Mayberg Foundation Joins Leading Voices at National Conference on the Future of American Jewry

Last week’s "The Great Diaspora: Visioning American Jewry at America’s 250th" conference brought together influential leaders, scholars, and changemakers shaping the trajectory of Jewish life in America. Co-hosted by The Rabbi Sacks Legacy and Reut USA, and convened at the UJA Federation of NY, the conference asked hard questions about the future of what has arguably been the most successful Jewish diaspora in history.

Strengthening Jewish Education and Identity

Drawing inspiration from the teachings of Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks zt”l, the event gave voice to hopeful and skeptical voices alike. A recurring focus – and one wholeheartedly supported by the Mayberg Foundation – was on the urgent need to strengthen Jewish education as a central pillar for Jewish continuity and resilience. As reported in eJewishphilanthropy, leaders and experts debated solutions to make Jewish education more accessible and inclusive. Another recurring focus was the bright light of the so-called “Oct. 8 Jews” who have reconnected with their roots since recent attacks in Israel.

The event featured a distinguished roster of participants, including Prof. Jonathan Sarna (Brandeis University),Ted Deutch (CEO, AJC and former member of Congress), Ellen Finkelstein (CEO, Hadassah), Eric Goldstein (CEO, UJA Federation of NY), Todd Sukol (Executive Director, Mayberg Foundation) and many others. The conference kicked off with opening remarks by Rabbi Sacks Legacy President Joanna Benarroch and Reut USA Founder and President Gidi Grinstein.

Todd Sukol’s Message: Unity, Torah, and G-d

Todd was a featured panelist at the “Future Perfect: Priorities for a Decade of Renewal of American Jewry” session. The panel, which was moderated by Caryl Stern (Chief Impact Officer, LionTree), included panelists Phil Darivoff (Chair Emeritus and Trustee, Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History), Ted Deutch, and Joni Blinderman (Executive Director, the Covenant Foundation), and respondent Michael Miller (former CEO of JCRC NY). It served as a culminating conversation for a day dedicated to vision, reflection, and collective action.

During the panel, Todd emphasized three main points: the importance of Jewish unity (K’lal Yisrael), the central role of Torah, and the significance of G-d. He argued that the Jewish people should see themselves as one connected group, responsible for each other’s future. Division, whether from within or caused by outsiders, puts all of us at risk.

Todd also spoke about the strength of Jewish tradition. He acknowledged that there are many valid ways to live a Jewish life, but said this doesn’t mean anything goes. He explained that foundational Judaism, a key value of the Mayberg Foundation, means we accept the idea that there are “70 faces of the Torah”—many perspectives to be respected. Still, we should feel comfortable pointing out when something falls outside those boundaries and is not authentic.

Lastly, Todd addressed the topic of G-d. He noted that many modern Jewish movements seem to avoid discussing G-d altogether. He encouraged everyone to respect each person’s individual spiritual path, but also not to shy away from the idea that Judaism is rooted in a sacred covenant and that every person has a spiritual essence.

“This was a special opportunity to learn from and collaborate with visionary thinkers who are deeply invested in the Jewish future,” Todd said. “The Mayberg Foundation was pleased to be included in this rich conversation.”

The Foundation congratulates all the organizers and participants, and looks forward to building on the insights and outcomes of this meaningful event. Read more about the conference at eJewishphilanthropy.