Congratulations to Our 2025 Daniel Thursz Distinguished Jewish Communal Service Award Winner – Barak Hermann, Jewish Community Center

This award was created in 2000 to honor and recognize Dr. Daniel Thursz for his achievements as former Dean of the University of Maryland School of Social Work and co-founder of the Darrell D. Friedman Institute for Professional Development (formerly BIJCS). He also had served as former Executive Vice President of B’nai B’rith International.

This award pays tribute to the invaluable contributions of an individual who has worked in the field of Jewish communal service for at least 20 years and is currently serving the greater Baltimore community. The individual has demonstrated leadership, exemplary professional skills, and a lifelong commitment to the field.

Click here to view previous winners of The Daniel Thursz Distinguished Jewish Communal Service Award.

Barak Hermann, CEO – Jewish Community Center of Greater Baltimore

Barak Hermann is a visionary leader in Jewish communal service with over 30 years of experience driving strategic growth, innovation, and inclusivity. As CEO of the JCC of Greater Baltimore since 2012, he has transformed programming, expanded partnerships, and strengthened Jewish engagement. His leadership has launched initiatives like J Camps, the 4Front Jewish Teen Initiative, and J Life Family Engagement, significantly impacting Jewish life across generations. He spearheaded the revitalization of the Gordon Center for Performing Arts, enhanced cross-sector collaborations, and secured critical funding for JCC expansion. Committed to diversity and inclusion, Barak has fostered an environment where all Jewish identities feel valued. Named one of Maryland’s most inspiring CEOs in 2022, his leadership blends tradition with innovation, ensuring a vibrant future for the Jewish community. His dedication, vision, and impact make him a deserving recipient of the Daniel Thursz Distinguished Jewish Communal Service Award.