JProStL invites you to participate in our Summer Conversation Series, featuring 5 unique professional development opportunities. Connect with other professionals in the St. Louis Jewish community and learn something new. JProStL Summer Series is for staff who work at least 20 hours in the St. Louis Jewish Community.
Bring your lunch, snacks and beverages will be provided.
BEAUTIFYING SPACES - Thursday, June 26 | 11:30-1:15 pm
with John Wilson and Scott Berzon
We’ll start at The J at 11:30 am and continue the tour at Jewish Federation with lunch and conversation. Join John Wilson of the J and Scott Berzon of Jewish Federation for a tour of Millstone Campus Art, including The J and Jewish Federation Kaplan Feldman Complex. We’ll explore the art personally selected and donated by Michael Staenberg that graces our campus grounds and the walls of our facilities. Discuss how to create a productive and feel-good work environment that involves a balance between practical elements and subtle touches that make our spaces pleasant and motivating.
NAVIGATING CRUCIAL CONVERSATIONS - Wednesday, July 9 | 12:00-1:15 pm
with Rachel Holtzman
Rachel was the collaborating writer of Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew, a book by Emmanuel Acho and Noa Tishby. This session creates a space for staff of all backgrounds to discuss Judaism, Israel, and antisemitism and to gain context and confidence when navigating crucial conversations on these topics.
USING YOUR VOICE IN THE WORKPLACE - Monday, July 21 | 12:00-1:15 pm
with Rebekah Scallet and Joan Denison
Increase your self-awareness and confidence at work by exploring your communication style, emotions and the impact of your words through voice and speech. Rebekah is Artistic Director of The J’s New Jewish Theater and the new president of JProStL and Joan Denison, President and CEO of Covenant Place, has an extensive background in training on presentational skills and public speaking.
A DIALOGUE ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH - Thursday, July 31 | 12:00-1:15 pm
with Celeste Souza, LCSW, Chief Program Officer, and Michelle Hastings, PhD, Clinical Services Supervisor, JFS
Recognize and name the challenges so many are facing these days, including the wide range of mental health and emotional challenges. Discuss ways to foster understanding, reduce stigma and promote supportive and accepting environments in our professional and personal lives.
AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP - Thursday, August 7 | 12:00-1:15 pm
with Danny Cohn
How can you best show up as a leader at work, no matter your professional experience, role or years of employment? Authentic leadership goes beyond accomplishing goals to create meaningful relationships and contribute to a positive work culture. Learn about Danny’s professional journey and leadership qualities with time to explore your own values, challenges and desire to be motivated and inspire others.
Series Chair
Scott Berzon
2025-26 Board
President – Rebekah Scallet (The J)
Co-Vice Presidents – Helen Turner (STL Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum) and Susan Kemppainen (Mirowitz Center/Covenant Place)
Past President – Rabbi Lori Levine (Shaare Emeth)
Special Events Chair – Samantha Wendling (TI)
Professional Development Chair -Scott Berzon (JFed)
New Staff Chair – Elyse Picker (JCRC)
Young Pros Chair – Maddie Lapp (JFS)
At Large Members: Jeremy Brok (LEAD STL), Rabbi Avi Feigenbaum (EMBY – Esther Miller Bais Yaakov), Jessica Fischoff (The J), Melissa Katz (JFS), Lauren Lourie (United Hebrew Congregation), Jordan Palmer (St. Louis Jewish Light), Shannon Rohlman (Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School), Rabbi Andrew Terkel (Be The Narrative/JFNA)
Staff
Karen Sher, Chief Impact Officer
Marci Mayer Eisen, JProStL Director
Lisa Magness, Resource Assistant