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Lesley University and multiple advanced degrees in Jewish Education, Finance, and English Language and Literature.