Jon Zella

Communications Manager

Jon Zella joined NCF in September 2024 with over 10 years of experience leveraging strategic communications to drive growth and awareness for nonprofits. As Communications Manager at NCF, Jon leads the communications strategy, working to elevate NCF’s mission and amplify the impact of our work across REEJ.

Jon’s journey began on Long Island, NY, and he earned both his BA and MA in history from SUNY Oswego. As a graduate student, Jon was a Festa Leadership Fellow, where he honed his skills in nonprofit management, grant writing, and communications at the Safe Haven Museum and Education Center, the only Jewish refugee camp in the United States during and after World War II.

His passion for history led him to the Onondaga Historical Association in 2014, where he quickly rose to the role of Director of Development and Marketing. Since 2019, Jon has served in development and communications capacities for several other nonprofits, including ACR Health, CNY Arts, and most recently, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington.

Jon currently resides in Syracuse, NY with his fiancée, Maggie, and their red heeler, Olive. Outside of work, you’ll find Jon on a hike, riding his mountain bike, cooking, playing hockey, or behind the drums.