Momentum, the global movement dedicated to empowering Jewish women and strengthening Jewish families and communities, is pleased to announce the appointment of Tara Brown as its next chief executive officer. Brown will assume the role in October, succeeding longtime CEO Ben Pery, who will conclude a distinguished 13-year tenure.
Brown brings nearly two decades of professional leadership in the Jewish community. She has served on the senior staff of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), where she has held multiple high-impact roles, including mid-atlantic regional director and, most recently, national director of development training and education, launching new initiatives to expand AIPAC’s reach and resources.
“Tara is a dynamic leader, strategist and fundraiser,” said Connie Lindenauer, president of Momentum’s board of directors. “But what makes her uniquely qualified and especially authentic as a Momentum leader is that her personal journey mirrors our mission. She is living proof that a transformational trip to Israel can change a life, a career and a family’s trajectory.”
A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish continuity, Brown has dedicated her career to strengthening the U.S.–Israel relationship, advancing Jewish communal life and mentoring the next generation of Jewish communal professionals. Earlier in her career, she served as assistant director of development at the University of Maryland School of Law and as director of finance for a Maryland congressional campaign.
“I have long admired Momentum’s ability to inspire Jewish women worldwide,” Brown said. “I am honored to build on this extraordinary foundation and to guide the organization’s next chapter of growth and impact.”
A New Jersey native and longtime Maryland resident, Brown is deeply rooted in the Baltimore Jewish community. She serves on the board of directors of Beth Tfiloh Congregation, is an active parent at the Beth Tfiloh Dahan Community School and supports The Associated, Baltimore’s Jewish Federation.
Brown will work closely with Pery and the Momentum executive team to ensure a seamless transition. The Board is fully engaged in supporting this next chapter with gratitude and purpose.
“Tara’s leadership comes at a pivotal moment—one that calls for clarity, strength and vision,” added Debbie Hochberg, immediate past president. “With her at the helm, Momentum will continue to uplift Jewish women and families across the globe.”
