Like a majority of people who join the Sid Jacobson Jewish Community Center in East Hills, James Buslik became a member to take advantage of the JCC's outstanding Early Childhood programming. Now 22 years later, Buslik finds himself leading the board of directors as the newly elected president.

Buslik, a resident of East Hills, becomes the 17th president of the JCC. He is succeeding Jerry Marsden, who served as president from 1999-2002. Buslik has been a dedicated and active JCC board member since 1987 and a part of the executive committee for the past six years, serving as secretary and for the last four years as vice president. His wife Debra is also a member of the executive committee, serving since 1999, first as assistant secretary and now as the newly elected secretary.

Prior to becoming president, Buslik had been chair and co-chair of the Jewish Maccabi Committee every year since the JCC sent its first delegation to the Maccabi Games in 1993. In 1999 the JCC honored Debra and James at the annual Journal Dinner Dance for their dedication and commitment to the values of the JCC and the community at large.

"In a span of over two decades, Jim has accomplished so much at the JCC. Prior to joining the executive committee, he was involved in the original building of the JCC in the 1980s, chaired teen and theatre committees, sat on finance, operations and nominating committees and chaired the Maccabi Committee from its inception. The JCC is thrilled to have such a devoted hard worker take on this new leadership role as president," said Susan Bender, JCC executive director.

Over time, Buslik has learned more about the accomplishments of the JCC such as early childhood services, sports and fitness programs and social services. After serving on the JCC's development committee, which oversaw the fundraising for the recent expansion of the Center, Buslik felt more enthusiastic about devoting additional quality time to an institution located within his backyard.

"By taking on the responsibility of president, I feel that I can have an immediate impact on the direction of the Sid Jacobson JCC. Over the years I have been involved, the JCC has grown into a full service center, serving various segments of the population. We added 29,000 square feet to the original building and renovated the existing space so more people could have a place to turn. I am hoping to work closely with our board of directors, professional staff and volunteers to continue offering the best possible programs and services to our community," said Buslik.

Buslik is no stranger to the title president. As principal at Adams & Company Real Estate LLC, a full service real estate firm serving New York City since 1920, he holds the title Office of the President. He is also a member of their executive and management committees, which help in the planning and decision making of the company. Buslik is also a member of the Men's and Women's Real Estate Association and the Real Estate Board of New York, where he serves on numerous committees. In addition, he serves on several committees within the Fashion Center Business Improvement District Board and is presently working on a plan to establish a new Business Improvement District within the Flatiron section of New York City. His past affiliations include being a member of the Young Men's Philanthropic League in New York City.

"Leadership is inspiring the people around you, for the JCC, my fellow board members, the staff and the thousands of members and non-members who walk through our doors each week. I want to set our agency apart from all the others. It must start at a committee level and influence the thinking of the Board of Directors. After all, as a leader you are only as good as those who surround you," said Buslik.

When not working or at the JCC, Buslik spends his time with his wife and three children Jeffrey, Bradley and Daniel. He is currently coaching Roslyn Booster Basketball and was a coach in the Roslyn Little League. Buslik is a big fan of sports, especially college basketball. He also enjoys playing golf. He is very passionate about his family, the people he works with and the JCC.