In the fall of 1991 when I returned to Detroit from Boston, Mass., I found myself looking for a connection back to the Jewish community.  Fortunately for me, a good family friend, David Bittker advised me to contact Bobbie Levine, then the director of the local B’nai B’rith office.  I scheduled a meeting with Bobbie and she invited me to attend the next board meeting, which I did and met John Rofel, the president.  This was the start of my involvement with B’nai B’rith.  

I began to learn about this international organization and what an impact it had on the Jewish people in every community.   Then I was told there was a need to get more young people involved, so I agreed to help form a new unit of young adults.   After awhile we successfully chartered a new unit , called Leadership Network and I  became the first president.  

The group focused on not just social activity, but also community service, sporting events and Jewish identity.  Many of the young people in the unit met, dated, fell in love, got married and had families.   Most of the new friendships I cultivated at that time are still alive and well today.  Sadly, however, as time passed, the group itself dissolved, but the friendships remained intact.  And, because I truly believed in the good work of B’nai B’rith I remained involved.  I held many positions on the regional board, and just this year accepted the position of president.  B’nai B’rith Great Lakes Region has a long history of leadership and doing for the community.  I am committed and excited to follow in the footsteps of great leaders.