Dr. Michael A. Kay Takes the Helm as CEO of UJA-Federation of New York
On May 12, 2026, the Board of Directors of UJA-Federation of New York made a significant announcement: Dr. Michael A. Kay has been appointed as the organization's new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), reflecting a unanimous decision by the board members. Dr. Kay will officially assume his role on October 5, 2026, succeeding Eric S. Goldstein, who has served as CEO for an impressive twelve years.
Dr. Kay brings a wealth of experience to this position, having dedicated the last thirteen years as Head of School at The Leffell School, which transformed into a leading multidenominational K-12 Jewish day school under his guidance. His tenure was marked by fostering an inclusive community, promoting respectful dialogue across differences, and enhancing academic excellence. His leadership led to increased enrollment and philanthropic support, which included collaborations with UJA's Day School Challenge Fund. He possesses a unique combination of strategic vision, intellectual depth, and compassionate leadership that positions him well to guide UJA in its forthcoming chapter.
A graduate of Harvard College, Dr. Kay earned his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Jewish Studies from New York University. His doctoral research specifically focused on leadership practices and community building in pluralistic Jewish institutions, which is particularly relevant to his new role at UJA. In addition to his previous role at The Leffell School, he has experience as Upper School Principal and Head of Judaic Studies at Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Maryland, showcasing a robust background in Jewish education and community engagement.
The anticipation surrounding Dr. Kay’s appointment has been echoed by various leaders within UJA. Linda Mirels, the UJA-Federation President, emphasized Dr. Kay’s distinct qualities as a leader, noting his intellectual prowess and commitment to Jewish life. Mirels expressed confidence that Dr. Kay is well-prepared to tackle critical challenges ahead, such as combatting rising antisemitism and fortifying Jewish identity and pride among younger generations. Similarly, Marc Rowan, Chair of the Board at UJA-Federation, praised Dr. Kay’s resilience and ability to address pressing communal issues, stating his leadership will fortify the Jewish community’s safety and unity.
Dr. Kay himself expressed a deep sense of duty and humility upon accepting this pivotal role, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the Jewish community. He conveyed a determination to listen and understand the aspirations of the community he aims to serve, alluding to a resurgence of Jewish commitments in testing times. He envisions a reinvigorated approach to engaging younger generations and deepening partnerships with Israel to cultivate a cohesive Jewish future.
Current CEO Eric S. Goldstein, who will remain in his position until October 4, reflected on his experiences leading UJA through challenging periods, such as global crises and rising antisemitism, and emphasized that Dr. Kay's capacity to unite diverse voices within the community will be invaluable in sustaining UJA's significant initiatives.
Dr. Kay’s appointment was the culmination of a comprehensive search process, overseen by a 14-member committee comprising various influential figures associated with UJA. The committee, after evaluating over 40 potential candidates, unanimously chose Dr. Kay as their preferred leader for this vital role.
Residing in White Plains, New York, with his wife Rachel and their two children, Dr. Kay is actively engaged in his local community, underscoring his commitment to serving others. His leadership philosophy and history suggest that UJA-Federation of New York is not just looking towards continuity in its mission but also towards innovative collaborations and resilient community-building initiatives as it welcomes Dr. Kay into his new position.
Dr. Kay brings a wealth of experience to this position, having dedicated the last thirteen years as Head of School at The Leffell School, which transformed into a leading multidenominational K-12 Jewish day school under his guidance. His tenure was marked by fostering an inclusive community, promoting respectful dialogue across differences, and enhancing academic excellence. His leadership led to increased enrollment and philanthropic support, which included collaborations with UJA's Day School Challenge Fund. He possesses a unique combination of strategic vision, intellectual depth, and compassionate leadership that positions him well to guide UJA in its forthcoming chapter.
A graduate of Harvard College, Dr. Kay earned his Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Jewish Studies from New York University. His doctoral research specifically focused on leadership practices and community building in pluralistic Jewish institutions, which is particularly relevant to his new role at UJA. In addition to his previous role at The Leffell School, he has experience as Upper School Principal and Head of Judaic Studies at Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Maryland, showcasing a robust background in Jewish education and community engagement.
The anticipation surrounding Dr. Kay’s appointment has been echoed by various leaders within UJA. Linda Mirels, the UJA-Federation President, emphasized Dr. Kay’s distinct qualities as a leader, noting his intellectual prowess and commitment to Jewish life. Mirels expressed confidence that Dr. Kay is well-prepared to tackle critical challenges ahead, such as combatting rising antisemitism and fortifying Jewish identity and pride among younger generations. Similarly, Marc Rowan, Chair of the Board at UJA-Federation, praised Dr. Kay’s resilience and ability to address pressing communal issues, stating his leadership will fortify the Jewish community’s safety and unity.
Dr. Kay himself expressed a deep sense of duty and humility upon accepting this pivotal role, recognizing the unique challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for the Jewish community. He conveyed a determination to listen and understand the aspirations of the community he aims to serve, alluding to a resurgence of Jewish commitments in testing times. He envisions a reinvigorated approach to engaging younger generations and deepening partnerships with Israel to cultivate a cohesive Jewish future.
Current CEO Eric S. Goldstein, who will remain in his position until October 4, reflected on his experiences leading UJA through challenging periods, such as global crises and rising antisemitism, and emphasized that Dr. Kay's capacity to unite diverse voices within the community will be invaluable in sustaining UJA's significant initiatives.
Dr. Kay’s appointment was the culmination of a comprehensive search process, overseen by a 14-member committee comprising various influential figures associated with UJA. The committee, after evaluating over 40 potential candidates, unanimously chose Dr. Kay as their preferred leader for this vital role.
Residing in White Plains, New York, with his wife Rachel and their two children, Dr. Kay is actively engaged in his local community, underscoring his commitment to serving others. His leadership philosophy and history suggest that UJA-Federation of New York is not just looking towards continuity in its mission but also towards innovative collaborations and resilient community-building initiatives as it welcomes Dr. Kay into his new position.
Topics People & Culture）
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