JCC Association of North America is proud to announce the fourth cohort of the Martin Pear Israel Fellowship, an 18-month professional development program that immerses JCC professionals in a robust learning experience through in-person gatherings, web-based education, and an intensive Israel seminar, followed by six months of project implementation. The fellowship is designed to develop and retain JCC talent while cultivating a new generation of leaders deeply committed to Israel and Jewish communal life.
Now situated within the Center for Jewish Peoplehood, part of JCC Association’s new strategic operating framework, the Martin Pear Israel Fellowship reflects JCC Association’s commitment to strengthening Jewish identity, connection, and leadership across the JCC Movement. Named in memory of Martin Pear, z”l, the beloved longtime CEO of the Valley of the Sun JCC in Scottsdale, Arizona, the fellowship honors his enduring belief that Jewish professionals should be deeply committed and connected to Israel.
“The Martin Pear Israel Fellowship has consistently exceeded our expectations in both its depth and its impact,” said Dr. Andi Meiseles, director of the Martin Pear Israel Fellowship and senior advisor for Jewish education at JCC Association of North America. “Over the course of the program, I have seen fellows form meaningful relationships across the JCC Movement, wrestle honestly with the complexities of Israel, and translate that learning into thoughtful, creative initiatives in their home communities. As we welcome the fourth cohort, it is exciting to see how each new group brings fresh perspectives while building on the strong foundation established by those who came before them. The fellowship continues to prepare leaders who are reflective, connected, and equipped to make a lasting impact in their JCC communities.”
Reflecting on her experience in cohort 3 of the Martin Pear Israel Fellowship, Keren Ludvig, chief program and community engagement officer at the Sylvan Adams YM-YWHA in Montréal, Quebec, said: “Israel is a nuanced, complicated place and idea, where historical facts collide with deeply rooted emotion. The Pear Fellowship is the most incredible way to dive deep into what Israel has been, is, and could be. This fellowship is a learning opportunity that embraces you as an adult learner with your own ideas, identity, and experiences. In the Pear Fellowship, fellows will take away an incredible amount of new information, new experiences, new relationships and new analyses, and by the end, will feel equipped to embrace the complexities of Israel back at their JCC.”
The cornerstone of the fellowship is an intensive, nine-day seminar in Israel, anchored by monthly education sessions before and after the Israel experience. As a final component of their participation, Pear Fellows implement a project that brings Israel to their JCC in a new and purposeful way. Each new cohort is welcomed by program alumni into the broader Martin Pear Fellowship, benefiting from an established network of peers, shared learning, and ongoing projects.
“Before the Martin Pear Israel Fellowship, the gap in my understanding of Israel had grown into a black hole in my Jewish identity,” shares Jodi Cutler, arts and culture director of the Mandel JCC Palm Beaches in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida, and a member of the third cohort of the Martin Pear Israel Fellowship. “Through the fellowship, my cohort was first grounded in history through rich media, meaningful resources, and powerful speakers, and then we traveled to Israel where that knowledge came alive through a tapestry of diverse voices, deep connection, and unforgettable food. There, I finally met my Israel and felt that long-felt gap overflow with meaning, and the ripple effect of that experience continues to shape how I lead, program, and tell stories at my JCC with greater confidence, nuance, and connection.”
With more than 10,000 full-time professionals, over 20,000 part-time staff, and 17,000 seasonal staff, the JCC Movement is the largest employer on North America’s Jewish communal landscape, and JCC Association is devoted to developing the talent of the JCC workforce and continuing to attract the best and brightest to the movement’s work.
The Martin Pear Israel Fellowship, a key offering of the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel Center for Jewish Education, is housed within JCC Association’s Center for Jewish Peoplehood. The fellowship is open to full-time employees of any faith and from any area of a JCC. Applicants must be interested in building a career in the JCC Movement and able to commit to remaining at their current JCC for at least two years. Each year, the cohort includes professionals who seek to thrive, both individually and collectively, within the rigorous program. The Pear Fellowship is made possible by a generous, multi-year gift to JCC Association.
The fourth cohort of Martin Pear Israel Fellows comprises these individuals:
Dylan Abrams is the assistant director of Youth and Camp Services at the Valley of the Sun JCC in Scottsdale, Arizona. A longtime Jewish educator, he previously taught Hebrew and was a program coordinator in the religious school at Temple Chai. He also taught Hebrew and was a middle school advisor at Pardes Jewish Day School. He is an alumnus of Foundation for Jewish Camp’s first Elevate Israel cohort at Spertus Institute and is eager to expand his knowledge of modern Israel. A proud Zionist, Abrams is passionate about making Hebrew language accessible and fun for everyone. He earned a master’s degree from Gratz College with a focus on Jewish instructional education and Hebrew education instruction. Abrams enjoys a strong cup of coffee and spending time with his wife and dog.
Topaz Brown is director of marketing and PR at the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center in Bridgewater, New Jersey. She leads marketing, communications, and community engagement across programs, events, and initiatives, connecting thousands of community members each year. Topaz previously served as communications manager and development coordinator at the JCC and as events and special projects manager at the Jewish Federation of West-Central NJ. With more than a decade of nonprofit marketing and development experience, Brown specializes in strategic storytelling, audience engagement, and building systems that strengthen visibility and impact. She is passionate about creating meaningful experiences that foster connection across the JCC community. When she’s not working, Brown enjoys creative projects, pop culture, and spending time with her family, often finding inspiration for her professional work in everyday moments.
Deidra Clark is the aquatic director at the Mid-Island Y JCC in Plainview, New York, where she oversees all aquatic programing and daily operations for the pool. Clark also assists with several fundraising events at the Y, helping to fulfill the agency’s mission. Previously, she was a deputy commissioner of the Nassau County Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums. In this role, she hosted many national, collegiate, and international swimming and diving events. She is honored to be a Pear Fellow and looks forward to creating new relationships with other JCC professionals.
Shawnise Crawford is the senior aquatics director at the Rosenbloom Owings Mills JCC, part of the JCC of Greater Baltimore. In this role, she oversees the Aquatics Department, including the J Swim School and the swim programs of the early childhood education center and J Camps. She previously was the aquatics coordinator and assistant aquatics director. Prior to these roles, she taught first grade for four years and brings a strong educational perspective to aquatics programming. Crawford holds certifications as a Water Safety Instructor Trainer and Lifeguard Instructor and is a recipient of the American Red Cross-National Lifesaving Award. She is an alumna of the Bless Our Workforce Institute. When she’s not at the pool, you can find her with a good book or with family and friends.
Julia DiBaggio is the creative aging manager at the Mandel Jewish Community Center of Cleveland. As a professional connector of people, resources, and initiatives that foster meaningful associations and experiences, she blends creativity with purpose to develop programs that enhance the lives of older adults by inspiring joy, engagement, and well-being. Previously, she worked to connect Ohio farmers with Israeli agritech, earning recognition as a 2022 Difference Maker by the Cleveland Jewish News. In her free time, DiBaggio enjoys walking along the shores of Lake Erie with her husband and dog, and is an avid curler.
Andrea Golden is the senior director of Jewish Life and Learning at the Minnesota JCC. Previously, she was director of Camp Olami Day Camp on the Minneapolis campus, where she spent three years cultivating meaningful experiences for campers and staff. Golden brings extensive experience in Jewish communal work, gained from roles in synagogue youth programs, regional youth leadership, camping, and Hillel. Her passion for Israel began with a USY Israel pilgrimage in high school and has continued to grow through years of personal and professional connections. Golden lives in Minneapolis with her husband, two children, and their dog, Charlie. She is dedicated to creating inclusive, engaging, and enriching programs that foster Jewish learning, community, and lifelong connections.
Robyn Hochglaube is the associate director, Community Wellness and Mobilization at the Miles Nadal JCC in downtown Toronto, Ontario. Hochglaube brings an entrepreneurial background in private summer camp to her role, which aligns with her desire to be of service to others and her passion for community building. She holds an MBA from Western University’s Ivey Business School in London, Ontario and also is a certified executive coach. Often described as curious, adventurous, and energetic, Hochglaube always seeks opportunities to expand and share her knowledge and experiences. A true believer in the importance of being a world citizen, she has lived in Switzerland, Bolivia, Guyana, and, most recently, Spain. Hochglaube has three wonderful adult children.
Abby Katz is the senior director of Jewish life and engagement at the Arthur M. Glick Jewish Community Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, where she supports the integration of Jewish values, traditions, and culture across programs, with a focus on relationship-based engagement and accessible experiences. Katz brings a background in education and school leadership, having previously served as associate director of early childhood education at the JCC and in K–8 school leadership roles. Her work emphasizes thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and creating meaningful connections for individuals and families. Katz was named to the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis’ 36 Under 36 in 2024, and she serves as a lay leader at Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation. She and her husband, David, are raising their two sons in the same vibrant JCC community that has shaped their own lives, grateful to see it continue as a place of connection, growth, and belonging for the next generation.
Sabrina May is the director of the preschool at the JCC of the East Bay in Berkeley, California. Previously, she was a head teacher, assistant director, and the creative mind behind the JCCEB’s Jewish transitional kindergarten. May holds a dual bachelor’s degree in English education and French language and an associate degree in early childhood education. She is a candidate for a Master of Science degree in teacher education at the University of Oxford in England, where her research examines the lasting impact of October 7 on teachers in Jewish educational settings. In her free time, May enjoys curling up on the couch with her dog, Atwood; a cup of tea; and a good read.
Zachary Minuk is the director of development, partnerships, and communications at the Rady JCC in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Since joining the JCC in 2020, he has reinvented strategic fundraising by reimagining the annual Sports Dinner flagship gala, turning moments into memories while helping the event raise more than $400,000 annually and creating the largest gala of its kind in Western Canada. A natural storyteller, Minuk believes connection matters more than spreadsheets and that at its best, fundraising is not about dollars alone. It is about people saying, “I believe in what you do.” That belief guides how he leads, listens, and builds relationships. Minuk is passionate about strengthening Jewish life and deepening connections to Israel in ways that feel authentic and welcoming. In addition to his work, Minuk is a devoted husband and father of two daughters and will always choose a phone call over an email, because connection is the whole point.
Marissa Moskowitz is the grants director in the Development Department at the Kaplen JCC on the Palisades in Tenafly, New Jersey, where she oversees grant writing and manages institutional giving. Prior to joining the Kaplen JCC, she served as annual fund director at Teach Coalition and as development coordinator at the Shalom Hartman Institute. She holds a bachelor’s degree in art history from Columbia University and a master’s degree in corporate communication from Baruch College. Moskowitz lives in Tenafly, New Jersey, with her husband, Doron, and their three children, who love all the Kaplen JCC’s youth programs.
Hilary Most is the camp and Maccabi coordinator at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC in Houston, Texas. She previously served as the Games director for the 2023 Maccabi Games® in Houston, bringing extensive leadership experience and a deep commitment to Jewish communal life to the role. Most recently worked as a second-grade teacher at a local Jewish day school and also spent five years in Jewish communal programming. Her passion for Israel began in high school when she traveled on a JCC trip, the Israel Sports Spectacular, that uniquely combined her love of basketball with an educational visit to the Jewish homeland. Originally from Chicago, Most moved to Houston in 2003 and proudly calls Texas home. She is married to Roni, and together they have four children. She is committed to designing inclusive and meaningful programs that inspire Jewish learning, strengthen community bonds, and create lasting connections.
Mari Weisman is the JCamps staffing coordinator for JCC Greater Boston. Previously, she was the staff coordinator for Camp Grossman and now supports staffing across all JCCGB. Weisman’s work helps to ensure safe, smooth, and well-run daily operations of camp. She is the proud mother of three adult sons, who keep her laughing, grounded, and on her toes. She is deeply invested in health and wellness and is an avid lifter and fitness instructor. Weisman is also a strong believer in Jewish education and maintaining a meaningful connection to Israel, values that inform both her professional work and her personal life.
Wendy Weissman is the director of development at JCC Chicago, where she serves as a strategic partner to the chief development officer and provides leadership across the Development Department. In this role, Weissman leads the organization’s annual giving campaign and institutional giving strategy, encompassing corporate, foundation, and government support. She collaborates closely with the leadership, finance, and program teams to shape philanthropic priorities, develop grant and project budgets, and establish evaluation metrics. Weissman also oversees fundraising-related data management, reporting, and departmental operations, supervising a multi-member development team. Since joining JCC Chicago in 2019, she has played a key role in strengthening fundraising infrastructure and driving significant growth in grant revenue. She possesses experience in development and community relations, and, earlier in her career, she worked in the commercial real estate and financial sector. When she’s not working, Weissman soaks up Chicago summers, explores new places with her family, and enjoys recharging with a great book along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Gabriela (Gaby) Yeshua is the executive assistant to the president and CEO of the Oshman Family JCC in Palo Alto, California, and a trusted strategic partner to the agency’s senior leaders. With a background in HR roles across various industries, she brings a rare blend of operational rigor, emotional intelligence, and systems-level thinking to all aspects of her work. Yeshua is known for bringing clarity to complexity and turning big, often abstract ideas into thoughtful, executable plans. She is deeply people-centered, with a strong commitment to helping individuals and teams show up as their best selves. With a master’s degree in teaching, she approaches communication, design thinking, and leadership development with warmth, curiosity, and intention. She lives in the Bay Area with her partner and their dog, and spends her free time making ceramic art.
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About JCC Association of North America
JCC Association of North America leads the JCC Movement, the most expansive and inclusive platform for Jewish life in the U.S. and Canada, which comprises nearly 150 Jewish Community Centers and Jewish Community Camps (JCCs). By virtue of its size and scope—serving more than 1.5 million people weekly, in person, and online—and with guidance and support from JCC Association, the JCC Movement dynamically influences efforts to create Jewish community, vibrant Jewish life, and intentional and measurable Jewish outcomes in local communities and across the continent. Learn more at JCCA.org or on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram.
Please note that JCC Association of North America should not be referred to as JCCA or the JCC Association but initially as JCC Association of North America and as JCC Association in subsequent references.