I am honored and excited to introduce myself as the new community engagement manager at Jewish Federation of Northern New Jersey. I bring over 20 years of experience working for Jewish nonprofit organizations, with a concentration in development and marketing/communications. My professional journey has prepared me for my new position at Federation, and I am thrilled to contribute to this vital organization which has and will continue to work on behalf of the Jewish community.

Most recently, I worked at the Jewish New Teacher Project for 14 years, where I built the development department and advanced community engagement efforts. Prior to that, I held positions at the Claims Conference and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. These experiences have equipped me with a strong skill set in project management, donor cultivation and engagement, grant writing and event planning.

I am passionate about strengthening Federation’s impact in the Orthodox community. Federation is an important part of our local Jewish community, dedicated to fostering unity, support and growth through a diverse array of initiatives. It plays a crucial role in supporting day schools, ensuring that they provide high-quality education for our children. Additionally, we are deeply committed to strengthening the bond between our community and Israel, offering programs that promote cultural exchange, advocacy and support for unmet needs in Israel including food insecurity, assisting Holocaust survivors and aiding at-risk youth

Federation is at the forefront of fighting antisemitism, working tirelessly to combat hatred and prejudice with elected officials, school administrators and law enforcement. It is our top priority to ensure that issues important to the Jewish community are heard and addressed. Our safety and security team provides preparedness training for our shuls, schools and agencies and has facilitated getting grants for infrastructure enhancements.

Now, more than ever, in the post-October 7 world, we see how necessary it is for the Jewish community to stand united to meet the unprecedented challenges. We are stronger as a community and better able to address internal and external challenges when we lean into collective thinking, resources and support of the community at large. Federation is how we can unite to make a real difference.

As I embark on this new chapter with Federation, I am inspired by the organization’s proud history and the potential for future growth. The Orthodox community has a lot to benefit from and a tremendous amount to contribute to Federation. Together we can make a significant difference and continue to enrich the lives of those in our community and Israel. I look forward to the journey ahead and the positive change we will create together.