We are proud to introduce our founding members and executive board. It all started at the JPA Plaza Arts & Craft Fair on October 5, 2025. It is where Shaily and Debbie met and discussed the possibility of an arts council for the Hillsborough community.
She is deeply committed to strengthening local communities by creating opportunities for small businesses, artists, and nonprofit organizations to thrive.
Co-President / Treasurer
Deborah (Deb/Debbie) Fox is a commercial property manager, community volunteer, and former corporate finance professional with nearly two decades of experience. She currently serves as Property Manager, Property Owner / Partner at JPA Plaza in Hillsborough, New Jersey. Deb is passionate about supporting small businesses and fostering community engagement through initiatives such as open-air markets, artist shows, nonprofit expos, and craft fairs that connect local entrepreneurs, creatives, and residents.
During the years Deb focused on raising her children, she remained actively involved in volunteer leadership roles supporting schools, church programs, and youth scouting organizations. She continues to dedicate her time and expertise to nonprofit organizations, bringing strengths in financial management, technology, compliance, and digital marketing strategy and is currently involved in the following nonprofits: RV Habitat, Hearts of Hope Hillsborough, and Hillsborough Arts Council.
Prior volunteer roles include: Girl Scouts Leader / Service Unit Team, Religious Ed Instructor, and Home School Association Executive Board (President / Treasurer Officers positions). LinkedIn
Shaily is passionate about making the local art scene a welcoming space for everyone and helping fellow artists find their footing.
Co-President
Shaily Jha is a local of Hillsborough, New Jersey who wears a few different hats: artist, community supporter, and technology professional. Originally from Ranchi, India, she made the move to the U.S. after earning her Master’s in Computer Applications from VIT Vellore and spending some time working in the IT world.
Art has always been a big part of Shaily’s life. She’s formally trained in fine arts and has spent the last several years diving deep into traditional Indian folk styles like Mithila (Madhubani), Sohrai, and Manjusha. For her, art isn't just about the visuals; it’s a way to keep cultural stories and heritage alive.
Beyond the canvas, Shaily loves bringing people together. She’s spent over a decade volunteering with groups like the Bihar and Jharkhand Association(BJANA) and Maithils of North America(MONA), helping out with everything from local publications to organizing big community events.
Secretary
Ellen McCloskey