Meet NJBIA’s Trustees

On Oct 9, 2025

Coming from a diverse range of industries and backgrounds, NJBIA’s Board of Trustees represents the diversity and strength of New Jersey’s business community. In this year-long series, we spotlight these leaders, delving into their professional lives, but more so their off-the-grid penchants and activities.

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Deanna Sperling

President & CEO, Barnabas Health Behavioral Health Center

Deanna Sperling, MAS, RN, NE-BC, is president and CEO of Barnabas Health Behavioral Health Center and senior vice president of behavioral health services for the RWJBH Behavioral Health Service Line. She began her career with Barnabas Health as a registered nurse in 1985 and has held several leadership positions during her 40-year tenure. As for accolades, Sperling has been recognized by Becker’s Healthcare in 2023, 2024 and 2025 as one of the women CEOs of hospitals and health systems to know. 

Making it a point to watch Jeopardy, whenever possible, Sperling says the show “is a great way to decompress after work, play along, and be challenged and intellectually stimulated.” 

During baseball season, she and her husband always root for the Mets. “Baseball has always been my favorite sport with lots of childhood nostalgia as I played it in my youth with the neighborhood kids,” she reminisces.

Sarah Switlik

President, Switlik Survival Products

Sarah Switlik is the president of Switlik Survival Products, a family-owned manufacturing company in Trenton that has been a leading innovator in safety and survival equipment since the 1920s. Originally starting as a small canvas and leather workshop, the company quickly became the nation’s largest parachute manufacturer by the 1930s. Today, Switlik has expanded its focus to the commercial market.

When she’s not busy managing Switlik, Sarah enjoys listening to music. Her preference is female singers with strong voices. “Adele was one of the best voices I’ve seen on stage, but the best performer is Beyonce,” Switlik says. “Her talent as a singer and entertainer is unmatched. I’ve been to several of her shows including her most recent tour!”

After a busy day, Switlik starts her second shift as a mother of two children. “It’s hard to find time to recharge, but my children give me energy and motivation along with a good workout,” she says.

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