WOODBRIDGE — Gary Geller has been appointed chief development officer of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, it was announced recently by Federation President Mark Sklarz. Geller will assume his new post on May 1. As chief development officer, he will be responsible for the Federation’s annual campaign.
Geller brings nearly thirty years of Jewish communal fundraising experience, both as a lay leader and professional. For the past nine years, he has served as vice president and campaign director for the United Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan and Darien.  Among his achievements, Geller developed two new campaign divisions, built a strong volunteer leadership base and expanded the reach of the annual campaign.
“I am delighted to welcome Gary to our community,” said Sklarz, in announcing Geller’s appointment. “His expertise and experience will enhance and advance our development achievements.”
“Gary brings with him a wealth of Jewish communal fundraising experience,” said Leslie Zackin, who was co-chair of the search committee along with Betsy Hoos. “With his guidance, we will be able to grow the Jewish Federation annual campaign so that it will continue to serve the needs of our Jewish community, both here in New Haven and abroad.”
A graduate of the University of Rochester, Geller received Master’s degrees from the Columbia University School of Social Work and the Jewish Theological Seminary.  In addition to his Jewish communal experience, he also worked in the financial sector for twelve years.
“I’ve been watching the New Haven Jewish Federation and its annual campaign for a number of years from the other end of the Merritt Parkway,” said Mr. Geller. “I always liked what I saw. This community has a lot to be proud of, and I am so thankful to have been invited to help lead its fundraising efforts.”