Good evening, and thank you, Avi, for your heartwarming introduction. I want to thank the committee for this great honor. I’d like to share a bit of my Jewish background. It shaped my connection to Judaism throughout my life.
I grew up in a Jewish neighborhood in Chicago. We belonged to a traditional synagogue. My family kept kosher. We observed Shabbos — and its wonderful traditions. My mother even made delicious challah.
My father was one of 10 children. We had a large family in the Chicago area. For holidays, and many other times, the family would gather at our home. We’d have over 35 people. We’d set up tables from the dining room all the way through the house.
For High School, I went to the Chicago Jewish Academy. After classes in the day, I went to Yeshiva for more classes. I won a scholarship to a Jewish Orthodox overnight camp as a teenager. I became Orthodox when I returned home and even started wearing tzitzit! My grandfather founded an Orthodox synagogue in another part of Chicago. He was President. When he died, my father became President. I’d go along sometimes with my father to this synagogue.
Judaism was very important to my family. It became deeply ingrained in me. Judaism has always been a meaningful part of my life. It has always been important to me to contribute to the Jewish community, to be part of the Jewish community, to participate in a broad range of activities. When I came to Philadelphia for my Ph.D. in the sciences, I also returned to traditional Jewish practices.
My connection to the Jewish community goes beyond synagogue life. It includes many years on the Philadelphia ADL Board, and my late wife, Charlene, and I spent a year in Israel doing academic work.
Charlene and I came to Society Hill Synagogue when we were looking for something a bit different. We looked for a place with the same religious values and customs we were used to. It mattered to us to find a friendly, open, welcoming place. Society Hill Synagogue met our needs. We felt connected with our ancestry here. Rabbi Winokur was a warm and interesting person, and we joined in 2008.
I was thinking about how I could give back. I had a great traditional background. I knew the Hebrew prayers well. I was a professor. I loved teaching. I started the Introductory Hebrew class at the synagogue for adults in early 2012. I taught this weekly class for about nine years, into the beginning of Covid.
I loved teaching this class. The students were wonderful and interested. I think it meant a lot to them, too. I’m grateful that the synagogue gave me this opportunity.
During Charlene’s terminal illness and passing from brain cancer, I received so much support from the synagogue community. Members of the synagogue handled the entire shivah. It absolutely floored me how many people came, and were there for me afterwards. They helped me get through that really awful time. It was a very difficult time for my son, Joel, as well.
I wanted to acknowledge that support and do something special for the synagogue. The opportunity came along with the Capital Campaign. I was delighted to contribute in a meaningful way. This Social Hall is named for Charlene. It means a great deal to me to have been able to honor her and give back to the synagogue we both loved.
I remained connected and active in the synagogue community as I moved forward in life. I was fortunate to meet Monica Fread eight and a half years ago and find love again. I quickly brought her to the synagogue. This community was warm and welcoming to her. Monica feels at home here, just as I do. I thank Society Hill Synagogue for embracing her.
This synagogue has been a significant part of my life. I’ve enjoyed participating in many activities, from hosting dinners for members, attending social justice rallies, talks, Triple Chai events, etc. For the 2025 BookSmiles book drive, Leanne told me I was one of the top two donors. She said, “You and Monica kept showing up with carload after carload of books!”
I love the interesting and varied activities going on at the synagogue. Most importantly, that includes the beautiful and meaningful services. Last Saturday, when I was called to the bimah to recite prayers, it felt like being at home. When I go the synagogue, no matter what is going on, it feels like a place where I belong.
Society Hill Synagogue has been a wonderful community for me. I look forward to being more involved with the synagogue going forward. Thank you again for this special honor. Shabbat shalom.
