JProStL Summer Series

Philanthropy in Conversation

Monday, July 20

With Ruth Lederman and Molly Salky

Join in a candid dialogue about building meaningful donor relationships, communicating impact, and navigating the day-to-day realities of fundraising work. Ruth and Molly will also reflect on their professional journeys and share stories and lessons from their experience working with organizations across the nonprofit sector. Designed as a fireside chat, the session will be guided by your questions—creating space for open discussion, practical insights, and real-world perspectives. Bring your questions to help spark a thoughtful, engaging conversation.

Ruth Lederman is Chief Development Officer at Raising the Resources, LLC and previously served 16 years as Vice President, Director of Development at Jewish Federation and 12 years as Vice President of Resource Development at Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater St. Louis. Molly Salky is a Senior Consultant with EMD Consulting Group and previously held campaign leadership roles at the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and Nine PBS, and is past Board Chair of Jewish Family Services.

Understanding Antisemitism Today

Wednesday, July 29

Antisemitism is not a distant or abstract issue – it is rising in frequency, changing in form, and showing up in our schools, institutions and communities in ways that demand immediate attention. Join our local professional leaders for a timely conversation on the evolving landscape of antisemitism, what we’re seeing locally and nationally, and how organizations are working to both address and prevent it. This panel will offer practical insights, tools, and strategies to help Jewish communal professionals be more aware of the current environment, recognize emerging trends, coordinate across institutions, and feel more confident when engaging in conversations on the topic.

Moderated by: Michael Lourie, V.P of Public Affairs, Jewish Federation of St. Louis
Panelists: Jordan Kadosh, Regional Director, ADL Heartland
Nancy Lisker, Regional Director, AJC St. Louis
Helen Turner, Director of Education at the St. Louis Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum

Managing Life Transitions

Thursday, August 6

With Katie Garland

Life transitions—whether personal or professional—can feel overwhelming. This workshop offers a supportive and reflective space to pause, connect, and navigate change together. Through guided discussion and shared experiences, participants will explore current life transitions, whether family or work, and gain clarity to move forward with intention. Together, we’ll build a sense of community while practicing self-compassion and resilience. Katie Garland is Advancement and Partnership Director at Crown Center for Senior Living where she previously worked as Client Services Director. Katie has a background as a wellness coach and brings perspectives as both the parent of young children and with an expertise in aging.

The Evolving Social Media Landscape

Thursday, June 18

Join us for a panel with storytelling & social media professionals as they present timely, real-world examples of social media in action. The discussion will cover best practices across platforms including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn—highlighting what works, what doesn’t, and what’s coming next. Gain practical insights and fresh ideas to strengthen your organization’s digital presence, storytelling, and community impact.

Moderated by: David Stetter, Director of Marketing, Jewish Federation of St. Louis
Panelists: Jordan Palmer, Chief Digital Content Officer, STL Jewish Light
Rabbi Chaim Landa, Associate Director, Chabad of Greater St. Louis
Colie Bushong, Digital Engagement Manager, Temple Israel

Making Strategy Work: From Daily Decisions to Big Picture Impact

Monday, June 29

With Barry Rosenberg

In today’s fast-paced and often resource-constrained nonprofit environment, having a strategic plan isn’t enough—success depends on your ability to put that strategy into action. Explore how to bridge the gap between planning and execution while keeping focus on the mission. Barry Rosenberg is a Professor of Practice at the Brown School of Social Work, WashU, after serving 20 years as President and CEO at Jewish Federation of St. Louis.

History of the St Louis Jewish community

Wednesday, July 8

With Rabbi Mark Shook

Join Rabbi Mark Shook, on the history of the St. Louis Jewish Community from the first Jews in St. Louis to the migration west and beyond, including the evolution of our community organizations, schools and congregations. Rabbi Shook shares stories you’ve never heard before and helps us understand the fabric of our Jewish community today. This is the most popular session each year at the JProStL New Staff Orientation. Rabbi Shook is Rabbi Emeritus at Temple Israel and former Adjunct Professor at St. Louis University, and currently serves as the Chaplain Coordinator, St. Louis County Police and Chaplain, St. Louis Division, FBI