Karmi’s Brunch
On Sunday, April 26th, we honored our outgoing board chair, Karmi Monsher, and celebrated her positive impact on Hillel 818. Here are the inspiring words she shared:
Hillel 818 is a home away from home for Jewish students—a place where they can find belonging and explore their Jewish traditions, from Shabbat to text study to celebrating Jewish holidays.
Matt Baram, our fearless leader, has assembled a team of professional talent at the highest level. Our students experience creative events, learning opportunities, and most of all, Jewish Joy!
Together, we have created a diverse and talented board of directors who have influence and connections throughout the valley.
I am blessed to have my generous friends, Jodi Kirbride, Felice Resnick and Rochelle Cohen create this successful gathering today. Thank you.
The leadership of Kathi Mangel, our immediate past chair, along with David Katz, our previous Executive Director, led us through our exciting building remodel and capital campaign,and she also envisioned a new and talented Hillel 818 board.
Ellen Silverman, our current development chair and incoming board chair, has fresh ideas and leadership priorities that will lead us to our next chapter. Ellen has taught me the importance of prioritizing philanthropy, focusing on our future generations. This resonated with me. That is what we are doing here today.
Students like Kaela Noik get to step up and help lead these opportunities thanks to your generosity.
Kaela shared with me that Hillel 818 has provided a safe place to experience Judaism. A place to experience Shabbat with music and welcoming friends with the common goal of Jewish Joy.
Some of the students have grown up in a strong Jewish environment; however, it is amazing to have met many who had very little past Jewish life. They have found their true Jewish self here at Hillel 818.
My proud moments have been seeing our professional staff connect with students and empower them to pursue leadership roles within this community.
My joy is investing in the Jewish future. Thank you all for investing with me today.
-Karmi Monsher, Outgoing Board Chair