Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis names Rebecca Schalit-Newman as Chief Executive Officer

The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis (JFGI) has announced that its Board of Directors has voted to appoint Rebecca Schalit-Newman as Chief Executive Officer, effective Sept. 6.

Schalit-Newman joined JFGI as its Chief Development Officer in 2023 and was promoted to Deputy Executive Director in March 2026.

Schalit-Newman brings more than a decade of progressive leadership in Jewish communal organizations to the role, including senior development posts at the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, American Friends of Tel Aviv University, and URJ Goldman Union Camp Institute.

During her tenure at JFGI, Schalit-Newman has helped drive significant growth in the Federation’s philanthropic impact while broadening engagement across the entire community. Under her leadership, the Annual Campaign has grown 18 percent, she has secured more than $750,000 in new major-gift revenue, including a transformational $500,000 endowment gift, and she has strengthened Women’s Philanthropy through a new co-chair and committee structure that has expanded philanthropic leadership and participation. She has also built stronger relationships across the broader community, engaging donors, families, volunteers, emerging leaders, and community partners in the Federation’s mission and creating new opportunities for people to connect with, contribute to, and shape the future of Jewish life in Indianapolis.

“The Federation conducted a national search for our new leader, and it turned out that the perfect candidate was already right here, serving our Jewish community in so many positive, productive ways,” said Miriam Dant, board president of the Jewish Federation. “Rebecca has the knowledge and relationships to keep our momentum going from day one, and the vision to shape the future of Federation and the Indianapolis Jewish community. I could not be more pleased to share this news today.”

“Indianapolis is my home, and this community has shaped who I am,” said Schalit-Newman. “I arrived at the Federation with a clear conviction: that this organization was poised for real growth and impact, and that conviction has only deepened over the past three years. My commitment to this work is personal – I want my children, and the generations after them, to grow up with a strong and meaningful Jewish life here. I’m honored to build on the foundation we’ve laid and to lead us into what comes next.”

Schalit-Newman succeeds Todd Maurer, who has served as interim CEO since March and has led the Federation’s day-to-day operations through the transition.

“We are confident Rebecca is the right person to lead JFGI at this moment,” said Beth Klapper, co-chair of the search committee. “She brings energy, vision and a demonstrated ability to strengthen community engagement, while also understanding the importance of listening and working collaboratively. We believe she will build on the Federation’s strong foundation and help create new opportunities for people throughout our community to connect, participate and lead.”

Klapper added, “We are exceptionally grateful to Todd for stepping up to lead the Federation during this important period of transition. Todd took on the CEO responsibilities in addition to his other professional work, giving generously of his time, energy and leadership to ensure that JFGI remained focused on serving our community and advancing its mission. He provided stability and continuity at a time when that leadership was particularly important.”

About the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis
The Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis is the central address for Jewish life in the region, connecting, mobilizing, and inspiring the community to care for those in need locally and in Israel, strengthen Jewish identity, and build a vibrant Jewish life. JFGI supports a broad network of programs and services with local agencies, partners and synagogues. For more information, visit jewishindianapolis.org.