The Gordon Jewish Community Center recently welcomed a familiar face back into a leadership role as Dara Freiberg returns to the organization as Interim Executive Director.
Many in the Nashville community remember Dara from her previous tenure at the J as Membership and Development Director. Over the past three and a half years, she has continued her involvement through service on the Board’s Executive Committee, most recently serving as Board President. Her return to day-to-day leadership marks both a professional homecoming and a personal one.
Dara and her husband Craig and two sons, Archer and Rory, have been deeply connected to the Gordon JCC throughout the 14 years they have lived in Nashville, participating in programs across nearly every area of the organization. She describes stepping into the interim role as a meaningful opportunity to support a community that has long been central to her family’s life.
Her leadership began during a challenging period for the J, as the facility navigated closures and recovery efforts following February’s severe ice storm. During that time, Dara worked closely with staff and leadership to help guide operations, maintain communication with the community, and support the organization through one of its most difficult moments. Colleagues note that her steady presence and familiarity with the J’s mission helped provide continuity during the transition.
A higher education and nonprofit development professional with more than 25 years of experience, Dara has held roles at institutions and organizations including Yale University, Emory University, the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival, the Frist Art Museum, and the Gordon JCC. Earlier in her career, she served as a Teach For America Corps Member in Washington, D.C., later continuing her work with the organization after completing the program.
Originally from Chicago, Dara holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Northwestern University. She currently serves as Immediate Past President of the University School of Nashville Association. Outside of her professional work, Dara and her dog Penny Lane are a certified pet therapy team, providing support to residents at Abe’s Garden Community and students at schools across the Nashville area, including Vanderbilt and Covenant.
As Interim Executive Director, Dara looks forward to continuing to strengthen the J’s role as a hub for connection, wellness, and community life in Nashville.
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