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Honoring Steven Lowy AM and Welcoming Bruce Leboff

Torch Passing in Keren Hayesod

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Honoring Steven Lowy AM and Welcoming Bruce Leboff

Dear Friends,

This past Wednesday, November 20th as part of Keren Hayesod’s Annual Leadership Conference, President of Israel H.E. Isaac Herzog hosted an extraordinary gathering at the President’s Residence in Jerusalem to pay tribute and honor Steven Lowy AM, who has served as the Chairman of the World Board of Trustees of Keren Hayesod since 2019. The event brought together distinguished leaders and beneficiaries and partners of Keren Hayesod, including representatives from the World Zionist Organization (WZO), the Jewish Agency for Israel, and the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), as well as Rabbi Berel Lazar, the Chief Rabbi of Russia. Together, they saluted Steven’s exceptional leadership and enduring contributions to Israel and the global Jewish community.

In recognition of his efforts, Steven Lowy was awarded the inaugural Keren Hayesod Ze’ev Jabotinsky Award for Exemplary Leadership—a testament to his vision, dedication, and impact. The award ceremony marked a moment of deep appreciation for Steven’s transformative role in guiding Keren Hayesod through pivotal moments, including the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and, most recently, Operation Swords of Iron, during which he spearheaded a $170 million emergency campaign.

Reflecting on this milestone, H.E. President Herzog praised Steven’s tireless work:

“Keren Hayesod has voiced a loud and clear voice on behalf of Jews around the world. You have done a tremendous job in pursuing the sacred goals of resilience, support, and rebuilding—as has your outstanding chairman of the board of trustees, Steven Lowy.”

Under Steven’s leadership and tenure, Keren Hayesod raised an astounding $1.1 billion, with $285 million directed to the Jewish Agency for Israel. These funds provided vital support for immigration and absorption, at-risk youth, the elderly, strengthening Israel’s periphery, enhancing the security of Jewish communities worldwide, and inspiring the next generation to forge deeper connections with Israel. During the recent war, his leadership was instrumental in rallying resources and ensuring immediate aid to those most affected.

His unwavering leadership reflects a profound commitment to the safety and resilience of Jewish communities worldwide while fortifying the strength and future of the State of Israel.

During the event, Steven Lowy AM expressed his gratitude:

“I consider it both a privilege and an honor to receive this award, which is a testament first and foremost to Keren Hayesod, its lay leaders around the world, and the professional team working tirelessly for the people of Israel and the Jewish communities around the world. I thank the President of Israel for hosting this event.”

During the event, Sam Grundwerg, Keren Hayesod’s World Chairman, delivered a moving tribute to Steven’s outstanding leadership:

“Steven is an exemplary leader who has become a personal friend. Through personal example and endless dedication, he has helped advance Keren Hayesod tremendously. I know that Steven and his family will continue to support the causes so dear to us all.”

Adding to the significance of the event, Bruce Leboff, the incoming Chairman of the World Board of Trustees, addressed the gathering with words of humility and optimism:

“I am humbled to be entrusted with the leadership of Keren Hayesod at this crucial and challenging juncture. Steven’s leadership stands as a role model for me as I step into this position. With the support of our generous donors and talented teams, I am confident we will continue to strengthen and support Israel and the Jewish people.”

The morning concluded with a moving tribute video that showcased Steven’s leadership journey, and the milestones achieved under his tenure. The video served as a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of unwavering commitment to Israel and the global Jewish community.

This heartfelt farewell not only honored Steven’s contributions but also set the stage for the future, as we look forward to Bruce Leboff’s leadership. Together, we remain steadfast in our mission to strengthen Israel and Jewish communities around the world.

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Welcoming Bruce Leboff

 
We are thrilled to welcome Bruce Leboff as the new Chairman of Keren Hayesod’s World Board of Trustees. Bruce’s unwavering dedication to the Jewish community and Israel, combined with over three decades of leadership in wealth management and philanthropy, make him the perfect leader for this pivotal role.

A graduate of Stanford and McGill Universities, Bruce’s expertise and passion for building stronger communities will guide Keren Hayesod into an exciting new chapter. We are confident his vision and commitment will inspire us all as we continue to strengthen Israel and the global Jewish community. Welcome, Bruce!

BRING THEM HOME

As we look to the future with hope and determination, our hearts remain heavy with the ongoing pain of war. We continue to pray for the release of the 101 hostages, the recovery of the wounded, and to embrace the bereaved families who tragically grow in number each day. May we find strength and solace together.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to Keren Hayesod.

Sincerely,

                                            

Sam Grundwerg                          Edna Weinstock-Gabay
World Chairman                        CEO & Director General

Thank you for your continued support and dedication to Keren Hayesod.

Sincerely,

Sam Grundwerg
World Chairman

Edna Weinstock-Gabay
CEO & Director General

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