Speech of Outgoing President Marilyn Cohen

Good evening INR sisters and guests:

Reflecting back over the past 3 years as your Region President I’m overwhelmed by a great sense of accomplishment and nostalgia. Over the course of my tenure, we have witnessed and contributed to significant events, programs, milestones, joyful times and tragic ones too. I will soon share in greater detail but I want to stress that these achievements were not mine alone. They belong to all of us who have worked tirelessly to bring excellent programs and initiatives to benefit the members of our region and I thank you for your unwavering commitment and support.

Now, let’s review some of the key programs and accomplishments from the past three years.

 We preceded my term with a virtual conference during the height of the Covid pandemic organized by Rusty Zackheim and Linda Steinhorn and the Women’s Network of Temple Beth Tzedek in Buffalo. Despite being installed virtually, my Executive and Board remained determined and unified, embracing the Torah Fund theme at the time,  B’Yachad (together), and enabling us to sustain our endeavors in that virtual world. Our journey began with exceptional training sessions for the INR Executive Committee, the Board, and all Affiliate Presidents or Contacts, facilitated by seasoned International WL consultants.

One of our early initiatives, spearheaded by our Israel Affairs Co-Chairs, Marion Mayman and Ruth Shapiro, was a virtual meet-and-greet with our sister kehillot in Israel. We received firsthand accounts from our representatives in Ashkelon and Karmiel, shedding light not only in 2021 but also on their developments last April. We delved into “Israel Beyond the Headlines,” gaining insight into the day-to-day life of Masorti communities in the South and North of Israel. We are fervently praying for their swift return to normalcy.

Since our region’s mandate is to provide resources, programming and expertise to all our Affiliated sisterhoods, we continually brainstormed innovative programs. We had to acknowledge the varying capacities among sisterhoods, particularly in terms of technological capabilities for virtual programs, Under the stewardship of Adele Weinstein, our Education/Programming VP, and her programming team, we produced a diverse array of engaging and informative programs. Every sisterhood member in our region was encouraged to partake in these enriching experiences.

Among the highlights were sessions featuring author Maggie Anton discussing her book, The Choice, Helene Herman recounting the captivating narrative of Jewish gangsters in America, and Jeryllin Payne, a Jew of colour and by choice, sharing her deeply moving personal journey.

Due to the prolonged impact of Covid, our Spring 2022 conference was hosted virtually on Zoom. Under the capable leadership of Carole Burke and Linda Shohet from the Shaare Zedek and Shaare Zion Beth-El Sisterhoods in Montreal, the event featured a diverse and enriching lineup. Participants enjoyed a unique Shacharit service, an insightful keynote address by Rabbi Nina Beth Cardin, a virtual tour of Jewish Montreal, a hands-on sustainability workshop, an engaging visit with Montreal’s Auberge Shalom women’s shelter, and a captivating musical performance by Cantor Heather Bachelor. These highlights contributed to a fulfilling, energizing, and inspiring day for all attendees.

You should all know, that our International Northeast Region stands out in its unique cross-border sensibility, unmatched by any other region. I often explore and highlight the cultural similarities and differences between the U.S. and Canada in my articles, such as the observances of Veteran’s Day versus Remembrance Day, Canada Day on July 1st versus U.S. Independence Day on July 4th, and the nuances between Canadian and American Thanksgivings. Additionally, we’ve given special attention to significant events like the passing of Queen Elizabeth II and the coronation of King Charles. A heartfelt thanks to Carole Burke, whose strong connection to her British origins provides us with invaluable insights and a distinctive perspective.

The programs I hold most dear were those led by our Torah Fund Vice President, Linda Boxer. As I’ve often shared, Torah Fund holds a special place in my heart. Growing up in the Conservative Movement, participating in USY and Camp Ramah, and witnessing my daughter earn her Master’s in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary have deeply influenced my commitment. Over the past three years, our Torah Fund programs have been both educational and inspiring. Conducted via Zoom, they featured three outstanding presenters. Lisa Ellison discussed the impactful role of Jewish women as social activists in the US and Canada. Josh Ehrlich, a cantorial student at JTS, captivated us with his musical prowess. Additionally, rabbinical student Alicia Rothamel moved us to tears with her passionate, intelligent advocacy for the Conservative Movement and the pivotal role of Women’s League and sisterhood.

To my dear members of my Executive Committee and Board – As I reflect on the past years of our journey together, where we traveled I am filled with immense gratitude. I really did feel like I travelled Hand in Hand and Heart to Heart with you all. Your dedication and support have been the backbone of our achievements and it is with a full heart that I thank each and every one of you for your invaluable contributions.

I do have to mention a few of you who were critical in making my work easier.

A special note of thanks goes to Joan Lowenstein, our immediate Past President and current Communications VP. Joan – your guidance and friendship have been a beacon for me. Your exceptional editorial skills have not only enriched our Chai lines newsletter but have also been a source of personal inspiration. Thank you for being my confidant and for always striving for excellence in all that you do.

To Rusty Zackheim, thank you for being my reliable resource on parliamentary matters and historical issues. Your wisdom has been instrumental in guiding our decisions and ensuring our compliance with all Women’s League rules and regulations.

Toby Maser – your availability and willingness to share your vast experience, especially in financial matters, have been a cornerstone of my presidency. Your insights have always led us in the right direction and for that, I am forever grateful.

Linda Boxer – working alongside you to tackle the challenges of Torah Fund has been an incredibly rewarding experience.  Your partnership has been essential in navigating our shared goals and commitments. Linda – I know that under your leadership as our next President, together with your new Executive Committee and Board, this region will be taken to even greater heights, steered by your talent, your knowledge of Women’s League and your great leadership skills. I wish you all Hatslacha Rabah, much success.   

I must also extend a heartfelt thank you to our Conference Co-Chairs, Adele Weinstein and Rivy Blass.  Your dedication and hard work did not go unnoticed and your patience with my nudging is something I deeply appreciate.  Your efforts have significantly contributed to our success.

Lastly, but certainly not least, I must thank my husband, Bob. Bob – your unwavering support and encouragement have sustained me through the busiest and most challenging times. Whether it was helping with d’var Torah articles or taking care of dinners when I was tied up on zoom calls, you made sure I could give my best to this role. I could NEVER have done any of this without you by my side. I love you!

As I pass on the mantle, I carry with me not just the pride of our accomplishments but the personal relationships that have enriched my life. Thank you ALL for being such an integral part of my journey as President. Here’s to all that we have achieved together and to all that you will continue to achieve.

To all of you, I offer my deepest gratitude and love – TODAH RABAH!