A Message from Rob Nagus, CEO Calgary Jewish Federation

by Rob Nagus

(Calgary) – The past month has been one of the busiest, most meaningful, and most inspiring periods in recent memory for Calgary Jewish Federation and our entire community.

Across our city, we have seen Jewish life in all its richness and diversity. Families gathered for community celebrations and educational programs. Children and parents came together to experience the joy of Jewish life and strengthen their connections to one another and to our traditions. Community members of all ages participated in thought-provoking conversations, learned from exceptional speakers, and engaged in important discussions about the opportunities and challenges facing the Jewish people today.

Amidst all of this activity, one of the most significant initiatives underway has been the final stages of our new strategic plan. Over the past several months, we have engaged deeply with community members, stakeholders, volunteers, and partners to envision what Jewish Calgary can and should look like in the years ahead. This process has been both inspiring and energizing, and we look forward to sharing it with the community in the next few weeks.

This month also marks an important leadership transition for Calgary Jewish Federation.

As we conclude the tenure of our outgoing President, Lisa Libin, I want to express my deepest gratitude and appreciation for her extraordinary service over the past four years. Lisa has gone above and beyond in every possible way, providing outstanding leadership during one of the most challenging and consequential periods in Canadian Jewish life.

From navigating the aftermath of the pandemic to responding to the profound impacts of October 7 and the resulting challenges facing Jewish communities across Canada, Lisa has led with strength, compassion, wisdom, and unwavering commitment. She has been a tireless advocate for our community, a trusted partner to our staff and volunteers, and a source of stability during uncertain times.

Her dedication has left an indelible mark on Calgary Jewish Federation and our community as a whole. On behalf of our Board, staff, and the entire Jewish community, I offer Lisa our heartfelt thanks for her remarkable leadership and service.

At the same time, I am thrilled to welcome our new President, Jerrad Blanchard.

Jerrad is no stranger to community leadership. He has been a tremendous member of our Board of Directors and an invaluable contributor to our strategic planning process. His passion for Jewish life, thoughtful leadership, and deep commitment to community have been evident in every role he has undertaken.

Many in our community also know Jerrad from his exceptional tenure as President of the Paperny Family JCC, where he helped guide the organization with vision and dedication. He brings a collaborative spirit, strategic thinking, and a deep love for our community that will serve Federation extraordinarily well in the years ahead.

As we turn the page and begin this new chapter together, I am filled with optimism.

The past month has reminded us of what makes our community so special: our resilience, our generosity, our willingness to learn and engage, and our unwavering commitment to building a vibrant Jewish future.

We continue to face challenges, but we also continue to demonstrate that when we come together, there is no limit to what we can accomplish.

With a new strategic plan nearing completion, strong volunteer leadership, dedicated professionals, and an engaged and passionate community, I firmly believe that the future of Jewish Calgary has never been brighter. The work ahead is exciting, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.

B’Shalom.

Rob Nagus is CEO, Calgary Jewish Federation.