YOUNGSTOWN – Eric Murray, Youngstown Area Jewish Federation executive director of senior living, recently received the Association of Jewish Aging Services Young Executive Award.
The award recognizes his commitment and management excellence as executive director.
“I have tremendous gratitude for the nomination and recognition of the work we are doing for our seniors here at the Youngstown Area Jewish Federation,” Murray said. “I have a great team, and I am proud to be a part of it while being in a position to advocate for great care and services. The collective vision and mission of AJAS inspires me to make sure we are doing our part. Having Nancy [Wagner, Youngstown Area Jewish Federation human services advisory board chair] present the award was a real bonus as she’s journeyed with me over some challenging and exciting times over the last five years.”
Murray took on the role at the federation in March 2020, about a week before the world shut down due to Covid-19. With his feet barely on the ground, he led his team to gather equipment, create policies and move residents to private rooms to protect the residents of both facilities. As a result, there were no resident or staff cases of Covid for 18 months.
During his time at the federation, Murray has led a $4.5 million expansion of a new nursing wing and a state-of-the-art rehabilitation center. Additionally, he reopened Adult Day Services and expanded its enrollment.
Wagner nominated Murray for the award.
“Eric’s calm demeanor and thoughtful decision-making has led him to exceed expectations and create positive relationships with staff, colleagues and his volunteer board,” she said. “Eric can be identified with excellence, compassion and commitment.”