“On Character” and Leadership Lessons with General Stanley McChrystal
June 13, 2025
On a sunny June morning, OceanFirst Foundation welcomed a record number of guests to The Mainland in Manahawkin for the biannual gathering of nonprofit CEOs and board leaders, featuring a morning of networking, learning, and a showcase of nonprofit social enterprises and sponsors.
The program featured a keynote address by General Stanley McChrystal, CEO and Chairman of the McChrystal Group. Drawing on his decades of military leadership, McChrystal’s shared stories from his latest book, On Character: Choices That Define a Life. He shared his belief that “character isn’t something inherited or bestowed by education or status. Instead, it emerges from a series of choices – some mundane, others monumental – that reveal our capacity for virtue.” The keynote was followed by a table talk between OceanFirst Foundation Chairman, Chris Maher, and General McChrystal that touched on inviting the next generation in leadership roles (do it now!), setting priorities (getting priorities right should be priority #1!), and living up to our beliefs.
“I found Christopher Maher’s speech to be so insightful and powerful, it really touched me. I feel like he really captured the sentiments that we need to hear today and that will bring people together, to reunite us, and motive and inspire us. Thank you to General McChrystal there could be no better person to exemplify leadership and character and to remind all of us of what’s important.” – Patricia Stush, Matheny Arts Access
We were honored to have students from Ocean County Vocational Technical School’s Academy of Law & Public Safety join us for the presentation of the colors and the flag salute and to have Ella Zarrilli, a Brick Children’s Community Theatre alumnus, deliver a beautiful performance of the national anthem.
“It was an incredible honor for the Ocean County Vocational Technical School’s Academy of Law and Public Safety (ALPS) Honor Guard to present the colors at OceanFirst Foundation’s Summer Gathering of Nonprofit CEOs and Board Members,” said Dr. Michael Maschi, Assistant Superintendent of Ocean County Vocational Technical School. “Our students are preparing to enter careers in law enforcement and public service at a time when public sentiment can be challenging. To hear directly from General Stanley McChrystal—a leader who embodies integrity, resilience, and the true meaning of service—was not only inspiring but affirming. His message reminded them why they chose this path and the importance of leading with character. We are deeply grateful to OceanFirst Foundation for giving our students this unforgettable opportunity.” – Dr. Michael B. Maschi, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Ocean County Vocational Technical School
Stay tuned for more details on our Winter Gathering coming December 19th!
