Guest Speakers
Dr. Gavin Cohen, O.D., is one of the few board-certified optometrists in the United States and a nationally recognized expert in advanced contact lens design and ocular disease management. With over twenty-five years of experience, he combines medical precision with a genuine passion for helping patients achieve clarity and comfort in even the most complex cases.
A graduate of RAU University in South Africa and the New England College of Optometry in Boston, Dr. Cohen has served as consultant, lecturer, and clinical investigator for Bausch + Lomb, CIBA Vision, SynergEyes, and Optos. His specialties include keratoconus, dry-eye therapy, ocular GVHD, myopia control, and custom scleral and Ortho-K lens design.
Renowned for his compassionate care and meticulous attention to detail, Dr. Cohen leads innovative, patient-centered practices defined by integrity and excellence. Outside the clinic, he is a devoted wildlife photographer, golfer, boater, and reader.
Helen Zalik is a social entrepreneur, attorney, and philanthropist. In 2018, Helen co-founded The Zalik Foundation, which has granted over $150 million to date for education, children and families in need, behavioral mental health and Jewish communities in the U.S and Israel. Helen immigrated to the United States from Ukraine at age 11. She went on to attend The University of Pennsylvania and later Duke University School of Law. Helen began her career as a corporate attorney at Powell Goldstein, LLP, and eventually served as General Counsel of a privately held healthcare management company.
Helen is a strong believer in the value of Jewish education and community, serving as the Immediate Past Board President of Momentum Unlimited. Helen also co-founded Jewish Women’s Connection of Atlanta and serves on the Board of Governors for the Jewish Agency for Israel as well as the Board of Trustees at Jewish Federations of North America.
Helen resides in Atlanta with her incredible husband David and three magnificent daughters.
Growing up in South Africa during the Apartheid era, Darren Tobin witnessed firsthand the injustice of a system that denied rights based on skin color. It taught him that laws aren’t always just—and sometimes you have to fight.
At age fifteen, Darren worked nights dismantling yogurt machines for minimum wage, learning the value of hard work. Later, at the University of Georgia, he balanced sports, studies, and tutoring student-athletes, many who went on to the NFL. After being misled by a sports agent, he learned the importance of keeping one’s word.
Graduating magna cum laude with a double major, Darren went on to UGA Law, where he competed in Moot Court and served on the Honor Court. He began his career at a respected divorce firm, learning that sometimes opportunities come through connections.
Today, Darren leads a personal injury trial law firm, helping families in need. While proud of his clients’ victories, his greatest joy is his family—spending time with his wife and coaching his three sons in baseball, basketball, and soccer.
Josh is co-founder of Greenleaf and has spent seventeen years building acquisitions, fundraising, and lending relationships across the assets’ life cycle. A leader who embraces challenge and change, Josh has guided Greenleaf through market shifts and into new asset classes. From single families and student housing to low-income multifamily, Greenleaf has always focused on long-term stability. After eight years and 4,000 multifamily units, Greenleaf expanded into mobile homes, NNN leased buildings, and commercial office. Josh has helped close 150+ acquisitions, with broker, banker, and investor relationships fueling growth. Today he drives new partnerships to broaden Greenleaf’s footprint while supporting nonprofit startups that empower underprivileged youth, including Camp Impact and Crazy Science Extravaganza. Greenleaf also launched a nonprofit to lower daily costs of food, utilities, transportation, and education in its communities. Josh earned a Chemical Engineering degree from UT and lives in Peachtree Corners, GA with his wife, who he met at age 12, and four boys.
Alan T. Brown serves as Director of New Partnership Engagement at the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. At age twenty, Alan sustained a life-altering C5-6 spinal cord injury when his neck was crushed by an ocean wave in Martinique, leaving him a quadriplegic. On his twenty-first birthday, he underwent spinal surgery involving two metal plates and eleven screws.
Following his injury, Alan and his family founded the Alan T. Brown Foundation to Cure Paralysis, initially focusing on finding a cure. However, years in a wheelchair and the challenges of Alan’s paralysis led to the foundation changing it’s mission to improving the quality of life for those living with paralysis. The foundation now emphasizes support, education, and advocacy for the paralysis community.
Gabe Vorobiof, MD, is the Director of Cardiac PET Partners in Encino, California. He has twenty years of experience in advanced cardiovascular imaging techniques, including cardiac PET.
Gabe was previously Director of Adult Non-Invasive Cardiology Laboratories at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center and the UCLA Cardiovascular Center. He is currently an associate clinical professor of cardiology and medical and molecular pharmacology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.
Solly previously launched Strada and transformed a single-family investment office into a dynamic seed-stage venture fund. His sharp instinct for talent led to early investments in standout startups including Headway, Assured, Nourish, Traba, and Krea. Before entering the venture world, Solly built a track record of spotting creative talent at Sony Music and Tribeca Films, and later drove business development initiatives at InterActiveCorp (IAC).
Adam Sasouness is a Managing Partner of Dwight City Group and also co-founded and oversees the overall functions of Dwight Capital, which is one of the largest multifamily and healthcare real estate FHA/HUD loan originators and servicers in the country. In his capacity as co-CEO, he manages Dwight Capital’s overall business, including loan origination, underwriting, capital markets’ activities, closing, and servicing functions. Through March 2025, Dwight services in excess of $13 billion of commercial real estate loans.
Rabbi Yudy Shemtov is the Executive Director of Lubavitch of Bucks County, a vibrant center of Jewish life and education serving communities throughout the region. Since founding the organization in 1991, Rabbi Shemtov has devoted himself to creating inclusive spaces where every Jew feels welcome, valued, and inspired. Under his leadership, Lubavitch of Bucks County has grown to include thriving divisions such as Aleph Bet Hebrew School, the Jewish Learning Academy, Friendship Circle, CTeen Bucks County, and six synagogue locations. Known for his warmth, vision, and dedication, Rabbi Shemtov is a respected teacher and community leader who brings Jewish values to life through hands-on learning, outreach, and connection. His work continues to empower individuals and families to embrace their heritage with pride, joy, and purpose.
Angelica is an Audit Partner at Grant Thornton with over 20 years of experience serving higher education and not-for-profit clients, including universities, museums, religious institutions, and social service organizations subject to Uniform Guidance audits. As a leader in Grant Thornton’s National Higher Education Sector, she drives strategy, thought leadership, and serves as Chair of the firm’s People Committee.
Angelica serves on the Boards of the Epilepsy Foundation of America and the Weitzman Museum of American Jewish History, where she chairs the Audit Committees. She was recognized by the Philadelphia Business Journal as a 2024 Forty Under Forty Honoree and is active in the Forum of Executive Women and JFNA’s National Young Leadership Cabinet.
A CPA in Pennsylvania, Angelica earned her BBA in Accounting and Finance, summa cum laude, from Drexel University. She lives in Huntingdon Valley with her husband, Avi, and their three children.
Lawrence Kalikhman, Esquire is a distinguished personal injury attorney and partner at Kalikhman & Rayz, LLC, based in Huntingdon Valley, Pennsylvania. A summa cum laude graduate of Temple University and member of Phi Beta Kappa, he went on to earn his Juris Doctor from Rutgers University School of Law. Licensed to practice in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and multiple federal courts, Lawrence focuses on personal injury, general liability, and toxic tort litigation.
Widely respected for his integrity and courtroom skill, he has been recognized by Super Lawyers and named a Fellow of the Litigation Counsel of America, an honor reserved for less than half of one percent of American lawyers. Lawrence is deeply involved in professional bar associations across Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, and Bucks County. Known for his compassionate and client-centered approach, he is dedicated to providing strong, results-driven advocacy and achieving justice for those affected by negligence or wrongdoing.
Michael Rabinowitz is a seasoned life sciences executive with over thirty years of leadership experience across large pharmaceutical and small biotech companies. He has held C-suite roles in strategy, marketing, sales, finance, and business development, successfully launching billion-dollar products, revitalizing struggling businesses, and developing programs that enhance patient care and medical education. As Founder and Principal of Intelluvia LLC, Michael advises life science CEOs on strategy and partnerships. He has served as a keynote speaker and lecturer worldwide, focusing on leadership and business strategy.
Michael holds an MBA from the Carlson School of Management at the University of Minnesota and a BA summa cum laude from Northwestern University. He has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and Wharton.
Active in his community, Michael attends Lubavitch of Bucks County and serves as Vice President of the Bucks County Community College Foundation, among other charitable roles.
Roman Sharf is the founder and CEO of Luxury Bazaar, a luxury watch and jewelry firm based in Pennsylvania. Born on May 9, 1975 in the Soviet Union, Sharf immigrated to the United States as a teenager and held various jobs before enlisting in the U.S. Army at age 18. After his service, he studied engineering and computer science at Penn State and entered the banking industry, eventually becoming a Vice President at Deutsche Bank overseeing substantial payment systems. Seeing an opportunity after the banking industry shift post‑9/11, he launched Luxury Bazaar from his basement, growing it into a 25,000 sq ft facility with more than thirty employees and over $130 million in annual sales. His personal passions include his wife and three children, philanthropy, real‑estate, and collecting vintage watches, firearms, gold and silver.
Erik Senders is the co-founder and managing partner of Mika & Sammy’s, a Pennsylvania-based company specializing in all-natural dog treats and smoked marrow bones. Inspired by his family’s love for dogs and the rescue of their own dog, Erik began crafting high-quality canine treats at home, eventually turning it into a thriving business. He emphasizes small-batch production, slow-smoking techniques, and human-grade ingredients, rejecting shortcuts to ensure the best quality. Committed to a family-first culture, Erik works closely with his children and treats employees as part of the family. He continues to grow Mika & Sammy’s while staying true to its mission of quality, authenticity, and compassion.
Arkady “Eric” Rayz, Esq., is a summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Temple University and earned his J.D. from Temple’s James E. Beasley School of Law, where he served on the Temple International and Comparative Law Journal. Licensed in Pennsylvania and New York, he has extensive experience in federal and state courts and is a member of the Pennsylvania and Philadelphia Bar Associations. Mr. Rayz has been recognized by Super Lawyers® for over a decade, named a “Top Lawyer” by Main Line Today, and honored as a “Lawyer on the Fast Track” by The Legal Intelligencer. He has also served on the arbitration panel of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and as a Judge Pro Tempore in the Philadelphia Court of Common Pleas.
Luba Patlakh-Kaplun is a licensed speech-language pathologist (MS, CCC-SLP) and the founder and director of Kidology Inc., a multidisciplinary pediatric therapy practice based in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Originally pursuing a career in journalism, Luba discovered her true passion for helping children communicate and thrive. She went on to earn her master’s degree in speech-language pathology and gained experience in early intervention and special instruction before launching Kidology in 2014.
Under her leadership, Kidology has grown into a leading center providing speech, occupational, physical, and behavioral therapy in a fun, inclusive, and family-centered environment. Luba’s vision integrates innovation and compassion—introducing creative models like play-based therapy spaces and mobile therapy units. Fluent in English and Russian, she is deeply committed to supporting bilingual families and ensuring that every child has access to quality care. Luba is also a devoted wife and mother of three, grounded in her community and values.
Danny Cohn serves as the President and CEO of the Jewish Federation of St. Louis, bringing more than 20 years
of experience in strategic leadership, marketing, operations and community building. Prior to joining the
Federation, he served as CEO of the Birmingham Jewish Federation and Foundation, where he significantly deepened community engagement and led transformative initiatives, including a region-wide strategic plan.
His background includes global marketing work for major brands like Starbucks, Burger King and Allstate, as well as leadership roles at the Arbor Day Foundation and the Jewish Federation of Omaha.
A passionate advocate for Jewish communal life, Danny pivoted his career in 2020 to align his professional work with his personal values. He is known for his forward-thinking leadership, collaborative spirit and commitment to strengthening Jewish communities.
Dr. Barbieri is associated with, and performed investigations for, numerous national and international governmental agencies, and has received additional training from such entities as the FBI, U.S. Department of State, U.S. Attorney’s Office, Bolivian Secret Police, Nicaragua National Military police, Honduran Military Police, Brazilian Military Police, Mexican Military Police, Vietnamese Division of Investigation, Chinese Secret Police, U.S. Department of Defense, DIA, DEA, and U.S. Military.
Dr. Barbieri is and has been a professional news contributor to Fox News, CBS, NBC, CNN Canada, AM and FM radio regarding numerous security questions and current issues, including but not limited to terrorism. His expertise is sought after by news agencies through the world.
Dr. Barbieri is a Licensed Investigator in the State of Missouri.
Hope Hopkins is a dedicated advocate for victims of crime whose mission began after the tragic loss of her son, a Howard High School student, to gun violence. Transforming grief into purpose, Hope now devotes her time to educating and empowering youth through speaking engagements across the community. As a Baltimore City Public School teacher, she is committed to uplifting students, promoting safer environments, and ensuring that every young person feels seen, supported, and valued. Her courage and leadership continue to inspire positive change throughout Maryland.
Marc Felsen is a seasoned marketing and product executive and former Chief Marketing Officer at TouchTunes, with a track record of cultivating high-impact teams, driving innovation, and unlocking customer value and growth. Currently enjoying an extended sabbatical, Marc is channeling his expertise and passion into ventures that reflect a deep commitment to leadership, education, and well-being. In addition to being an advisor and mentor for the Ellicott City chapter of the Solomon Leadership Program, he is also an affiliate instructor at Loyola University Maryland, where he teaches a course that he created focused on branding for the tech-driven age. A dedicated mindfulness practitioner, Marc integrates mindfulness into both his professional and personal life, championing mindfulness as a tool for achieving greater mental agility, resilience, and overall well-being.
Marc holds a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from the University of Maryland and a Master of Business Administration from the Wharton School of Business.
Mark Greenberg is regarded as one of the greatest defensemen in Johns Hopkins lacrosse history. A four-time All-American, he helped lead the Blue Jays to three consecutive national championships (1978–1980) and an extraordinary 51–4 record. Greenberg won the Schmeisser Award in 1979 and 1980 as the nation’s top defender and, in 1979, became the first defenseman to earn the Enners Award as the nation’s outstanding player. He was inducted into the U.S. Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 1998.
Greenberg later helped found Israel Lacrosse and has been inducted into multiple halls of fame, including Greater Baltimore Lacrosse, Johns Hopkins Athletics, Jewish Athletics, Baltimore JCC, Maryland Lacrosse Club, and the Maryland State Athletic Hall of Fame.
Professionally, Greenberg transitioned from commercial banking to mortgage lending, founding Equity Mortgage in 1986 and leading it until his retirement in 2023. He continues to mentor Hopkins athletes and has held leadership roles with Israel Bonds, Hopkins Hillel, and The Associated.
Bob Lucido is passionate about helping people maximize their investments in real estate, whether selling a primary residence or purchasing an investment property. He loves coaching others to generate wealth through real estate, specializing in residential and luxury properties, and new home communities. As a skilled negotiator, Bob takes pride in representing his clients at the highest level.
Bob began his real estate career at eighteen, becoming one of the youngest to obtain a Maryland license. In 1991, he founded Builders 1st Choice, growing it to a $1 billion company with offices in five states. In 2008, he started Bob Lucido Team with his wife Tracy, expanding it to become one of the top real estate teams. They have their own brokerage, Keller Williams Lucido Agency, serving Maryland and beyond, with over eighteen Lucido Global locations in the U.S. and Canada.
Carrie believes in making the world better through business and leadership. That is why she co-founded The Global Good Fund to philanthropically support high potential entrepreneurs who are using business for good. To date, 11.6 million lives have been positively impacted in 70+ countries and nearly 4,000 permanent jobs have been created in underserved communities. Carrie is also the founder and Managing Partner of the Global Impact Fund, a family of venture capital funds that produces market leading financial returns by exclusively investing in social impact companies. Carrie is the co-founder and CEO of Global Good x Amani, a for-profit boutique consulting firm that helps clients deliver tangible social impact results with offices in India, Kenya and the United States. Carrie’s fourth book, Impact the World, is a Wall Street Journal Bestseller. Carrie serves on the board of directors of Trinity Health, a large healthcare organization operating in 27 states across America, where she chairs the Finance Committee.
Lora H. Muchmore served as the Deputy Director, Administration and Management to the Secretary of the Air Force at the Pentagon. A Senior Executive Service leader, she oversaw support for the 1,650-member Secretariat and 2,400 field agency personnel, managing manpower, budget, operations, and the Secretary’s contingency fund. She also guides Air Force-wide business transformation, driving continuous process improvement and enterprise systems.
Previously, Mrs. Muchmore served as Chief Innovation Officer and Director in the Office of the DoD Chief Information Officer, Director of Defense Business Systems for the Office of the Chief Management Officer, Director of Business Integration for the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Installations and Environment, and a Director in PwC’s National Security Practice.
With over twenty-five years of experience applying technology to enhance Department of Defense operations, she has led major efforts across energy, security, finance, contracting, and environmental management, earning multiple federal and DoD awards.
Harold F. Pryor was elected Broward State Attorney in 2020, becoming the first Black state attorney in Broward County and the first Black man elected to that office in Florida. He leads a team of over 460 employees dedicated to justice, equity, and public safety. A sixth-generation Floridian, Pryor holds a B.A. in political science from the University of Florida, where he was honored for leadership and inducted into Florida Blue Key, and a J.D. from Nova Southeastern University, where he delivered his class commencement address. His career spans prosecution, private civil practice, and corporate law, earning him a reputation as a skilled, fair, and compassionate trial lawyer. A past president of the T.J. Reddick Bar Association, Pryor championed renaming the courthouse’s North Wing in honor of Judge Reddick. Passionate about youth mentorship and literacy, Pryor remains committed to reforming the justice system and strengthening Broward’s communities.
Kevin is a 1987 cum laude graduate from the Nova University Law School and received his B.A. from Barry University in Miami Shores in 1981, where he majored in History and Political Science.
Kevin was appointed to serve as a Circuit Court Judge for the 17th Judicial Circuit (Broward County), and since January 2024, he has been assigned to the domestic violence court. Prior to his appointment to the bench, Kevin was a partner at Richardson & Tynan, P.L.C., for twenty-two years. Prior to that, he worked for thirteen years for The Florida Bar, culminating in his position as Branch Staff Counsel in the Bar’s Fort Lauderdale office. Kevin’s primary practice area was representing other attorneys with disciplinary problems, with over 800 cases resolved at the Florida Supreme Court. His practice included the representation of applicants seeking admission to the Bar and he also served as an expert witness regarding legal ethics and professional responsibility. He was admitted to The Florida Bar in 1987 and is admitted to practice before the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida.
Nathaly Haratz Kaswan was born in Caracas, Venezuela in 1977. Her journey is marked by resilience, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to purposeful contributions. Inspired by her family’s community leadership, she served in student councils throughout her education career. After earning a master’s in Urban Design, she seized opportunities in the USA amid Venezuela’s crisis, quickly advancing in her career through hard work and dedication. She thrived in New York City’s architectural scene before founding her own firm in Miami. Nathaly teaches at FIU, nurturing future architects. Married with three children, she champions determination and perseverance. A marathoner, she believes in the power of a positive mindset. Post-October 7th, she founded a group of resilient mothers for positive change, showcasing her leadership and commitment to collaboration.
Lynette Falzone has been with the Fort Lauderdale Police Department since 2000, serving in roles of increasing responsibility which culminated in her position today as Major in the Investigations Bureau. Lynette teaches various mental health and leadership topics and coordinates the department’s Peer Support Team. Prior to her promotion, Lynette served on the Support Services Bureau, where she assisted in building the Psychological Services Program, among other accomplishments. Lynette obtained her Master’s degree from Lynn University, graduating magna cum laude with honors. She has completed many certification courses in her field and is an active member of several police associations.. In 2017, Lynette was awarded the International Association of Chiefs of Police 40 under 40 Award, as well as a Past Presidents’ Scholarship Award from the National Association of Women Law Enforcement Executives, where she also served on the executive board. Lynette is a single mother to 8-year-old twins and enjoys time with her family, as well as traveling and outdoor activities.
Michael J. Higer is a partner with the law firm of Berger Singerman. He is a past president of The Florida Bar, where he is most proud of establishing a wellness program focusing on the mental health of lawyers. He also served as a past chair of the Business Law Section of The Florida Bar, which named him its outstanding member. He is one of the architects of the business courts that have been established throughout Florida. His representative clients have ranged from The Beatles and the largest financial institutions in the world to local community members.
Michael currently serves on Florida’s Judicial Qualifications Commission and is an arbitrator on the American Arbitration Association’s National Roster of Arbitrators and Mediators. Michael has served as a legal advisor to several synagogues. He has been a champion of providing free legal services to the needy. Most important to Michael is his family. He has been married to his wife, Bobbie, for forty years and is the proud father of Samantha and Adam, and grandfather of Jaxson, Noah, and Madison.
Ilan Sinelnikov is the Founder and President of the International Students Supporting Israel movement, and a speaker, blogger, and coach on the topics of Israel, campus advocacy, and grassroots activism. A first-generation Israeli whose family immigrated from Ukraine, Ilan moved with his family to the US when he was in high school. While in college, Ilan founded Students Supporting Israel, a pro-Israel grassroots movement whose mission is to be a clear and confident pro-Israel voice on college campuses, and to support students in grassroots pro-Israel advocacy.
Under Ilan’s leadership, SSI has grown to nearly 200 college campuses and universities in the United States, Canada, and Argentina. Ilan serves on the Executive Board of the National Coalition for Eurasian Jewry, which supports Jewish communities in the former Soviet Union Republics, and is a nationally licensed soccer coach from the United States Soccer Federation.
Ilan graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2015 with a B.S. in Business and Marketing, and from Ohio University in 2020 with an M.S. in Coaching Education. Ilan is fluent in Hebrew, Russian, and English.
Mr. Doug Berman is the Head of H.I.G. Capital’s U.S. Private Equity business. He joined the firm in 1996, and has served as an Executive Managing Director since 2007. Before that, Mr. Berman led the acquisition of more than forty businesses for H.I.G. Capital. Prior to joining H.I.G., Mr. Berman was a Consultant at Bain & Company, one of the world’s most successful management consulting firms. While at Bain, he managed a variety of projects for Fortune 1000 clients, developing expertise in manufacturing, telecommunications, and financial services. Mr. Berman holds a BA degree with Honors in Economics from the University of Virginia and an M.B.A. degree from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Harold F. Pryor was elected Broward State Attorney to Florida’s 17th Judicial Circuit in November 2020. He leads a staff whose mission is to make our community safer while working to ensure justice, equity, and fairness for everyone affected by our criminal justice system. He is the first Black state attorney in Broward and the first Black man to be elected state attorney in Florida. A fifth-generation Floridian, Pryor graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in political science and then attended Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard Broad College of Law, where he graduated with honors and was selected to give the commencement address. Pryor was inducted into Florida Blue Key, the state’s oldest and most prestigious leadership honor society. Pryor strongly believes that securing a guilty verdict should never be a prosecutor’s primary goal but that the pursuit of truth, fairness, and justice should be paramount. Pryor’s passions include mentoring young people and attorneys, and he is very active in community affairs. A fifth-generation Floridian, Pryor is married to an attorney and they have two young children.
Art Greenfeder is a native Floridian who resides in Weston, Florida. After graduating with a degree in Finance from the University of Miami, he joined Merrill Lynch’s Private Client group, where he held several key positions and proudly continues his career as a Senior Vice President of Investments. He has been acknowledged by various organizations for his outstanding achievement in the financial service industry, most notably BARRON’S, as one of America’s top advisors. Art has served on various charitable boards and fundraisers, including the Florida Grand Opera, the Board Partnership for the Homeless, and The National Jewish Fund, among others. He is a recipient of the prestigious Merrill Lynch Lifetime Community Achievement Award.
As a “Double Gator“ dad, he is especially proud of his two children. He has been married to Lori for 31 years and enjoys golf, fishing, and outdoor activities, and especially traveling the world with Lori.
Dr. Etan Sugarman is the Director of Joint Preservation at the American Hip Institute, the nation’s first clinic dedicated to elite hip care. A board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in hip arthroscopy, sports medicine, and joint preservation, he graduated with honors from NYU and was inducted into the American Orthopedic Association. He completed fellowship training at the world-renowned Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic, with additional advanced work in hip reconstruction and preservation.
Previously on faculty at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York, Dr. Sugarman has extensive experience treating hip, shoulder, and knee disorders using minimally invasive and reconstructive techniques. He has invented cutting-edge surgical methods and trains surgeons globally.
He has served as Team Physician for professional teams including the Rams, Dodgers, Kings, Ducks, Sparks, and USC football. An avid surfer, skier, and violinist, he combines deep expertise with a personalized approach focused on each patient’s goals.
Melissa Melshenker Ackerman is the founder and CEO of Planet Harvest, a profit-for-purpose company redefining how the country sources, distributes, and consumes fresh produce. Under Melissa’s leadership, Planet Harvest has developed a “Whole Harvest” model that delivers scalable, sustainable solutions to reduce food waste, support farmers, and increase access to nourishing produce across foodservice, retail, and healthcare. Her work integrates product development, strategic sourcing, and a proprietary accreditation that guarantees integrity, traceability, and impact. Prior to founding Planet Harvest, Melissa served as President of Produce Alliance, where she led one of the nation’s premier produce management and procurement platforms. She played a key role in driving initiatives like the Farmers to Families Food Box Program, which delivered over 9 million boxes of fresh food to families in need. Her enduring commitment to building a more resilient and equitable food system continues to power Planet Harvest’s mission to unlock the full potential of every harvest.
Steven N. Miller is a Founding Partner of Origin Ventures, a venture capital firm with $400M+ under management. Before Origin, he spent 10 years at Quill Corporation, growing its first website to $15M in revenue.
He has served on the boards of GrubHub, Impact Engine, VHT, and others, and as a board observer for Origin portfolio companies like DialogTech and BacklotCars.
Steve is active philanthropically, serving nearly 20 years as a director of the Jewish United Fund, leading its $90M 2022 campaign. He chaired Victory Gardens Theater, was Vice Chair of the Better Government Association, and together with his wife Diane founded the Misophonia Research Fund, providing $15M+ in grants to advance understanding and treatment of the disorder.
Steve holds a B.S. in Business Administration/Marketing from the University of Illinois, where he supports scholarships, a Centennial Chair, and the Origin Ventures Office of Entrepreneurship.
Lonn A. Trost, Esq. serves as Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel of the New York Yankees, overseeing all legal, operational, and business matters for one of the world’s most iconic sports franchises. A lifelong Yankee, Trost began his connection to the team as a young vendor at the original Yankee Stadium and has worked with the organization for over forty years. He joined as outside counsel in the 1970s and rose to become a trusted leader known for his dedication, integrity, and deep respect for the team’s legacy. Trost manages everything from contracts and media rights to stadium operations and brand protection, ensuring that the Yankees’ tradition of excellence endures for future generations. His passion and tireless commitment embody the values that make the Yankees not just a baseball team, but a symbol of pride, history, and community.
Agnes Shemia is Co-President, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of HCS-Girling. As a licensed speech language pathologist who began her career in hospital and outpatient rehabilitation, Mrs. Shemia draws on her vast clinical experience and knowledge in leading the organization. Under her leadership, the business was built one patient at a time to a large-scale home health and home care provider in one of the most challenging operating environments in the country. As a seasoned executive with over twenty years of hands-on operational experience, coupled with strong management skills, Agnes has overseen numerous bolt-on acquisitions, including the entry into new business lines and large-scale year-over-year organic growth. A firm and steady voice within the organization, Mrs. Shemia prides herself on her ability to build strong teams of professionals who share in her vision and goals, consistently driving operational improvements and efficiencies and providing the highest quality care to those that need it most.
Dan Reich is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and writer. He has founded several successful companies, including TULA Skincare, acquired by Proctor & Gamble, Troops.ai, acquired by Salesforce, Spinback, acquired by Buddy Media, later acquired by Salesforce, and DIBS Beauty, backed by LCatterton. He is also an active angel investor and has invested in over 100 startups. He graduated from UW-Madison with a B.S. in Electrical and Computer Engineering in 2008, and has written for publications like Forbes, Techcrunch, and Harvard Business Review.
Dan grew up in Manalapan, NJ, and now lives in Rumson with his wife and two children. He recently rededicated his childhood school, formerly known as The Hebrew Academy, now The Reich Hebrew Academy.
Sheriff Shaun Golden is the 76th elected Sheriff of Monmouth County and is the Chief Executive of the agency. Under Sheriff Golden’s leadership, the Office offers over 30 community safety programs including volunteer programs, programs for children and veterans, and rehab programs.
Prior to being elected sheriff in 2010, Mr. Golden served as undersheriff and was responsible for the Monmouth County 9-1-1 Communications Center and the communications and computer networking equipment for both county and municipal agencies. A lifelong resident of Monmouth County, Sheriff Golden was a career law enforcement officer for 25 years and has also worked as a certified paramedic, volunteer firefighter, and EMT.
Sheriff Golden is an adjunct professor at Monmouth University and has completed the prestigious Mid-Atlantic Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (MA-LEEDS). He serves on several community-oriented boards. He has been the recipient of multiple awards, including the Good Scout Award from the Western Monmouth Council of Boy Scouts.
Dr. Patrick F. Leahy became Monmouth University’s 10th president in 2019. Under his leadership, Monmouth has served an increasing percentage of Pell Grant-eligible and first-generation students. At the graduate level, Dr. Leahy has championed two new doctoral programs. He has also greatly expanded the athletics program.
Dr. Leahy holds a two-year term on the board of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities and is a member of the Governor’s Higher Education Restart Advisory Group. Prior to Monmouth, Dr. Leahy served as president of Wilkes University, where he supported tremendous growth in both academics and athletics.
A native of Towson, Maryland, Dr. Leahy holds a bachelor’s in English literature from Georgetown, and two master’s degrees from Cornell in business administration and labor relations, where he was a Fried Fellow and a CEED Fellow. In 2009, he earned a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Leahy and his wife, Amy, have four children.
Russell showed an early interest in the public markets when his grandfather taught him how to read the stock tables as a child. After losing both his parents at a young age, Russell learned the value of self-sufficiency and perseverance as he invested and paid his way through college. Russell’s career began at Dawson-Samberg Capital Management. At the age of 26, Russell started his own long/short equity hedge fund within the firm. With $10m of initial backing, Russell successfully grew the Southport Millennium family of funds to a total AUM of $3b (2000-2009). During this time, Russell ultimately became Chief Executive Officer, Chief Investment Officer, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dawson-Herman Capital Management. The fund’s areas of focus were the technology, consumer, media, healthcare, industrial, and commodity sectors.
Russell then founded Herman Capital Management, the predecessor to White Pine Capital Management. After analyzing the changing dynamics in the public equity markets, Russell started early-stage private market investing in 2012. While maintaining a multi-asset class portfolio, Russell has become an active investor in the startup community. Through fund investments and direct equity participation, Russell enjoys working with and advising his network of fund managers and founders.
Other than spending time with his beloved family and various charitable organizations, you can usually find Russell in the surf, rolling on two wheels, or somewhere in the mountains.
Mr. Carey Lathrop is a Partner and the Chief Operating Officer of Credit at Apollo Global Management. Carey joined Apollo in October 2022, after more than 30 years at Citigroup, having last served as the Global Co-Head of Markets. Carey held multiple leadership positions during his tenure at Citi, including COO of Citibank N.A. and Chair of the Citigroup Business Practices Committee, among others.
Carey is a former member of the US Treasury Borrowing Advisory Committee of the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association, a position he held from December 2012 through April 2018. His responsibilities included providing market feedback on a regular basis to the Treasury Department on a variety of fundamental and technical debt-related topics.
Carey earned an M.B.A. degree from Harvard Business School and a B.S. degree from Stony Brook University.
Mr. Eric Carney is the President & CEO at Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus. Prior to Monmouth, he served at Barnabas, where he led efforts to develop an ambulatory network and an outpatient laboratory network. He also served as project lead for the Cyberknife vault project and was service line leader for Oncology and Neurosciences.
Carney began his career at RWJBarnabas Health more than 20 years ago as a respiratory therapist. He served in numerous positions of increasing responsibility across the health system, leading to his position today. He earned a bachelor’s degree in management science from Kean University and a master’s in Healthcare Administration from Johns Hopkins University. He is a member of the American College of Healthcare Executives.
Eric is a resident of Howell.
Julie Gniwisch is the founder and CEO of Delmar International, a leading international diamond and jewelry business. Born in the Carpathian Alps, as a baby she was hidden from the turmoil of the Holocaust sweeping Europe and eventually fled to Canada, where she grew to raise a family of her own. Julie’s heart was set on the jewelry business, and her passion for pearls led to her founding Delmar in Montreal, QC, in the basement of the Gniwisch family home. Delmar continued to grow, amassing over fifty retail partners and delivering innovative designs that gained international renown. Together with her husband, Julie raised six children, and today she is an active philanthropist and proud grandmother of over 100 grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Didier Benita embodies the entrepreneurial spirit forged throughout his European career, where he successfully navigated between industry giants and the creation of his own thriving companies. With a solid background in economics and finance, Didier began his career with the Xerox Group, where he held various leadership positions, developing expertise in sales, marketing, and management. His passion for innovation led him to head a world-renowned sales academy within Xerox, cementing his reputation as a visionary leader.
As a bold entrepreneur, Didier expanded his horizons by acquiring companies in strategic sectors such as information technology, management, and finance. His instinct for opportunity and ability to drive growth propelled these companies to new heights, demonstrating his strategic vision and enlightened leadership.
In 2017, driven by a desire to return to his roots, Didier chose to settle in Montreal. For two years, he immersed himself in Quebec’s economic ecosystem by working with various organizations, absorbing the nuances of the local market and forging valuab
Steve Kramer is the CEO and Co-founder of WorkJam and serves on its board of directors. With over twenty years of executive leadership experience driving business results and developing disruptive technologies for the retail industry, Steve brings a wealth of knowledge and oversees WorkJam’s overall operations. Prior to WorkJam’s conception, Steve and his lifelong friend Joshua Ostrega started another company known as iCongo, a leading global software provider for omnichannel retail and B2B commerce solutions. Merging with hybris Software in 2011, the business became the largest independent provider of e-commerce solutions with twenty-seven offices worldwide, 1000+ employees, and more than six-hundred customers. While innovating in the omnichannel and connected consumer, Steve recognized a gap between the traditional workforce management systems and how retailers hire, schedule, and manage their hourly employees, making his stride into the digital workplace. Beyond WorkJam, Steve is a board member with Cummings Centre and Naveo Commerce. Steve holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McGill University.
Gary Polachek is President of Magil Laurentian Realty Investments, a family-owned real estate investment company with commercial and residential holdings in Quebec and Ontario. Gary has over thirty years of leadership experience in all facets of real estate, including acquisitions, financings, leasing, and operations. In the process, he has developed an extensive network and long-term relationships with partners and customers. Gary has a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and Finance as well as Civil and Common Law degrees. He has held a variety of philanthropic and community positions and is currently part of the leadership team for the Camp Massad capital campaign and project. Gary has been to Israel fifteen times, most recently in March 2024 with Rabbi Krasnanski on a special solidarity mission. Gary and his wife Claudia are alumni of the Wexner Heritage Learning and Leadership Program. Gary and Claudia are the proud parents of three children.
As a third-generation Canadian, Stephen Bronfman is driven by a deep sense of duty and commitment to community. He is the Executive Chairman of Claridge Inc., which manages a diversified global portfolio of investments in the form of private placements, third party-managed funds, and real estate. Stephen sits on the boards of several non-profit organizations, chairs major fundraising campaigns, and regularly initiates community projects, which have so far distributed more than $100 million to Quebec and Canadian charities in both the Jewish communities and beyond. He is married to Claudine Blondin and they have four children.
Dax Dasilva is the creative mind behind Lightspeed Commerce and Age of Union. Founded in 2005, Lightspeed is a one-stop commerce platform for merchants worldwide to simplify, scale, and provide exceptional customer experiences. The platform unifies operations by enabling multichannel sales, expansion, global payments, financial solutions, and connection to supplier networks. Dasilva was appointed Executive Chair of Lightspeed’s Board of Directors in 2022. Prior to that, he led the company’s operations as CEO.
Age of Union is a non-profit environmental alliance supporting a global community working to protect the planet’s threatened species and ecosystems. Launched in October 2021, the non-profit was formed following Dasilva’s 2019 release of his book Age of Union, a compelling guide for igniting today’s changemaker. This mission comes to life in debut projects spanning five countries.
Captain Charlie Plumb, a Kansas farm boy turned U.S. Navy fighter pilot, lived his dream flying F-4 Phantom jets with Fighter Squadron 114 aboard the USS Kitty Hawk. On his 75th combat mission over Vietnam, he was shot down, captured, and endured 2,103 days as a POW in North Vietnamese camps. Despite brutal conditions, Plumb became a leader among fellow prisoners, serving as chaplain and underground communicator. After his release, he continued flying with the Navy Reserves, retiring as a Captain after 31 years of service. Today, he shares lessons on resilience and leadership with audiences worldwide, drawing powerful parallels between his POW experience and everyday challenges. An avid aviator, Plumb still flies and treasures his WWII PT-19 open-cockpit antique, currently on loan to the Palm Springs Air Museum. He also owns a Rutan-designed experimental single-engine Long-Eze. Captain Plumb’s message inspires others with his story of courage, purpose, and perseverance.
Marc Moller is a trial and appellate lawyer who has represented plaintiffs in commercial aviation accidents, mass disasters, and other wrongful death and personal injury cases, many of which set records for recoveries. Throughout his five decades of legal leadership at Kreindler, Marc has been recognized by every notable organization within the legal industry.
Marc recently transitioned from Partner to of Counsel position at Kreindler. Among his many notable cases and accomplishments, he was Plaintiffs’ Liaison Counsel for the attorneys representing all of the personal injury and wrongful death cases in post-9/11 litigation. He also recovered substantial damages for children and adults who contracted polio after getting the Sabin live oral polio vaccine.
A graduate of Cornell Law School (J.D.), Marc is a member in good standing of the Bars of New York, the United States Supreme Court, and the United States Courts of Appeals. He has also served on various industry-specific boards.
Alexcia Cox was recently elected as Palm Beach County’s State Attorney, building on her lifetime of service to ensure equal justice and fairness and keep Palm Beach County a safe place to live and work. A Palm Beach County native, Alexcia serves as Deputy Chief Assistant State Attorney and a key member of State Attorney Dave Aronberg’s Executive Leadership Team. With an eighteen-year legal career, she has prosecuted hundreds of cases, including violent crimes, and oversees the Domestic Violence Unit and other divisions. Alexcia played a pivotal role in establishing the office’s Conviction Review Unit, which she also supervises.
Beyond her legal work, Alexcia is a dedicated mentor and community leader, supporting single mothers, young women, and various youth programs. She has held leadership roles with the YWCA of Palm Beach County, the Florida Bar, and numerous professional organizations. A graduate of UCF and FSU College of Law, Alexcia’s honors include UCF’s prestigious Order of Pegasus Award. Active in local and national legal, civic, and professional groups, Alexcia exemplifies leadership, service, and dedication to her community.
Dr. Adam Goldstone is a highly skilled emergency medicine physician based in West Palm Beach, Florida. He is affiliated with leading healthcare facilities in the area, including Baptist Health Bethesda Hospital East & West and Good Samaritan Medical Center-West Palm Beach.
Dr. Goldstone attended the University of Vermont College of Medicine, where he earned his medical degree. He completed his residency training at U South Alabama Hospitals from 2008 to 2011 and completed a fellowship in Primary Care Sports Medicine at North Shore University in 2011-2012.
Dr. Goldstone’s dedication to providing exceptional care and his advanced training in both emergency and sports medicine make him a trusted physician in his field. He is committed to delivering timely, compassionate, and comprehensive care to his patients, reflecting his passion for medicine and community health.
Gary S. Lesser, the 74th President of The Florida Bar, is the Managing Partner of Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC, a third-generation law firm with nearly a century of experience advocating for injured clients across Florida. A highly regarded personal injury attorney, Gary leads a team dedicated to professionalism, integrity, and client service.
With over 25 years of service to The Florida Bar, including more than a decade on the Board of Governors, Gary has chaired key committees, received multiple awards, and is a respected lecturer on personal injury and professional ethics.
Beyond his legal career, Gary is deeply involved in his community, serving on the boards of numerous organizations, including the Florida Supreme Court Historical Society and the Jewish Federation. A West Palm Beach native, Gary holds degrees from George Washington University and the University of Miami School of Law. He and his wife, Jennifer, are proud parents of three daughters.
Sally Ann Nisberg is an author, counselor, and advocate. She is the founder and president of LiveLikeCrazy, Inc., a non-profit breast cancer charity. Sally serves on the Department of Defense, the Breast Cancer Research Board, and is a Child and Family Advocate serving several Palm Beach County agencies.
Bruce Gendelman is the Chairman of Bruce Gendelman Insurance Services, a firm he founded in 1982 to provide quality risk assessment and insurance services. He holds both undergraduate and law degrees from the University of Wisconsin. Beyond his professional endeavors, Gendelman is an accomplished writer and oil painter. He co-authored “The Fishbowl Principle: Building the Ark for the 21st Century” with Robert Miller and David Taus, a book that explores societal challenges and advocates for collective action toward a better future.
Mr. Leone is CEO of Breakers Palm Beach, Inc. and its parent company, Flagler System, Inc., overseeing the 128-year-old, privately held resort, the only large historic luxury resort in the U.S. still owned by its original family and among Florida’s longest-operating businesses. Leone began in hospitality working in his family’s motels and restaurants. He earned a BS in accounting from the University of Kentucky, became a CPA, and worked with Coopers & Lybrand. Joining The Breakers in 1985 as hotel controller, he rose to president by 1994 at age thirty-six and CEO in 2016, becoming the first non-family member in the role. He transformed The Breakers by fostering a unique culture that delivers top-tier employee satisfaction, guest experience, community service, and financial success. Recognized for civic and professional contributions, he is involved with many organizations. Leone and his wife, Kathy, are parents to four sons.
John Sculley is an American entrepreneur and former CEO of Apple Inc. Born on April 6, 1939, in New York City, he graduated from Brown University before earning an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Sculley began his career at PepsiCo, where he rose to become the youngest-ever president of the company’s Pepsi-Cola division. In 1983, he famously joined Apple Inc. after being recruited by Steve Jobs. As CEO of Apple from 1983 to 1993, Sculley led the company through a period of significant growth, overseeing the launch of iconic products like the Macintosh and the PowerBook. He later co-founded and served as chairman of Live Picture Inc. and became a prominent investor and advisor in various technology startups. With his wealth of experience in both consumer goods and technology sectors, Sculley continues to be recognized as a visionary leader in the business world.
Dr. Joshua Gindea, a graduate of NYU’s combined BA-DDS program, owned and operated four dental practices in New York City for over thirty-five years. He co-founded several dental-related ventures, including Westchester Dental Products and DoctorsInternet.com, a leader in website design and marketing for health professionals.
On the communal front, Dr. Gindea served as Chairman of the Youth Department at the Young Israel of Lawrence-Cedarhurst for nearly a decade. He also held leadership roles at the Hebrew Academy of the Five Towns & Rockaway (HAFTR), including Chairman of the Board of Education and Board of Directors. Additionally, he founded and served as President of Yeshivat Shvilei Hatorah, a post-high school yeshiva in Jerusalem.
Josh and his wife, Elizabeth, have been married for over 40 years and take pride in their children, Andrew, Alissa, Daniel, Mindy, Michael, Tamar, and four grandchildren, Max, Molly, Lily, and Archie.
An innovative, widely respected leader with a collaborative style, Audra P. Berg has led a life of service to the Jewish community for over twenty-five years. She came to the Jewish Federation of Broward County in 2022 with a wealth of experience and success in building and sustaining a vibrant, caring, and enriching Jewish community for all.
Before joining the Jewish Federation of Broward County, she served as the Vice President of Leadership Engagement and Board Relations at the Jewish United Fund/Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago, where she oversaw all aspects of governance and volunteer leadership development. She managed operations for Jewish United Fund’s 90+ member Board of Directors and spearheaded leadership engagement and talent development throughout the organization.
Audra, a Broward County native and University of Florida religion graduate, is a Wexner alumna and serves on Boardified’s advisory committee. She previously held board roles at UF Hillel and Chicago’s Temple Sholom.
Lt. Aston Bright is the Public Information Officer for the Plantation Fire Department and a member of the Emergency Volunteers Project (EVP), a Jerusalem-based nonprofit that deploys American firefighters to assist Israel’s first responders in times of crisis. Since 2006, EVP has supported Israeli communities by deploying emergency personnel and providing aid, including over 500,000 meals to IDF soldiers and displaced civilians since October 2023.
His work has earned numerous awards, including 2022 Firefighter of the Year, 2023 Humanitarian of the Year, and 2023 Public Information Officer of the Year. Ari Mittleman’s bestselling book Paths of the Righteous profiles Lt. Bright, citing his heroism, humanity, and hope for the Jewish people.
With a Bachelor’s in Political Science from the University of Florida and an MBA from Florida Atlantic University, Lt. Bright combines academic insight with practical experience. He has served as a firefighter since 2014 and enjoys flying and driving his Tesla Model S Plaid.
Saul was born in Poland in 1925. Until 1939, he lived a normal life in Cracow. His youth ended at the start of World War II, when the life of Jewish people was turned into a nightmare. Although Saul spent years in concentration camps, his passion for music has helped him to survive. After liberation by the American army, he spent a few years in Italy and then moved to the US, where he met his wife and started his business. Now Saul is over 90, but his stolen youth is still within him. As the founder of the Holocaust Survivor Band, he runs concerts and speaks around the world.
Christine Hunschofsky is an American politician and member of the Democratic Party in the state of Florida. She was born and raised in Boston and attended Boston University, where she focused on Business Administration and Philosophy. Hunschofsky became involved in her community after moving to Parkland and served on the Parkland Education Advisory Board for seven years. In 2012, she was elected City Commissioner and in 2016, she was elected Mayor of Parkland. Hunschofsky was serving as Mayor of Parkland on February 14, 2018, when the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland claimed 17 lives and injured another 17 people.
In 2020, Hunschofsky ran for the Florida House of Representatives, seeking to fill Kristin Jacobs’s vacated District 96 seat, which she won. She has been a member of the Florida House of Representatives since 2020, representing District 96.
Yudi Hercenberg is a Senior Managing Director at Walker & Dunlop, which provides financing to commercial real estate developers and owners across the United States. He joined the firm in 2017 following its acquisition of Deerwood Real Estate Capital, which he co-founded in 2009. At the time, he was the youngest Senior Managing Director at any NYSE public company. During his tenure at Deerwood, Yudi originated and placed over $10 billion in capital, specializing in multifamily, office, hospitality, retail, industrial, and manufactured housing.
A Summa Cum Laude graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University with a B.A. in Business Administration and a finance specialty, Yudi pairs expertise with a passion for giving back. Actively involved with over fifty charitable organizations, he has received the Making a Difference Award, Community Service Award, and Good Heart Award. Yudi lives in Parkland, Florida, with his wife, Simcha, and their son, Abe.
Born and raised in Plantation, Florida, Honorable Judge Stacey Schulman graduated from Nova High School. Upon graduation from law school, she worked for the Broward State Attorney’s Office as an Assistant State Attorney, working on a wide variety of cases. She then spent several years practicing civil law, including employment litigation and complex civil litigation.
In 2016, she was elected by the voters of Broward County to the Circuit Court bench. Judge Schulman currently sits in the Dependency Courts and is Chairperson of the Dependency Division in Broward, as well as a member of the faculty at Florida Judicial College. In addition to her professional work, Judge Schulman volunteers for organizations like the Justice Unit, Jewish Federation, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. She loves to run and on many weekends can be found doing 5Ks with her family for charity. Judge Schulman’s greatest accomplishments are her sons, Brandon and Sammy.
Chanan, the Executive Vice President of Primeview Americas, leads a specialized visualization company dedicated to engineering premium display technology. Their solutions grace diverse spaces worldwide, from board rooms and museums to broadcast studios and military command centers. Noteworthy projects include installations at ESPN Sports Center, ABC, CBS, the United Nations, and several US Military setups. Chanan brings a wealth of experience, having served as a business manager and acquisition analyst for a family office investment company, and prior to that, managed visual merchandising for a global manufacturer. With nearly a decade of industry insight, he has contributed editorial information to various publications on the display industry’s evolution, A/V marketplace, and VR forums. Outside of his professional endeavors, Chanan and his wife Shirra have five children.
A. J. Steigman is the founder and CEO of Steignet, which analyzes residential real estate deals. Steigman is an international chess champion and was ranked #1 for his age for eight years. The youngest chess champion in the U.S. at age 10, he beat Bobby Fischer’s record at 13, was an All-American for eight years, and represented the U.S. in numerous international competitions. Steigman combines his pattern-recognition capabilities with his finance and real estate backgrounds to disrupt the residential real estate market.
A.J. attended Emory University’s Goizueta Business School on the Goodrich C. White academic scholarship and graduated with Honors with concentrations in finance and management. He has an MBA from The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania as a triple major in finance, real estate, and entrepreneurial management, and graduated with honors. He is a Lyme disease survivor and in his free time, tries to help out others affected by the disease.
Doug Ducey is an American politician and businessman who served as the Governor of Arizona from January 2015 to January 2023. Born on in Toledo, Ohio, he grew up in a working-class family and later attended Arizona State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration.
Before entering politics, Ducey had a successful career in business. He was the CEO of Cold Stone Creamery, a popular ice cream franchise, where he played a significant role in expanding the company’s reach. Under his leadership, Cold Stone Creamery grew from a small chain into a nationally recognized brand.
Ducey’s political career began in 2010 when he was elected as the Treasurer of Arizona, focusing on fiscal responsibility and economic management.
As Governor, Ducey emphasized economic growth, tax reductions, and education reform. His administration tackled issues such as job creation, healthcare, and public safety, while advocating for conservative policies.
Anthony Wanger is a serial entrepreneur, operator, and investor with a proven track record in the digital infrastructure industry. A 3X founder, he co-founded and led IO Data Centers, a pioneer in modular data center technology later acquired by Iron Mountain in 2018.
Originally from Chicago, Wanger began his career in corporate law with Sterling Partners, where he developed a passion for tangible assets and the emerging Internet economy. He went on to build and operate large-scale data centers in Scottsdale, Arizona, driven by an unwavering focus on customer service and innovation.
Based in Phoenix, Wanger is known for his forward-thinking approach to technology and business. He encourages young entrepreneurs to learn from every experience and surround themselves with people they love working with—“that’s the key to success.” He holds a J.D. from Boston University School of Law and a B.A. in Political Science from Emory University.
Mindy Jones is a proud mom and business owner, community builder, and the powerhouse behind the all-female-owned and operated Amy Jones Group, a leading residential real estate team in Arizona. As the founder of Community on Purpose, a nonprofit organization supporting women and families, and an Exactly What to Say® Certified Guide, Mindy’s passion lies in building connections and empowering others to find their voice. With awards for leadership, impact, and community engagement, she’s a fierce advocate for women living big lives, thriving families, and helping others professionally blend purpose and passion. Fueled by faith and the belief that we truly can be the change we want to see, Mindy is also a single mother of a kindergartner who reminds her of what is truly possible with a little extra curiosity and a big dose of love.
John Solheim is the Chairman and CEO of PING, the renowned golf equipment company founded by his father, Karsten Solheim. He began making putters at age thirteen in the family garage and has since led PING’s growth into a global leader in innovation and engineering. With over 170 U.S. patents, John has shaped the design of golf clubs and bags across the industry and guided PING to become the first golf club manufacturer to achieve ISO certification.
Beyond business, John’s leadership extends to youth and community initiatives. He founded the PING Junior Solheim Cup, supports adaptive golf programs for wounded veterans, and helped fund a mobility lab at Phoenix Children’s Hospital. His contributions have earned him the Digger Smith Award and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the HSBC Golf Business Forum.
John serves on the Board of Trustees at LeTourneau University and lives in Phoenix, Arizona, with his wife, Sunny. They share six children and nine grandchildren. Outside of golf, John enjoys bicycling, woodworking, and fast cars.
Rabbi Pinchas Allouche is the founding Rabbi of Congregation Beth Tefillah and the founding dean of Nishmat Adin High School in Scottsdale, Arizona. A respected rabbinic leader, author, and international lecturer, he is known for his profound and compassionate insights into faith, mysticism, and modern life.
Born in France and raised across South Africa and Israel, Rabbi Allouche brings a rich global perspective and is fluent in English, Hebrew, French, and Italian. He serves on AIPAC’s National Council and the Orthodox Rabbinic Council of Arizona, and teaches Judaics to middle-school students in the Greater Phoenix Jewish community.
A blogger for The Huffington Post and The Times of Israel, Rabbi Allouche was named one of America’s “36 Most Inspiring Rabbis” by The Jewish Daily Forward. He lives in Scottsdale with his wife, Esther, and their ten children.
Todd LaPorte is the CEO of HonorHealth, a major Arizona health system encompassing six acute-care hospitals, outpatient facilities, a research institute, and community services. Since joining HonorHealth in 2001 and serving as CFO for most of that time, Todd has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s strategic direction and financial management. Since Todd became CEO in 2017, HonorHealth has become one of the largest employers in the Phoenix metropolitan area, known for its high-quality, accessible care and efficient care coordination. Todd also holds leadership roles in several professional and community organizations, including the Health System Alliance of Arizona and Greater Phoenix Leadership. He is a recognized figure in the industry, and has received accolades such as CFO of the Year by the Financial Executives International and recognition from Becker’s Hospital Review. Todd holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and an MBA from Arizona State University.
Captain Michoel Harari serves as the Command Chaplain for DIVARTY, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry), and as the Rabbi for Fort Drum, New York. In his dual role, he provides spiritual guidance, counseling, and religious support to soldiers and their families, fostering resilience and moral strength across the division. A dedicated leader and teacher, Chaplain Harari is committed to building bridges of faith, integrity, and community among service members of all backgrounds. His work emphasizes character development, ethical leadership, and the power of purpose in military life. Drawing on his deep background in Torah learning and pastoral care, he brings both compassion and conviction to his chaplaincy, helping soldiers find meaning and courage through challenge and service.
Eli is the Founder and CEO of JEG & Sons Inc., a Miami-based distributor of consumer electronics and wireless products. Since launching the company in 2006, he has grown it from a small startup into a nationally recognized industry leader serving major retailers and e-commerce platforms across the United States.
Beyond business, Eli is passionate about using communication as a bridge for connection and growth. He founded The House of More, a nonprofit dedicated to healing, purpose, and community transformation, and created MicDrop, a public speaking platform that helps people discover and share their authentic voices.
Eli is also host of the In Search of More podcast and a TEDx speaker known for his talk “Escaping Porn Addiction.” His work explores how vulnerability and communication empower authentic leadership and drive meaningful change.
Through every project he leads, Eli advocates for honesty, empathy, and courageous self-expression—values that inspire the next generation of leaders to communicate with clarity and purpose.
Rochel Zuckerman often finds herself searching for the perfect balance between work, family, and her community projects. Her love for Yiddishkeit and Torah inspire everyone she meets and her unique upbringing and life experiences allow for a more compassionate understanding of others. Mrs. Zuckerman has a background in fashion and design, having dressed various celebrities and music artists, which now shines through in her modest dress and passion for event coordinating and interior design. Rochel Zuckerman lives in Ft. Lauderdale with her husband and their eight children, where they share their big hearts with the community.
Katrina Long-Robinson is a pillar of leadership in Palm Beach County, bridging the nonprofit, government, and community sectors. With over fifteen years in education, six years as Vice Mayor of Westlake, and now as Senior Vice President of Public & Government Relations at Cornerstone Solutions, she’s known as a connector, strategist, and advocate who delivers results. Katrina has led transformative initiatives like the Palm Beach International Airport vendor RFP, supported key elections, and organized cultural task forces that strengthen collaboration among diverse leaders and organizations. A dedicated servant leader, she serves on boards including Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies, the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, and the Palm Beach County Black Chamber of Commerce. A graduate of Florida A&M University and member of Leadership West Palm Beach, Leadership Palm Beach County, and Leadership Florida, Katrina embodies purpose-driven leadership that unites people and drives community progress.
Kenyon L. Link, CEO and Founder of Keen Ideas Consulting LLC, is a senior executive with over twenty years of experience leading and advancing nonprofit organizations. Renowned for his strategic vision and dedication to community development, he has devoted his career to improving the lives of youth and families across Palm Beach County, Florida.
As a former senior executive at one of the region’s largest nonprofits, Kenyon managed a multimillion-dollar division, expanding grassroots initiatives and driving systemic change. Beyond his professional role, he serves as Vice President and Kappa League Director of the West Palm Beach Alumni Chapter of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and on the Executive Boards of the Palm Beach County Black Chamber of Commerce and KWA Group Rise.
A Howard University graduate, Kenyon is a 2021 Nonprofits First Rising Leader and 2024 Leadership Palm Beach County cohort member. He is a devoted husband to Rosa and proud father of two.
Pastor Rae Whitely is a Jamaican-born faith leader, community organizer, and social innovator who turned early obstacles into opportunities for impact. Overcoming a childhood stutter, he learned the power of words to heal, unite, and transform.
As CEO of Trinity Counseling Center (TCC), he leads efforts to strengthen mental health, reentry support, and community recovery across Palm Beach County. He co-created the Palm Beach County Recovery Summit, “Reversing the Effects of the Crack Epidemic: Treating an Illness, Ending a War,” now in its second year. He also chairs the Palm Beach County Behavioral Health Committee, advancing regional collaboration and policy on addiction and mental wellness.
As a Lead Organizer with Faith in Florida, Pastor Whitely mobilizes over 800 congregations statewide in justice reform and leadership development. His life’s message is clear: faith must not only inspire worship it must transform the world.
Lester Woerner is the Chairman of Woerner Holdings, LP. a company based in Palm Beach,
Florida with investments in real estate, agriculture and financial securities. An
entrepreneur since the age of thirteen, he was the youngest person, at age twenty-seven, to be appointed
by a governor of Alabama to the State Board of Agriculture and Industries. Mr. Woerner was
the 2001 American Free Enterprise medalist, an annual award given by Palm Beach Atlantic
University in West Palm Beach. In 2010, Mr. Woerner was honored by the Weizmann
Institute of Science for his philanthropy. Lester is a resident of Palm Beach, Florida. Most
recently, Mr. Woerner and his son, Trent Woerner, purchased the Paramount theater in Palm
Beach and are working to restore the historical landmark. The revival plan is designed to
honor the Paramount’s nearly century-old architecture and history.
Erez Avramov, known as “the Man Who Refuses to Die,” is a resilience expert forged by life’s toughest challenges. A former elite commando and survivor of three near-death experiences, Erez has an intimate understanding of adversity and is driven by a relentless quest to uncover what motivates and holds us back. He is passionate about helping individuals and organizations transform adversity into growth. Drawing on his knowledge of human behaviour, habit formation, and decision-making, Erez developed the “Victory Path 360” system, a powerful framework for overcoming obstacles. Erez’s journey reflects profound lessons learned through openness, vulnerability, and determination. Currently training to qualify as a para-archer for Team Canada with hopes to compete in the 2028 Paralympics, he continues to inspire others through his relentless pursuit of resilience and growth. In his spare time, you’ll find him chasing new adventures and restoring old Land Rovers.
Selina Robinson holds a Masters degree from SFU and worked as a family therapist for over twenty-five years before entering politics in 2008 as a Coquitlam City Councillor. Elected to BC’s Legislative Assembly in 2013, she held her seat through 2020 and served in key cabinet roles, including finance during COVID.
A prominent Jewish official, Robinson faced backlash after calling Israel’s founding territory “a crappy piece of land” during a 2024 webinar. The comment sparked demands for her resignation, online harassment, and vandalism of her office. Premier David Eby dismissed her from cabinet, citing the need for her to repair the harm caused. She then quit the New Democratic Party because of antisemitism and double standards in her caucus and cowardly leadership.
She wrote a book, Truth be Told, about her experiences as a Jew in government during the time of escalating Jew hatred. This book is the ‘deep work’ the Premier said that she needed to do.
Michael Nemirow, based in Vancouver, BC, has a proven track record of leading and scaling businesses across manufacturing, distribution, aerospace, service industries, and international business development. Currently, he consults businesses on scaling operations and advises Beyond Oil Ltd. (CSE: BOIL), an innovative food tech company based in Israel, as they expand internationally.
As CEO and co-owner of Greenstar Plant Products, Inc., Mr. Nemirow transformed the business by setting a new strategic direction, divesting non-core assets, and acquiring a complementary brand. Under his leadership, Greenstar became an internationally recognized manufacturer of advanced fertilizers and plant nutrients, with products sold in North America, South America, Europe, and Australia, before being sold to a public U.S. company.
Previously, at MDA Corporation, a leading Canadian aerospace company, Mr. Nemirow founded a global oil & gas and mining unit, pioneering space-based monitoring solutions. Throughout his career, he has excelled in driving strategy, execution, and growth.
Gilad Babchuk is the co-founder and CEO of Compass and a seasoned social entrepreneur with twenty-eight years of global experience in launching and leading new ventures. Gilad serves as a consultant to international companies on the future of work and progressive education and does development consulting for a multinational biotech company. Prior to Compass, he founded and led Groundswell, an alternative business school in Vancouver that focuses on holistic education to “incubate the person.” Before moving to Canada, Gilad was CEO of the Institute for Democratic Education in Israel, where he developed innovative teacher and principal training programs and served as a strategic consultant. Recognized as one of Israel’s 50 most influential educators, he holds an MA in political and civic leadership from Tel Aviv University. Now based in Vancouver with his wife and five children, Gilad is known for his mentorship and legendary hummus.
Michelle Ray is a sought-after international keynote speaker, entrepreneur, author, and educator who emphasizes the importance of leadership and accountability at all levels. She helps organizations create engaged workplaces, develop exceptional leaders, and revitalize cultures with practical strategies. With a proven track record, Michelle has driven record-breaking revenues in the media and cinema advertising industries and expanded her leadership expertise as a program director with Junior Achievement, fostering partnerships to educate future generations about business.
Now based in Vancouver, Canada, Michelle inspires individuals to master personal leadership—the ability to take charge of oneself in any situation. She speaks passionately about self-actualization, authentic leadership, positive communication, and change. Featured in Inc., Investors Business Daily, and The Globe and Mail, Michelle is also the author of Lead Yourself First! Indispensable Lessons in Business and In Life.
Dr. Cecil Hershler is a physician, storyteller, actor, and poet. He immigrated from South Africa to Canada in 1974. His works include a story on a Yiddish poem, which was put to music and broadcast on CBC–Outfront; the movie, The Healing Journey (1992, Ark Films), which incorporated storytelling with myth-making and singing and was aired on Vision TV and Education Network. For the past three years, Cecil has been writing poems in narrative prose. More recently, Cecil has combined dance choreography with storytelling and told stories that explored his Jewish and South African roots.
As Chief Communications Officer for the City of Vancouver, Maria leads and provides executive direction for all communications and engagement as a member of the City Leadership Team. Before moving to Vancouver in 2020, Maria served at Queen’s Park in Toronto for over a decade, culminating in her role as Director of Communications and Intergovernmental Affairs, supporting multiple Ontario premiers. Her focus has been high-profile public sector communications. She spearheaded communications for international trade, business, and research missions to nearly a dozen markets, including India, Japan, Hong Kong, and Israel. A member of Temple Sholom in Vancouver, she serves on the Board and is active in Jewish life. She is a fellow of the 2024-26 Wexner Heritage Program Vancouver cohort. Maria holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours with Distinction) in Political Studies from Queen’s University, Kingston.
Karen Levitt is the Deputy City Manager at the City of Vancouver, and has held various positions at the City over the past thirty years, including Director, Business Planning and Project Support, Deputy City Treasurer, Director of Olympic Games Strategic Planning, and Manager of Financial Planning. She is currently on the Board of E-Comm 911, the agency responsible for providing emergency communications in British Columbia, and has previously served on the boards of a number of Vancouver community-serving agencies. Ms. Levitt has an undergraduate degree in Psychology from UBC, and an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario. Alongside her professional commitments, she dedicates significant time to community work and mentoring young adults.
Daniel E. Friedmann is the Director at Solutum Technologies which focuses on solving the plastic waste problem. Prior to that, he was the CEO and Chairman of Carbon Engineering, where he concentrated on capturing carbon from the air to mitigate climate change. Before that, he served as the CEO of MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates, “Canada’s largest space systems company” and the world’s largest commercial communications satellite manufacturer, for 20 years. He holds a Master of Applied Science in Engineering Physics from the University of British Columbia, graduating in 1983. He has received several accolades, including recognition as a Technology, Media, and Telecommunications TopGun CEO, as well as the Dean’s Medal of Distinction from the University of British Columbia’s Faculty of Applied Science.
Daniel is also the author of several books on reconciling the biblical account with scientific observation, using his biblical clock formula.
Mark Gurvis is the CEO of the Ronald S. Roadburg Foundation. From 2013-2020, he served as Executive Vice President of Jewish Federations of North America, the number two professional position in the Federation movement’s network organization.
Mark served as CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver for over ten years. During his tenure, the Federation saw significant increase in annual fundraising and planned giving assets, developed an extensive strategic relationship with the Upper Galilee region in Israel, and dramatically enhanced the Greater Vancouver Jewish community’s profile and influence within the national Canadian Jewish scene.
Prior to his tenure with the Vancouver Federation, Mark worked at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland in a variety of roles, including as Associate Vice President, and as Co-Executive Director of the Jewish Education Center of Cleveland.
Mark and his wife, Leah Pomerantz, returned to Vancouver in 2022 from Brooklyn, NY, where their three adult daughters live.