Lawson Arney

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: April 16th

 

Board Member: Jewish Foundation of Memphis, Memphis Library Foundation

 

What is your occupation? Financial Planner at Raymond James.

 

Accomplishments: 40 under 40 at Raymond James.

 

Family: I'm married to Julie Arney and we have three children, Asher, 12, and twins, Genevieve and Sebastian (5).

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Um, maybe I’ve answered this enough that everyone knows just about everything about me :)

Jordana Berger

Jewish Community Partners

Birthday: August 9th

 

Board Member: Jewish Community Partners

 

What is your occupation? I am the General Manager for Olymbec USA, a large privately held commercial real estate company. I wear many hats as General Manager, I am the head of Human Resources and oversee all Property Management for the U.S. division of the company.

 

Accomplishments: My greatest personal accomplishment is being a mom to my amazing daughters Emma and Olivia. Professionally my greatest accomplishment is the continued success of Olymbec USA. My husband Jason and I were relocated to Memphis to build and run the U.S. division of the company. In June 2016, we had 12 employees, 2 trucks and roughly 10 million SF of property in the United States. Today, we have 110 employees, 30 trucks and close to 25 million SF of property in the United States. Olymbec USA is proud to be a part of the Whitehaven community, home to our U.S. headquarters just off Brooks Road.

 

Family: My husband Jason and I met in law school at Syracuse University in 2002. We have been happily married for 15 years. Jason is the Vice President of Operations and General Counsel for Olymbec USA. We have two daughters Emma, 13, and Olivia, 7. Emma attends Lausanne Collegiate School and Olivia goes to Bornblum. We enjoy spending time together as a family playing tennis, travelling, hiking, and biking. We also have a fur baby named Juice who we rescued from the Memphis Animal Shelter. Jason is originally from Montreal; Quebec and I am from New Jersey.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: From 2010 to 2013 I owned a tennis program called Teddy Tennis for children ages 2-5. My former business partner, Gordon Uehling is a key member of Novak Djokovic’s team. Tennis has always been a huge part of my life. Growing up we were close friends with the Jensen brothers (Luke and Murphy), they won the 1993 French Open men’s doubles title.

Dot Bilsky

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: April 8th

 

Board Member: Jewish Foundation of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? Retired from Apple Computer & Memphis City Schools

 

Accomplishments: Beth Sholom Synagogue past president

 

Family: Stanley & I have been married 60 years. We have three married children - one lives in New York City, one in Windsor, CO, and one in Framingham, MA. We have 5 grandchildren - 1 in California, New York City, Colorado and 2 in Framingham. We have two great grandchildren, one in California and another in Colorado. I have a sister and brother-in-law in Atlantic City, NJ. The family zooms a lot.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I used to run 5K’s around Memphis when I was in my 60’s & 70’s & have many trophies & awards because there was no one else in my age group running. My children teased me endlessly about this & always looked in the paper to make sure I had beaten someone in the race. 

Stanley Bilsky

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: July 8th

 

Board Member: Jewish Foundation of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley

 

Accomplishments: BS (Industrial Engineering) University of Michigan, Certified Investment Management Analyst, Retired Naval Reserve Officer, and longtime board member of Memphis Jewish Federation and Jewish Foundation of Memphis. Senior Vice President at Morgan Stanley.

 

Family: Dot and I celebrated our 60th wedding anniversary this year. We have three children, Maxine, Mark & Susan, five grandchildren and one and one-half great-grandchildren.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I am an open book. If they don’t know, they haven’t asked.  

Judy Bookman

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: July 10th

 

Board Member: JFOM, MJCC Living: Workplace behavior consultant, corporate trainer, executive coach

 

Accomplishments: Past President of Bornblum Solomon Schechter School Past President, Beth Sholom Synagogue Past Chair, Southwest Tennessee Ryan White HIV/AIDS Care Consortium National Reviewer for Council On Accreditation for Services for Children and Families MJCC Executive Committee member, VP for JFS

 

Family: Mother to Lillie Seeger, hospice nurse in Boston, MA, grandson Noah Seeger Mother to Sarah Barak, Seattle, WA, completing her MA in marriage and family therapy, granddaughters Roya and Talia Barak

 

Something others don’t know: I’m taller than I look.

Aileen Cooper

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: August 17th

 

Board Member: Foundation and Margolin Hebrew Academy

 

What is your occupation? Retired from career in financial consulting at International Paper

 

Accomplishments: Past president of Margolin Hebrew Academy, triathlete, marathon runner, graduated with a Master of Science in Applied Economics and Finance from MIT.

 

Family: I have six children ages 17 to 27. Jeremy, who is married to Ellin Mitchell, lives in NYC graduated from Columbia Business School and works for Stonehill in NYC. Dylan, 26, recently married Anna Cappell, and is in his third year at Hofstra Medical School in NY. Ethan, Dylan’s twin brother, married Elisheva Fridman last year, and works in private equity at Neuberger Berman in NYC. Elan, 22, is a senior at Columbia College. Serena and Yael are twins and are seniors at the Margolin Hebrew Academy.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I completed four, five day charity bike rides for Alyn Hospital in Israel. I also enjoy horseback riding and own a horse named Brianna.

Pace Cooper

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: April 9th

 

Board Member: Jewish Foundation of Memphis, Margolin Hebrew Academy, Baron Hirsch, Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority, Hilton Advisory Board, Baptist Hospital Foundation

 

What is your occupation? Hotel Development and Management

 

Accomplishments: Chairman - Memphis Shelby County Airport Authority, Past President - Margolin Hebrew Academy, Past President - Baron Hirsch Congregation, Past President - Holiday Inns Owner Association, Past Chairman - Multi Franchise Organization, Member of Hilton Advisory Council, Activist at AIPAC, Minority Partner of Memphis Grizzlies, Graduate of Columbia College and Harvard Buisness School, Validictorian of Yeshiva School of the South, Validictorian of Margolin Hebrew Academy, Average at golfing, biking, fishing, and basketball.

 

Family: My amazing wife is Aileen Cooper. We have six children ages 16 to 26. Jeremy, who is married to Ellin Mitchell, lives in NYC and attends Columbia Business School. Dylan, 24, attends Hofstra Medical School in NY. Ethan, Dylan’s twin brother, is getting married to Elisheva Fridman and works in investment banking/private equity in NYC. Elan, 21, is a junior at Columbia College. Serena and Yael are twins and are juniors at the Margolin Hebrew Academy.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: At age 14, I played Tevya in Fiddler on the Roof at the then Memphis Hebrew Academy. 

Robert "Bob" Eiseman

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: December 28th

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation & Memphis Jewish Home

 

What is your occupation? Physician

 

Accomplishments: Family & successful medical practice

 

Family: Wife - Tami - heart big enough for the 2 of us, Son - Monte - takes after his mother, a doer and friend to all, Daughter - Brandi - like her dad, less engaged but gives 100% when/if involved

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Undergraduate premedical degree - BS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Cindy Finestone

Chair - Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: July 6th


Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation


What is your occupation? I am a retired CPA.


Accomplishments: Led Ernst & Young LLP’s employee benefit practice before retiring. Currently serve as Chair of Memphis Jewish Federation. Previously was co-chair of the Federation Allocations Committee and co-chair of annual campaign. Co-chaired the community needs assessment study over 6 years ago. Currently serve as Chair of Memphis Jewish Federation and serve as a board member of JFNA Intermediate Cities and member of JFNA Audit Committee.


Family: Husband Mark of 31 years, two children, Deborah and Edward both grown and out of the house.


Something that no one would know about you: I played field hockey in college and worked at a ski resort for 3 years checking lift tickets.

Hal Fogelman

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: June 20th

 

Board Member: Federatioin, MJHR, Hillels of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? Marketing research surveyor

 

Family: Single

Rick Fogelman

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

(Pending)

Aviva Frieden

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: April 20th

 

Board Member: Federation

 

What is your occupation? President of Operations for Wogan Group Accomplishments: For the past 4 years I have proudly served as one of the YAD chairs. I also just concluded a two-year term as the PTA President at the Margolin Hebrew Academy.

 

Family: I am married to Yoni Freiden, a native Memphian. We have three wonderful children: Benny (12), Dahlia (9), and Margalit (6). We have lived in Memphis for 12 years.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I sang for Vice President Dan Quayle at the White House when I was 7 years old.

Jonathan Frisch

Memphis Jewish Federation 

Birthday: January 22nd

 

Board Member: Federation, Temple (ex officio), LITE Memphis

 

What is your occupation? Employee Benefits Broker/Consultant

 

Accomplishments: My 2 children

 

Family: Wife (32 years), 2 daughters

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I’m distantly related to “Fred Mertz” (I Love Lucy).

Herbert Gerson

JCP

(Pending)

Mark Gillenson

 JCP, Vice Chair Impact & Evaluation

Birthday: August 27

 

Board member: Vice Chair Impact & Evaluation of JCP Board

 

What is your occupation? University Research Professor of Business Information and Technology (MIS)

 

Accomplishments: Co-developer of a graphics system that was used to produce some of the special effects in the first Star Wars movie. Developed the first computerized facial compositor. Written five books on data management. 2019 and 2020 US Department of Homeland Security Under Secretary's Award for Science and Engineering

 

Family: Married to Leslie for 30 years. Two grown daughters.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I collect jokes as a hobby and do stand-up comedy when I have the chance.

Jason Goldstein

Memphis Jewish Federation Vice-Chair Community Impact

Birthday: February 23rd

 

Board Member: Federation

 

What is your occupation? Attorney at Harkavy Shainberg Kaplan PLC

 

Accomplishments: Building my career and family. Supporting Memphis and the Memphis Jewish Community.

 

Family: My wife is Leah Goldstein from Carmel, Indiana. We have a two-year-old son named Graham. My parents are Marci Goldstein, of blessed memory, and Chuck Goldstein. My sister Stacey Katz, her husband David, and son Jacob live in Kansas City.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I have never been skiing.

David Greenberg

JCP Treasurer

(Pending)

Michael Greenberg

Memphis Jewish Federation Chair Appointee

(Pending)

Jan Groveman

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: August 4th

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation, Tennessee Holocaust Commission, American Society for Yad Vashem

 

What is your occupation? I am a partner in a family-owned real estate and investment company.

 

Accomplishments: Living a life of purpose and dedication to family, community, Israel and world Jewry, having provided our children with formal Jewish day school educations from pre-school through high school and now seeing the next generation of our family in Jewish schools and supporting organizations and institutions with missions I consider to be crucial, inspiring, and transformative.

 

Family: My husband Andy and I were blessed to have had eight living grandparents at the time of our marriage who taught by example the meaning of love and lifelong dedication to one another and community. Having lost Andy’s mom when she was only 51, we remain grateful to be blessed to have our lives continually enriched by my parents, who are 91 and 92 and live a few minutes from our Memphis home, and Andy’s father in NYC who just celebrated his 99 1/2-year birthday! Together, we enjoy engaging daily in the lives of our children’s beautiful families and witnessing their inspiring leadership and commitment to their own communities in New York and New Jersey. We are the proud grandparents of six grandchildren who we adore and admire and from whom we derive great joy.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Just how much dark chocolate I consume daily

Paula Jacobson

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: October 13th

 

Board Member: Jewish Foundation of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? I am recently retired! Previously was President of Methodist Healthcare Foundation

 

Accomplishments: That is an interesting question. I have raised two incredible children and I am so proud of them. I have had a successful career, hopefully doing work that has helped all kinds of people with a variety of needs. I have run 13 marathons and many other races and am grateful for all of the above.

 

Family: I have two grown children: Jessica Birnbaum (husband Adam). She is an estate planning attorney in Chicago, IL. My son, Philip is Vice President of Joseph in Memphis and New Orleans. They are all amazing human beings!

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Why would I share something like that? Something that few people don't know is that I have an identical twin sister (and my brother and sister are twins, as was my mother).  

Charles Jalenak

JCP

Birthday: November 14th

 

Board Member: JCP, Temple Israel

 

What is your occupation? Financial Advisor

 

Accomplishments: Chair of JCP Investment Committee

 

Family: Married to Monique with four kids, Lucas, Ava, Sofia and Kyra.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Enjoys going to the dog park with his new puppy named Piper.

Michael Kaplan

Councel JCP

(Pending)

Michelle Katz

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: September 2nd

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation

 

What is your occupation? I am a kindergarten teacher and the Early Childhood Judaic Coordinator at the Margolin Hebrew Academy

 

Accomplishments: I have served on and continue to serve on many communal boards and committees. I just completed Prizmah's YouLead Program for educators. I am a past PTA President of the Margolin Hebrew Academy and served as the chair of Youth Programming at Young Israel a few years ago.

 

Family: My husband David and I have 5 children, two of whom are married. I became a grandmother almost a year ago. One of my married sons lives in Israel with his wife and baby. The other married son is moving to Memphis with his wife later this month.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I enjoyed skiing during my teenage years

Marty Kelman

JCP

Birthday: February 9th


Board Member:JCP, Facing History and Ourselves, University of Memphis Alumni Board, Unknown Child Foundation, Yom Hashoah Committee (soon to be on FCBE Dean’s Advisory Council)


What is your occupation? Financial Planner


Accomplishments: Founding member with Ron Lazarov of Kelman-Lazarov, Instrumental in my 17 years as President and Board member in aiding Lausanne Collegiate to achieve its current success, including its diversity. Built a successful wealth management firm over last 40+ years, helped turn around a 12-13-year-old group of boys at MJCC baseball team in the early 70’s and have been blessed to see some of their successes. Also, I introduced Ron and Debbie Lazarov to each other.

 

Family: Married to Dale Kelman, a psychologist who has helped so many people over the years in her profession, as well as our family. We are the proud parents of our son, Alex, who is a psychologist, too. He works as the Director of Training at UCLA Prevention Center of Excellence.


Tell us something that no one would know about you? I’m an open book, which probably means that people know more about me than they want to, but, I did hitchhike across the country from UVA to San Francisco in the summer of 1971. Also, I have played golf and chess a few times with Morgan Freeman when he lived in Memphis.

Martin Klazmer

Memphis Jewish Federation, Vice-Chair FedLED

Birthday: May 21st

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation, SweetBio

 

What is your occupation? I am the VP, Commercialization for SweetBio, a startup medical device company focused on wound care.

 

Accomplishments: Outside of work, my biggest accomplishment is convincing my wife, Jamie, to marry me on top of eventually moving her and our family to Memphis - every Memphis guy's dream (she loves Memphis)! I am also proud to say that I have been a part of many Jewish related non-profit organizations (AIPAC, ADL, Hillel) including the Jewish Federation in each city I have lived in (San Diego, Austin, and Memphis).

 

Family: I grew up in East Memphis. I am a 4th generational Memphian, and have always remained proud to call it my home even while living elsewhere. I married my wife Jamie who I met at the University of Kansas. Jamie is a full time mom and also is a certified health and nutrition coach. We have two children, Averi who is 4 and currently going to school at the JCC, and Ryan who is 2. We moved from Austin, TX to East Memphis about 3 and half years ago and are constantly spending time being active, enjoying the outdoors, and hanging out with our friends!

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: My favorite movies are romantic comedies (shhh) 

Reed Landau

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

(Pending)

Susanne Landau

Memphis Jewish Federation Chair Appointee

Birthday: August 25

 

Board Member: MJF

 

What is your occupation? I have a Masters in Managment but left the corporate world 16 years ago to become a Grant Writer for BRIDGES. I am also a consultant for GIVE BACK Memphis pro bono consulting group.

 

Accomplishments: In addition to focusing on my family, I have contributed to social justice work at Temple Israel, BRIDGES and Community Foundation of Greater Memphis. I was a member and then Chair of the Board of Trustees for St. Mary's Episcopal School during the initial phases of the most recent capital campaign and construction.

 

Family: I am married to Bruce Landau and we have two daughters, Elianna (26) and Olivia (24). Elianna recently became engaged!

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Growing up in Atlanta in the 70's, my family's hobby was riding our dirt motorcycles (adults) and motorized minibikes (kids) on the many trails in the undeveloped properties near our house.

Debbie B. Lazarov

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: December 18

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation, Co-Chair Memphis Lion of Judah, Lemsky Committee, and past Board Member and Executive Committee Member of Temple Israel

 

What is your occupation? Retired stockbroker, Merrill Lynch; retired investor relations manager, Fogelman Securities; retired communications, marketing, and public relations professional at Delta Life & Annuity Co., my own consulting business, and Memphis University School (MUS)

 

Accomplishments: Raising, with my husband, two children of strong moral character; becoming one of the first female stockbrokers in the country; everything I did at MUS; helping to organize a Women’s Spiritual Journey to Israel; my work with Lion of Judah, one of the most philanthropic groups of women in the world

 

Family: My husband Ron founded Kelman-Lazarov, Inc. more than 40 years ago and is the most generous, honest, and caring individual I know; my son Adam is an attorney at IndigoAg and is married to Jami, also a corporate attorney, and they have given me two precious granddaughters, Sonia and Audrey, with a grandson on the way; my daughter Amy is a licensed counselor with her own practice in Nashville and is married to Dr. Nanu Das, an oncologist at Vanderbilt. I am so proud of my husband and my children and their spouses.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I take great joy in proofreading.

Debbie H. Lazarov

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: January 2nd

 

Board Member: Federation, MJCC, and Anshei sisterhood

 

What is your occupation? Retired Speech/Language Pathologist, Owner of DebraJill

 

Accomplishments: A work in progress! However my biggest accomplishment thus far has been our 3 children....all married and living productive Jewish lives. Two of the three have given us the best gift ....five grandchildren!

 

Family: Married to Stuart Lazarov, the love of my life, whom I started dating at the age of 15 and have been married to for 34 years. As I mentioned 6 children now, that the 3 are married and 5 grand boys I’m fortunate to come from a family of givers. I’ve been led by example from my grandparents and parents. They served as presidents and board member of every major Jewish Institution and synagogue and I hope to set the same example for my children and grandchildren.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: My nick name, given by my husband is “Jane Dance”. (Bill Dance is a renown fisher man). Stuart always says I’m the best fisherwoman in the family! The second is that I love to rearrange furniture in our house.....unfortunately it traumatized our children since they thrive on familiarity

Ron Lazarov

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: September 6th

 

Board Member: Foundation, Past President Bornblum Jewish Community School

 

What is your occupation? Financial Advisor -Kelman-Lazarov, Inc. Co-Founder of Kelman-Lazarov, Inc with Martin Kelman 42 years ago.

 

Family: The original Debbie Lazarov - my wife of 38 Years, son Adam and his wife Jami with 2 Granddaughters - Sonia 5 years old and Audrey 3 years old, and new grandson due in 2022 residing in Memphis. Daughter Amy Das and her newlywed husband Dr. Nanu Das residing in Nashville.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: My hobby for the last 34 years is painting.

Emily Lennon

Jewish Foundation of Memphis, Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: February 2nd

 

Board Member: Foundation, Federation and MHA

 

What is your occupation? Physician Assistant at Stern Cardiovascular with Dr. Frank McGrew

 

Accomplishments: Aside from my kids, my efforts to engage orthodox women in our community through the Baron Hirsch Yoetzet Halacha Initiative and it's mikvah improvements.

 

Family: Husband Marc, Prosthetist and Orthotist; Ilan (11), Adina (8), Eitan (4), one on the way. Kids go to MHA. We go to Baron Hirsch. Our kids are 5th generation Memphians.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I was the captain of my freshman cheerleading squad at White Station High School.

Richard Lewis

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: November 24th

 

Board Member: Federation, Margolin Hebrew Academy

 

What is your occupation? Invest in consumer service businesses

 

Accomplishments: Beautiful wife and 3 amazing kids

 

Family: See above :)

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Been to more than 40 Dave Matthews concerts in 14 different states

Sarah Lewis

Memphis Jewish Federation, Vice-Chair Community Impact

Birthday: August 25th

 

Board Member: I am a board member of Federation and Purple Rain Soccer Club. I serve on the advisory committee for Jewish Family Service. I serve on multiple committees including the parents’ association at MUS. 

 

What is your occupation? I am a professional organizer. My company is Organized By Sarah. I help residential clients find order and organization in their homes.

 

Accomplishments: My biggest accomplishments are raising my 3 kids while actively volunteering and starting my own business.

 

Family: I am married to Jeff Lewis and we have 3 children. Jessica is 21 and is a senior at the UNC Chapel Hill. Rebecca is 19 and is a sophomore at the University of Alabama. Eli is 17 and is a junior at MUS. 

Stephen (Steve) F. Libby

Memphis Jewish Federation Vice-Chair Fundraising and Development

Birthday: December 30th

 

Board Member: JCC – Board, Exec Board, VP – Programming; Counsel B’nai Brith Sam Sloss Lodge of JFS Operations Committee BBYO Parents committee Plough Towers – Board member Federation – Board, Exec Board, Co-Chair -Grants committee Bernstein Scholarship Committee

 

What is your occupation? Attorney

 

Accomplishments: Married the right woman 31 years ago and 4 wonderful children

 

Family: Married to my high school sweetheart Betsy, have 4 kids: 1. Adam – age 28 – podiatry resident in the Bronx at St. Barnabus Hospital; graduate of Indiana University and Temple University Podiatry School 2. Margo – age 26 – operates MargoRebecca, a jewelry line prominently displayed at Dazzle; she too married her high school sweetheart, Nathan Franklin who we adore; graduate of University of Arizona 3. Justin – age 24 – works at Coyote Logistics in Chicago; graduate of Indiana University 4. Katie – age 21 – works at Jones Lang Lasalle in Chicago; graduate of University of Alabama

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I am actually quite shy (maybe not); I have an atrocious singing voice and my wife lays my clothes out for me in the morning since I can’t figure out what tie goes with what shirt or coat.

Alla Lubin

Memphis Jewish Federation, Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: March 16th

 

Board Member: Federation, Foundation and Bornblum

 

What is your occupation? Fashion consultant

 

Accomplishments: NWP board member, Co-chair Lion of Judah 2 times, Co-chair campaign

 

Family: I am married to Nathan Lubin we have 10 children together and 20 grandchildren, busy life!

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I am very shy in new groups

Jaclyn Marshall

Memphis Jewish Federation, Vice-Chair Leadership Development

Birthday: June 9th

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation

 

What is your occupation? Commercial Real Estate Broker

 

Accomplishments: I successfully broke into a male dominant profession and earned a rising star award of brokers under 35 by the San Francisco Business Times.

 

Family: I have a wonderful husband Steve and two great kids Joel (5) and Lily (3)

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I am proficient in Spanish.

Anthony Morrison

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: March 17th

 

Board Member: Foundation

 

What is your occupation? Financial Advisor

 

Accomplishments: I had always wanted to chair the annual campaign, and I'm probably the only person crazy enough to do it 4 times.

 

Family: I have been married for 27 years to Rachel, who is a dog trainer. My daughter Julia (22) just graduated with a business degree from Indiana University and will soon be working at Walmart eCommerce in Hoboken, NJ. Molly (20) recently transferred from IU to Memphis and continues to run the #1 Grizzlies fan Twitter account in existence.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: As much as I love my family, my job, my Grizzlies and Vols and my charity work, nothing brings me more joy than simply hanging out with my 2 dogs, Rudy and Izzy!

If I were to divulge something like the fact that my middle name is actually "Arnall," that would be too embarrassing.

Scott Notowich

Memphis Jewish Federation Vice-Chair Israel and Overseas

Birthday: May 26th

 

Board Member: Israel and Overseas Vice Chair of Federation, Board of Governors of Spring Creek Ranch, Chief Manager of Spring Creek Real Estate, board member of Youth Programs Inc. and the President of the MJH and Rehabilitation Center. Past President of Jewish Family Service.

 

What is your occupation? Wealth management industry for more than 30 years, serving in senior-level positions. Sr. VP at Highland Capital Management.

 

Accomplishments: Managing Director of the Israel Opportunity Fund LLC, works to identify emerging growth companies in the Clean & High Tech industries, on the board of over 10 years. Stark Aerospace, a subsidiary of Israeli Aircraft Industries, where he is the chairman of the finance and audit committees.

 

Family: Married to Jill who is a Jewelry designer (DebraJill Designs), with whom we have three children: Joey, Samantha & Deena.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Enjoys golf, fly fishing, and traveling. 

Laura Paller

Jewish Foundation of Memphis 

(Pending)

Eileen Posner

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: February 12th

 

Board Member: Federation

 

What is your occupation? Volunteer

 

Accomplishments: I have worked on the boards If Wings Cancer Foundation, Margolin Hebrew Academy and Baron Hirsch Congregation. Prior to becoming a board member, I was a Wings volunteer for 15 years. I was President/co-President of Baron Hirsch. I have been a Surrogate Parent for Exceptional Children with Memphis/Shelby County Public Schools for 20 years. I am currently a Senior Tech Buddy with JCP.

 

Family: I have two natural born children, two step-daughters, and one deceased step-son. I have a blended family of 18 grandchildren and 20+ great grandchildren.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: My nickname growing up was Elsie. My maiden name was Borden like the dairy, and their cow’s name was Elsie. 

Jimmy Ringel

Memphis Jewish Federation Vice-Chair Fundraising and Development 

(Pending)

Shelley Robbins

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: September 22

 

Board member: Facing History and Ourselves Advisory Board member, member Lemsky Committee, Co-chair Memphis Lion of Judah

 

What is your occupation? Retired marketing consultant 

 

Accomplishments: Happy children

 

Family:  Married to Reed Landau for 35 years. Two children--Ethan Landau, Harper Landau.

 

Something no one would know about you: My first job was at age seven--answering the phone at the Crosstown Kosher Meat Market, and making ground beef in a freezer with hanging sides of beef surrounding me.

Wendy Rotter

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: December 27th

 

Board Member: Foundation, VP & Exec. Committee of Temple Israel, Hillels of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? My husband and I own Comfort Keepers of the Mid-South, providing caregiving services to seniors to enable to them remain safe and independent at home or wherever they live.

 

Accomplishments: My proudest accomplishment, in partnership with my husband, is raising two children (now young adults) who are committed Jews and ardent Zionists. A personal accomplishment which meant a great deal to me was becoming a bat mitzvah as an adult at Temple Israel with Rabbi Micah Greenstein and wonderful friends.

 

Family: My daughter Rachel, 24, lives in Nashville and works for Vanderbilt University in development. A recent transplant from NYC, she has become involved with Nashville Federation’s NowGen, a great program to connect with Jewish 20-somethings. My son Jacob, 21, is a rising senior at University of Richmond. An accounting and data analytics major (Jewish Studies minor) will be interviewing with the Big 4 accounting forms this fall. He has been dating his Jacobs Camp sweetheart for 2 years.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I grew up on a horse farm, where every summer I cleaned stalls, worked in our vegetable gardens, and baled hay with my family. This is where my work ethic and commitment to creating shared family experiences were developed.

Judy Royal

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: September 13th

 

Board Member: Foundation, MJHR - Temple Israel - Temple Israel Sisterhood, Plough Towers

 

What is your occupation? Teacher - retired for many years

 

Accomplishments: I am most proud of the caring, responsible and loving family that I helped raise. Hope I have contributed to our community in some small way.

 

Family: 3 adult children - sons Paul (Natalie), Will, and Hayley- grandchildren, Craig (Leigh) Ellie- granddaughter live in Memphis. Daughter Natalie Royal Selzer(Ethan), - grandchildren Benjamin, Frankie and Sadie live in Cabin John, Md.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I was on a college bowling team that won the inter mural championship one year!

Jason D. Salomon

Chair, Jewish Foundation of Memphis, Professional Advisory Group Chair

Birthday: January 22nd

 

Board Member: Plough Towers,and Jewish Foundation of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? Attorney Accomplishments: Estate Planning Specialist, President of Plough Towers, Fellow of the Memphis Bar Foundation Former Scoutmaster of Troop 25 Memphis and Past Chair of Probate Section of MBA

 

Family: Married 25 years to Kayla; three children: Aaron (21), Batya (18), and Ahava (16)

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I met my wife in 3rd grade at the Hebrew Academy. 

Adam Saslawsky

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: September 22nd

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation

 

What is your occupation? Institutional Fixed Income Broker 

 

Family: I have two beautiful women in my life. My wonderful wife Emily and my two year old Daughter Ellie. 

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I play piano.

Elkan Scheidt

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

(Pending)

Irvin Serenco

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

(Pending)

Jill Shanker

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: June 15th

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation, Jay Uiberall Foundation, Memphis Child Advocacy Center, Bornblum Jewish Community School

 

What is your occupation? Retired attorney

 

Accomplishments: Getting my amazing husband to move to Memphis

 

Family: Husband, Scott - Children, Sydney (14) and Jack (11)

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I hate to be late!

Jerry Sklar

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

(Pending)

Elaine Wagner Skopp

Jewish Foundation of Memphis

Birthday: September 4th

 

Board Member: Jewish Foundation, Salon Circle

 

What is your occupation? Consultant for Tax Controversy Issues, Retired from IRS Collections.

 

Accomplishments: While at IRS in addition to being a Collection Officer I was a Recruiter for IRS, Federal Women’s Program Coordinator, Member of EEO Advisory Committee, Member of Collection Special Project Quality Improvement Team and was a Management Analyst. After my career with IRS, I started and continue to operate a successful consulting business helping individuals and businesses that need assistance with IRS matters.

 

Family: Married to Irvin Skopp, blended family with 6 children and 8 grandchildren

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Being one of only two female students in the Business School at University of Memphis, many successful business men owe their degree to me by allowing them to look at my answers on tests. 

Irvin Skopp

JCP Board

 

Birthday: November 9th

 

Board Member: JCP

 

What is your occupation? Retired. Previously I was a Vice President in the Real Estate Industry with Belz Enterprises for 45 years.

 

Accomplishments: A) MY 6 children and 8 grandchildren

B) COMMUNITY AFFILIATION Baron Hirsch Congregation - President 2012/2013, Board Member, Multiple Officer Positions since 1973 Jewish Children Regional Services - New Orleans, LA - Past Board Member Eruv of Memphis - Founding Member and first President, MHA Past President & Lifetime Board Member Jewish Family Service of Memphis - Past Board Member United Jewish Appeal – past member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet

C) AWARDS Ish Chesed Award - MHA - FYOS (1984), Memphis Jewish Federation Young Leadership Award (1983), Baron Hirsch Man of the Year Award (2013), MAAR (Memphis Area Association of Realtors) 2012 Community Service Award

 

Family: Elaine and I have a blended family of 6 children and 8 grandchildren. We have children in Florida, Georgia, California, Pennsylvania and 2 here in Memphis. We have grandchildren in Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Memphis. Our oldest grandchild just finished his freshman year at Elan University. Our youngest just had his first birthday. We have 6 boys and 2 girls.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I hate roller coasters.

Daniel B. Snyder

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: December 9th

 

Board Member: Federation, University of Memphis Hillel Advisory Board, past board member of the following: Temple Israel - ConnecTI - Young Jewish Professionals, New Memphis - Embark Alumni, FedEx Express Growing Professionals – Chairman, Sunday School Teacher TI, Soccer Coach - MJCC

 

What is your occupation? I serve as a Project Engineer in Strategic Maintenance Planning & Analysis for FedEx Express's Airline Division.

 

Accomplishments: FedEx Express- Attained QDM (Quality Driven Management) Expert Level - Highest Level Possible Yokohama Tire- Helped Launch a Greenfield Factory in West Point, MS from a 500 Acre Plot of Land into a 1 Million Sqft facility capable of producing 1 million Tires Annually. Mississippi State- Spirit of State of Award - Highest overall student award on the basis of student involvement, academics, and contribution to community. Inducted into Bagley College of Engineering Student Hall of Fame - Highest overall honor for an engineering student.

 

Family: Hometown: Crystal Springs, Mississippi. I have a Younger Brother, Jason. I'm excited for my parents as they enter into retirement in the near future.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: Competed in the 2005 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Representing the State of Mississippi. 

Ken Steinberg

Immediate Past Chair JCP

JCP

Birthday: October 5th


Board Member: JCP, past President of MJCC, the Levitt Shell, Federation and the Foundation.


What is your occupation? Investment banking with Duncan Williams, Inc.


Accomplishments: 37 years with the same company, passionate volunteer, community leader, and top producer in my company for over 20 years.

 

Family: Married to Jill and have 2 boys, Eli and Corey. Corey is married to Eleanor and they have one son, Dylan, who is 1 year old. 


Tell us something that no one would know about you: I saw 166 different bands in the year before COVID, but only 10 last year! I am very lucky to have been involved in the community and to lead such impactful organizations.

Kimberly Strome

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: May 24th

 

Board Member: Federation

 

What is your occupation? Pilates/Yoga/Meditation Teacher (Took my business online during Covid)

 

Accomplishments: Created and managed a very successful pilates program in Baltimore, MD. Taught yoga and was Teacher Manager for 200 yoga teachers at YogaWorks in Baltimore, MD. Co-founder of an outdoor yoga and hiking business called YOGAhikes in Baltimore. Created and advised in building a Mind Body Wellness studio for UTHSC, including a pilates, yoga and meditation studio in Memphis.

 

Family: I am married to Scott Strome, Dean of UTHSC Medical School. Arianna is 27 and in her fourth year of medical school at the University of Michigan. Sophie is 25 and in her third year of vet school at Virginia Tech. Max is 23 and is working as a computer analyst in ML as he pursues a Masters in Computer Science at Columbia University.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I ran the inaugural Breast Cancer Marathon in Jacksonville, FL in memory of my mother in law.

Jason Susser

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: January 27th

 

Board Member: Federation

 

What is your occupation? Immigration Attorney

 

Accomplishments: I co-authored a book in my field called Immigration for Startups: A Guide for Founders. I regularly speak about immigration law for the startup ecosystem particularly at top MBA programs in the US. I co-founded a legaltech company in Memphis called Visalaw.ai. Before children, I climbed several large mountains in the US (Grand Teton, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Whitney, Ancient Art).

Family: My wife, Courtney, is a Nurse Practitioner at West Cancer Center. We’ve been married since 2015, and have two wonderful children, Sunny (almost 4 years old) and Cooper (4 months old). 

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I'm a citizen of three countries (U.S., Israel, and Canada).

Elissa Taub

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: March 12th

 

Board Member: Federation, Chair of a national committee with the American Health Law Association, member of a national committee for the American Immigration Lawyers Association, previously served on the Board of Trustees for Temple Israel, and have served on the JCC's Literary and Cultural Arts Committee for the past several years.

 

What is your occupation? I am an immigration attorney with Siskind Susser. Professionally, I've been a practicing attorney for the past 20 years, 13 of them with Siskind Susser. My law practice focuses mostly on immigration for healthcare professionals.

 

Accomplishments: As a frequent business traveler who doesn't like to take work home with me, for 2020, one of my biggest accomplishments has been to work full-time from my house since March! I am the co-author of The Physician Immigration Handbook with Greg Siskind, which is now in its 5th Edition. 

 

Family: I am married to Marc Taub, and we have two children: Seth (15) and Ari (13). Both boys attend St. George's. We also have 2 dogs: Sebastian, a Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier, and Berry, a Goldendoodle.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I was a competitive gymnast (though not nearly Olympic caliber) from age 3-15 and taught gymnastics for a year between college and law school. 

Andie Uiberall

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: May 16th

 

Board Member: Memphis Jewish Federation, Jay Uiberall Foundation, Kemmons Wilson School at University of Memphis

 

What is your occupation? Retired Assistant Education Administrator for Memphis City Schools/ retired CLUE teacher

 

Accomplishments: Memphis RotaryTeacher of the Year; Tennessee TAG (Talented and Gifted Association) Teacher of the Year; Past President-Beth Sholom Synagogue

 

Family: Married to Michael Uiberall / 3 amazing grandchildren

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I was Iowa City High School Barn Dance Queen.

Keri Unowsky

Memphis Jewish Federation

Birthday: March 20

 

Board Member: Beth Sholom Synagogue, Plough Towers and Memphis-Shoham Partnership Committee.

 

What is your occupation? In-house counsel with First Horizon Bank.

 

Accomplishments: I was Chairperson of Beth Sholom Lox Box for six (long) years, and I have served as Vice President of Ritual on Beth Sholom’s Executive Committee for the past three years. However, my biggest accomplishments are my two children, who agree to read their bar and bat mitzvah haftorahs each year just to see their mother smile. And, I also managed to fit 72 of our closest friends into our house for an Erev Rosh Hashana dinner. It was wonderful.

 

Family: My husband Dan and I have been married 23 years.  We have two children – Sarah, who is 20 and a junior at University of Rochester in New York; and Micah, who is 17 and a senior at MUS.  No grandchildren yet, but we do have a dog, Sunny, whom we love to spoil.

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: During my younger days, I loved to play basketball and was a point guard on my high school basketball team. I had a great outside shot.

Scott Vogel

Chair JCP

Birthday: November 11th

 

Board Member: JCP, ALSAC/St Jude

 

What is your occupation? Incyte Security

 

Family: Stacy and 3 kids

Craig Weiss

Memphis Jewish Federation Vice-Chair Security

Birthday: January 20th

 

Board Member: Federation, Paragon Bank (Chairman), Memphis Shelby Crime Commission, Memphis Child Advocacy Center (Chair) United Way of MidSouth, International Boards - BBYO (Vice Chair and Treasurer) and JCC Association

 

What is your occupation? Tower Ventures - cellular tower business, Central Defense Security & Staffing

 

Accomplishments: Memphis Business Journal-Top 40 under 40, Christian Brothers High School - Hall of Fame Fogelman College of Business and Economics - Outstanding Alumnus Past President Memphis Jewish Community Center

 

Family: Wife Cathy (From Indianapolis), Sons Isaac (20) and Ari (18) both University of Texas, Daughter Ava (16) Hutchison High School

 

Tell us something that no one would know about you: I worked for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1991-1996.