Mayberg Foundation Honors Former GW Hillel Executive Director Adena Kirstein for Transformative GW Hillel Leadership

Last week, Mayberg Foundation leadership joined the GW Hillel community to express their deep gratitude to Adena Kirstein, marking her 15 years of remarkable service as GW Hillel’s executive director. In his remarks, Mayberg Foundation Trustee Louis Mayberg—who served as GW Hillel’s president for more than 10 years—commended Adena for her transformative leadership, which shifted the organization from a program-focused model to a relationship-driven, inclusive community.

"Among the many nonprofit leaders I’ve encountered, few have impressed me as deeply and consistently as Adena Kirstein," Louis said.

Throughout her tenure, Adena navigated significant challenges, including the construction of a new Hillel facility during the pandemic; securing Hillel’s $1.2 million budget with limited resources; guiding the organization’s Capital Campaign; and launching the creation of its endowment. She accomplished all of this while supporting students through unprecedented times and creating a "vibrant hub of Jewish life" where students can "discover their Jewish potential."

Adena’s dedication not only strengthened GW Hillel’s foundation but also fostered a lasting culture of warmth and belonging for students, staff, and the broader community. "Adena, I want to thank you for your courage, your kindness, and your unwavering commitment. It has been an honor to work alongside you for all these years," he concluded.

The celebration also featured heartfelt presentations from GW Hillel Board Chair Robert Snyder; GW University President Ellen Granberg, who presented Adena with a framed version of the article announcing GW Hillel's new home; Hillel International CEO and President Adam Lehman; GW Hillel Assistant Director Sara Evangelista, who announced the naming of the GW Hillel sukkah as the Kirstein Family Sukkah; and former and current JSA co-presidents Aidan Cullers, Alana Mondschein, Noah Shapiro, and Nadine Katz, all of whom shared their appreciation for Adena’s leadership and legacy.

The entire Mayberg Foundation team wishes Adena hatzlacha rabbah—good luck—as she steps into her new role as chief advancement officer at Milton Gottesman Jewish Day School.