The Board of Directors at Rising Treetops at Oakhurst, a nonprofit organization that inspires confidence and joy in adults and children with special needs, has appointed Lauren Frary as Executive Director, effective January 20, 2026.
“We are delighted to welcome Lauren to the team,” said Marilyn Friedman, Board President at Rising Treetops at Oakhurst. “Her deep experience serving people with disabilities and in leadership roles makes her an excellent fit.”
Lauren Frary brings more than 36 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, organizational transformation, fundraising and mission-driven management. Most recently, Lauren served as Director of Strategic Business Transformation at Sax LLP, where she developed and led nonprofit and small business consulting practices, providing expertise in governance, fundraising, fiscal management, organizational assessments and strategic planning. Previously, she dedicated more than three decades to The Arc of Somerset County, including 15 years as Executive Director, where she oversaw a $20 million budget, managed complex grant portfolios, led large-scale fundraising and capital campaigns, built high-performing teams and advocated at the state and local level for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Lauren holds a BA in Psychology from Rutgers University and an MA in Counseling and Leadership from Montclair University.
“I am thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with the Board and staff of Rising Treetops at Oakhurst,” said Ms. Frary. “This legacy organization has deep roots in the community and an outstanding reputation of providing excellent services to the individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities they serve.”
This exciting hire could not have been possible without the deep commitment of Rising Treetops at Oakhurst’s Transition Committee, led by Ms. Friedman. Board Vice-President Andrew Marrus, Treasurer Robert Fagenson, Secretary Caitlin Bovo and Board members Joyce Nunziata and Andrea Scharf served on the Committee. Rising Treetops at Oakhurst’s staff team and other Board members contributed critical input throughout the process, and executive search firm DRG conducted the search.
Ms. Frary will succeed Interim Executive Director Diana Breen. An expert in interim leadership, Rising Treetops at Oakhurst is Ms. Breen’s eighth Interim Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer role. Together, Ms. Breen and Ms. Frary will ensure a seamless leadership transition, overlapping through February 6, 2026.
“Lauren brings a clear passion for our mission and serving people with disabilities,” said Ms. Breen. “Under her steady hand, Rising Treetops at Oakhurst is on the brink of an exciting new chapter.”
