A message from Rob Nagus, CEO Calgary Jewish Federation

by Rob Nagus 

(Calgary) – The High Holidays have passed, the municipal elections are behind us, and we congratulate our new Mayor, Jeromy Farkas, wishing him every success in his new role. The Blue Jays made our country proud but ultimately left many of us heartbroken. And while life continues here at home, we all remain deeply aware of events unfolding overseas.

These are truly historic times for the people of Israel. The living hostages have finally returned home as we collectively mourn and await closure for those who did not survive. Through it all, Israelis continue to embody the resilience, determination, and spirit that have defined their story since the nation’s founding.

Having recently returned from Israel as part of our Coast-to-Coast Partnership with Federation leaders from across Canada, I was reminded again of the strength and hope that define our partner communities. Together with local Calgarians Cathy and Marty Cole, Joyce Kerr, and Rachel Simantov, I visited the Galilee Panhandle (Etzba HaGalil) to witness firsthand both the challenges and the inspiring progress being made.

While the region is calmer than during my last visit in March, it is clear that much remains to be done—not just to rebuild what was lost, but to create a better future by investing in youth, education, and community capacity. We received numerous thoughtful proposals for meaningful initiatives that will strengthen and uplift the people of the north.

It was also an honour to represent Calgary Jewish Federation at the Cornerstone Ceremony for the new Senate Building at Tel Hai College (soon to be Tel Hai University). This institution will serve as a powerful driver of growth, opportunity, and development for the entire region.

Back home, our annual UJA Campaign is off to a strong start, thanks in large part to a highly successful event featuring Jonny Daniels, chaired by Melissa Mendelman and Tamar Zenith. Under their leadership, we reached a broad audience—including many non-Jewish allies—to share the challenges our community faces and the vital role that Federation plays in addressing them.

This year, our priorities remain clear:
• Ensuring the security of our community,
• Combating antisemitism and advocating on behalf of our shared interests, and
• Growing our Integrated Bursary Program so that every child has access to Jewish education, camp, and community life.

As I approach my first anniversary in this role, I am filled with pride and gratitude. My wife, Katie, and I have been embraced by this incredible community, and we are deeply thankful for the opportunity to work alongside all of you—to ensure a vibrant, proud, and enduring Jewish future in Calgary, across Canada, and around the world.

B’Shalom.

Rob Nagus is CEO, Calgary Jewish Federation