The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs, the largest volunteer women’s organization in the state, on Tuesday announced Shirley Holly of Barnegat as its new president.
Holly is joined on the executive leadership team by Barbara McCloskey of Rockaway, Susan Chambers of Oradell and Chris Sienkielewski of South Plainfield.
A clubwoman for 33 years, Holly has served on the NJSFWC board in various roles since 1998, as well as the national Generation Federation of Women’s Clubs board since 2002.
Her history of public service extends outside of the women’s clubs as well; she was president of the Barnegat Education Foundation for five years, PTA president for six years and a 13-year Girl Scout leader. Holly has volunteered for Emmanuel Cancer Foundation for 27 years and is a four-time puppy raiser for Canine Companions for Independence. Holly works full-time as a media specialist for Russell O. Brackman Middle School.
“I am honored to lead NJSFWC, an organization that has meant so much to me, for the next two years,” Holly stated. “Sisterhood and service are vital to our cultural fabric, especially as we come out of the pandemic and a time of strife and isolation. I look forward to bringing everyone together to support great causes and to grow our community for generations to come.”
Holly’s administration, which will run through May 2024, will support the Emmanuel Cancer Foundation for its special state project. The Emmanuel Cancer Foundation provides New Jersey families facing the crisis of pediatric cancer a place to turn for comfort and support through professional in-home counseling and a uniquely tailored package of assistance — all free of charge. Each year, ECF helps hundreds of families in New Jersey with a free package of support services. It assists any New Jersey family with a child who has cancer ages 0-18, regardless of race, creed, socioeconomic status or any other demographic restriction. It continues helping the families for as long as they need it, whether it be one month or 10 years. There are no applications, forms or other red tape for a family to deal with — it strives to make the delivery of services as quick and seamless as possible. To date, ECF has assisted over 2,000 families.
“I’m thrilled to have Barbara McCloskey, Susan Chambers and Chris Sienkielewski on my executive board. The diversity of their combined experiences — both as volunteer and professionals — will make a strong and dynamic team to grow our membership and inspire local New Jersey clubs to participate in all NJSFWC has to offer,” Holly said.
