Tag: leadership development

They came from Toronto, California, Texas, Ohio, New York, and everywhere in between to Baltimore, Maryland, earlier this month for the 2025 JPro (Jewish Professionals) Conference. Organized by Leading Edge in partnership with the Jewish Federations of North America, this landmark gathering of more than 1,300 Jewish communal leaders was more than just a conference—it became a vibrant hub for connection, learning, and inspiration.

“Through every conversation, it became clear: my ‘why’ is about creating engagement opportunities that bring people into the fold.”
— Erin Dreyfuss, Transformation Manager, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

For many, the JPro Conference was a space to reflect on how to deepen their impact and strengthen the Jewish community, both professionally and personally.

Highlights and Innovations

The conference was a unique opportunity to hear from a diverse array of speakers, each contributing their perspective on how Jewish values and leadership intersect in today’s world:

• Anne Neuberger, former Deputy National Security Advisor, brought a wealth of knowledge on security and leadership.
• Daniel Vaknin, a survivor of the Nova Music Festival attack, shared his powerful story of resilience.
• Alex Edelman, the Tony- and Emmy-winning comedian, added humor and heart, reminding everyone of the power of storytelling.
• Adam Neuman, Baltimore Ravens Chief of Staff, spoke about leadership in sports, showing that Jewish values have far-reaching influence.
• DJ Daniel Vaknin, who performed at the Nova Festival, used music to reflect on the power of culture in healing.

These featured speakers came to Baltimore from diverse backgrounds and brought with them a wide range of professional experiences. While not all of them work directly within the “Jewish world,” each has found meaningful ways to live Jewishly in their chosen careers. Their stories highlight how their Jewish values and education have helped shape their identities and contributed to their success as professionals and individuals.

“In a world that often feels divided, being in a space filled with passionate, thoughtful people committed to the greater good of our Jewish community was truly powerful.”
— Shira Pomerantz, Development Associate, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

The conference wasn’t just about learning—it was about reconnecting with the heart of the work.

Many Paths, Shared Purpose: A Community Reunited

This year’s theme, “Many Paths, Shared Purpose: Crafting Sacred Communities Together,” was particularly poignant, given the recent global challenges that have shaped the Jewish communal experience. The conference was the first held since the tragic events of October 7, 2023, which added a layer of reflection to the gathering.

In session after session, Jewish professionals from across the country shared insights into the evolving landscape of Jewish nonprofits.

“The connections I made at JPro25 are already sparking collaborations that will strengthen our local impact.”
— Udi Eitan, Associate Director of Israel Engagement, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

From tackling antisemitism to navigating the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, the discussions were raw, meaningful, and solutions-driven.

But it wasn’t just about the big issues—it was also about the little moments of connection.

“JPro reminded me of the value of shared learning and connection. It’s essential for both personal growth and community strength.”
— Dana Bornstein, Senior Director of Leadership, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

Whether through intimate workshops or networking over lunch, the conference offered rich, human interactions that transcended the professional realm.

The Personal Impact: Voices from Federation Delegates

Many from the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington left the conference feeling not just professionally recharged but personally affirmed.

“It was inspiring to see so many people coming together to build a better Jewish world. I’ve grown both personally and professionally.”
— Samantha Glossman, Communications Manager, Jewish Federation of Greater Washington

For Samantha and others, the conference was a reminder of why they do what they do—helping to build a vibrant Jewish future.

“The professional talent in the Jewish communal world is essential to building thriving Jewish communities. That’s why Jewish Federations are committed to developing talent for the entire Jewish community, not just Federations.”
— Shira Hutt, Executive Vice President, Jewish Federations of North America

Shira Hutt’s words resonated deeply with many attendees, reaffirming the collective commitment to nurturing talent and leadership within the Jewish community.

What’s Next for Jewish Communal Leadership?

Looking ahead, Jewish nonprofits stand at a crossroads. With over 75% of Jewish nonprofits expected to need new senior leaders in the coming years, the need for emerging leadership is more urgent than ever.

“The effectiveness of an organization is directly tied to the strength of its leadership.”
— Rachel Garbow Monroe, President and CEO, Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation

As Rachel Garbow Monroe noted in an Op-ed for eJewish Philanthropy, conferences like JPro are pivotal in preparing the next generation of Jewish leaders.

On the local front, the Jewish Talent Project aims to turn Greater Washington into a hub for Jewish communal talent. Spearheaded by former Federation president Philip Margolius, this new initiative seeks to improve working conditions, offer professional development opportunities, and foster better communication within Jewish organizations.

“We sang, we laughed, we cried, we dug deep, and we unplugged. I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect weekend or a more inspiring group of women.”

Baltimore, MD — They arrived carrying snacks, tote bags, and just a little hesitation. For many, it was their first time stepping away—from routines, from responsibilities, from the noise of the everyday—to join a retreat they weren’t quite sure how to describe.

By the end of the WOW (Women of Wisdom) Shabbat Experience, they were finishing each other’s sentences.

Held in a quiet, wooded corner of Maryland, the retreat brought together a multigenerational group of Jewish women from across the region for a weekend of reflection, connection, and leadership-building. The agenda wasn’t just about workshops or wellness—it was about making space. Space to show up, speak up, and let go of everything else for just long enough to feel present.

Thunderstorms rolled in. Laughter broke out. Tears were shared, and so were shoes. Somewhere between the circle discussions and late-night conversations, something shifted. Uncertainty gave way to something steadier: community.

The presence of seasoned professionals like Federation President Robin Hettleman Weinberg, Kerry Iris, and Wendy Feldman Block added a deeper layer to the experience. Their openness and wisdom underscored what many participants felt: that the power of WOW came not just from the setting, but from who was in the room—and how willing they were to show up for one another.

Guided by the grounded, thoughtful leadership of Rabbi Sarah Krinsky of Adas Israel Congregation and co-chairs Danielle Traub and Mollie Bowman, the retreat struck a rare balance: structured and spiritual, intentional and inclusive, and filled with Jewish learning! These leaders didn’t just organize the weekend—they joined it. Fully.

As the women packed up their bags and returned to their homes, they carried more than just takeaways. They carried new relationships. New perspective. And a shared sense that something meaningful had started—and no one wanted it to end.

The buzz is already building— email ilana.matheson@shalomdc.org to learn how to be part of what’s next.

The Phyllis Margolius Family Foundation is thrilled to announce that Jennifer Scher has been named as the recipient of the 2025 Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award. Scher was selected by the committee for her work to foster support for Israel as Vice President of the MidAtlantic Region for Friends of the IDF (FIDF).

Scher is the third recipient of the Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award, given annually to a Jewish communal professional who echoes the character, inspiration, and determination of its namesake, Phyllis Ann Goldman Margolius. Phyllis cared deeply about strengthening the Jewish community in Washington, D.C., Israel, and around the world. Where others saw problems, she saw opportunities and solutions, pushing the needle forward and motivating those around her to do the same.

As part of the award, Scher will receive an $18,000 cash prize for her dedication to empowering Jewish identity and building meaningful connections to Israel.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award,” said Jennifer Scher. “Phyllis was a dynamic and transformative leader, and I am privileged to be associated with someone who was such a champion of Jewish life, Israel, and community. Since 2006, the Greater Washington, DC community has mentored and nurtured my professional growth. I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and guidance of my lay and professional partners, who have been by my side for nearly 20 years. On October 8, 2023, in the heartbreak of tragedy and fog of war, I told my husband, ‘I am in this job at FIDF, in this moment, for a reason, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.’”

Scher has served as the Vice President of the MidAtlantic Region for FIDF for three years, where she champions Israel’s soldiers and educates communities on Israel’s security challenges. Under her guidance, FIDF has established a strong young leadership cohort, growing young Jews’ connection to Israel. She also spearheaded the establishment of a WhatsApp group that provides ongoing updates and briefings, gathered Lone Soldier parents to support them while their children are at war, and helped organize Legacy Camp, a program bringing children from IDF bereaved families to Capital Camps.

Prior to FIDF, Scher was the Director of Community Advancement at Gesher Jewish Day School and the Director of Northern Virginia Engagement at The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. She is an active member of Congregation Olam Tikvah and a longtime parent at Gesher Jewish Day School and Capital Camps.

“In a time where community is needed, Jennifer is making a way, especially for young people to come together to help support and talk about Israel and Jewish community in a post-October 7 world,” said Selection Committee Member Josh Maxey. “When Jennifer speaks, I see a person committed to continue serving her community and ensuring we have the next generation of exemplary leaders.”

The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington has been an invaluable partner in the fulfillment of this award. Phyllis devoted many hours in the work of Federation, and it is one of the many organizations in which she observed the depth of devotion and talent that Jewish professionals bring to our community.

“We are immensely proud to have Jennifer Scher as our award winner for the prestigious Phyllis G. Margolius Impossible Dream Award,” said Philip Margolius, President of the Phyllis Margolius Family Foundation. “Her achievements and dedication embody the essential qualities that this award represents: resilience, creativity, and the ability to rise to any challenge. We hope that receiving the Impossible Dream Award will further inspire Jennifer to continue her exemplary work in the field.”

Jennifer Scher will receive her award at an event to honor Jewish communal professionals on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at the Bender JCC in Rockville, Maryland. The event is co-sponsored by the Phyllis Margolius Family Foundation, The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington and the BenderJCC.

On Monday, March 3rd, I had the privilege of joining many of you in celebrating seven exceptional leaders in our community: Alma Gildenhorn, Carol & Gary Berman, Sophie & Bradley Buslik, and Rachel & Peter Federowicz.

I’m always impressed by the way our community shows up to honor our leaders — and Cornerstone was no exception.

I’m also excited to share that the event raised over $1M for the Cornerstone Fund. This significant contribution will enable us to expand our commitment to developing the next generation of leaders, equipping them with the confidence, skills, and Jewish values necessary to strengthen our community for years to come.

In my remarks, I spoke at length about leadership — how it’s not just contagious, but also collective.

Now, more than ever, I urge you to stand with us and double down on our efforts. We must unite to overcome the critical challenges facing our local Jewish community and Jewish communities worldwide.

If you were unable to attend, watch my full remarks.

My heart breaks with the news of the horrific plane crash near Reagan National Airport late Wednesday night. May the memories of those lost in this unthinkable incident forever be a blessing, and may we send strength to all the first responders and officials working tirelessly on the investigation and extensive recovery operation still unfolding.

At the same time, since my last note, 12 more innocent people have been reunited with their friends and family. The videos have been deeply moving — it’s an incredible relief to see these hostages return home after almost 500 days of captivity. I can only imagine what they have gone through and what lies ahead.

I know we’re all waiting with bated breath for the return of three more hostages this weekend, including Keith Siegel, and of course, for every one of those still in captivity.

This past weekend, I had the privilege of joining the capstone retreat for Federation’s Jewish Community Leaders Program (JCLP) at Capital Camps. Together, we marked the culmination of a year’s worth of learning, growth, fostering deep relationships, and building trust. One participant captured the essence of the experience: “This weekend’s retreat capped off a tremendous year and opened up opportunities to engage meaningfully in the community. It nourished my soul.” I’m deeply inspired by this dynamic group, and more than confident in their ability to lead with passion and pride. It’s been an honor to be part of their journey. Many thanks to Shelly Kupfer and Mark Levitt for co-chairing, and to Dana Bornstein and Elisa Deener-Agus for being the professional leads on such a transformative program.

A recent ADL and Hillel International survey found that more than 83% of Jewish students on college campuses have experienced or witnessed antisemitism since October 7, 2023. In their message on the results, my colleagues Jonathan Greenblatt and Adam Lehman rightfully noted that, “universities must act decisively. They must speak out against antisemitism and ensure their campuses are safe for Jewish students.” I couldn’t agree more. I’m grateful that your support ensures Federation can continue to combat antisemitism in our schools, colleges, and universities.

Our Northern VA Leadership Cohort met last week for the second time — and enjoyed their time together so much they didn’t want it to end. Their focus on how to be inspiring leaders sparked rich discussions about how participants could apply shared insights within their respective organizations. These leaders are deeply dedicated to the future of the Jewish community in NOVA, and eager to continue this important work after their cohort wraps up. We’re lucky to have them help drive Jewish Northern VA forward.

A look ahead: More than two dozen excited travelers will come together tonight for a “kick-off” Shabbat dinner as they prepare for our Federation Intergenerational Mission to Panama next month. This initial gathering will begin to build lasting friendships and connections as they prepare to visit the largest Jewish community in Central America. I’m looking forward to their updates and pictures!

As Chief Development Officer, Keren will build and drive Federation’s financial resource development, and elevate fundraising strategy, systems, and relationships. Keren’s work will focus on advancing and diversifying resource development and fostering a culture of philanthropy across Federation’s professional and lay leadership. This new role marks Keren’s return to Federation, where she first began her career in development, cultivating current and potential donors and partnering with lay leadership to further engage the Greater Washington community

“We are excited to welcome Keren back to the Federation team,” said Gil Preuss, CEO of The Jewish Federation of Greater Washington. “Keren is a dynamic and experienced nonprofit leader, and we look forward to having her expertise as we continue to focus on fundraising and philanthropy in our community through a strategic and engaging approach.”

Keren most recently served as the Chief Development Officer for Americans for Ben-Gurion University (A4BGU), where she spent 17 years of her career. At A4BGU, Keren managed a $45M- $50M+ annual campaign, a national team of up to 24 development professionals, and built and implemented a strategic approach to development across the organization. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Middle Eastern Studies and Religion/Judaic Studies from Emory University and her Master of Arts in International Affairs/U.S. Foreign Policy from George Washington University’s Elliott School.

Keren has worked in diverse areas of the Jewish community, both in the United States and abroad. After completing her university in 1996-7, Keren spent a year in Donetsk, Ukraine as part of AMITIM (“friends” in Hebrew), an international service project initiated by the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta that aimed to build bridges between the North American, Israeli and former Soviet Jewish communities.

“With increasing tension within the global Jewish community and alarming antisemitism on the rise in Washington and beyond, the need for Federation has only increased,” said Keren M. Waranch. “Jewish Federations are the ultimate convener every part of the community needs right now. The stronger the Federation, the stronger our community. That is why I am so proud and excited to take on this position.”

“Keren will be a tremendous asset to the Federation team, and we are thrilled to have her insights and leadership,” said Robin Hettleman Weinberg, Federation President. “Keren played a critical role in developing Federation’s Next Gen and Women’s Philanthropy groups, and we know that her experience will allow us to better reach diverse groups across our Greater Washington Jewish community.”