Jewish Community Partners

Memphis Jewish Federation hosted a warm and inspiring reception last week, honoring participants in its renewed Leadership Development Program, held at the home of Cindy and Mark Finestone. The evening brought together current and future leaders of the Memphis Jewish community, including past presidents of Memphis Jewish Federation, Jewish Foundation of Memphis, and Jewish Community Partners, to celebrate the program’s success and the bright future of Jewish communal leadership in Memphis.

Under the guidance of Leadership Development Program Director Jill Shanker and the leadership of MJF Vice Chair of Leadership Development Jaclyn Marshall, the program was designed to cultivate and inspire the next generation of Jewish communal leaders.

Over the past several months, participants — Danielle Lazarov, Emily Lennon, Jaclyn Marshall, Lee Olswanger, Greg Phelps, Leor Reef, Shayna Roark, and Rachel Siegel — have taken part in nine intensive three-hour sessions led by a community leaders and professional facilitators. Each session explored critical topics in leadership, from strategic thinking, philanthropy and collaboration to understanding the local, national, and international Jewish landscape.

The experience will culminate in a four-day immersive trip to Israel in February, providing participants with a deeper connection to Israel, Jewish life and leadership on a global scale.

At the closing reception, each leadership development participant shared their personal Jewish Leadership Story — reflections written during the program that captured why they are involved in Jewish leadership, what inspires their commitment to community, and what they hope to achieve as future leaders.

“We are so excited about the future of Jewish Memphis,” said Jill Shanker, who has guided the cohort through their journey. “This group’s passion, insight, and dedication demonstrate the strength and potential of Jewish leadership in Memphis for years to come.”

The renewed Leadership Development Program reflects Memphis Jewish Federation’s long-standing commitment to building a vibrant, sustainable Jewish community by investing in the people who will lead it. If you or someone you know is interested in participating in future leadership development programs, please email Carrie Richardson at crichardson@jcpmemphis.org