32 Years Later, Children Who Never Met Him Are Telling His Story
June 17, 2026
One Journey, Multiple Voices: Deanne Weiss Etsekson’s Perspective
June 17, 2026
I reluctantly became a Samis trustee. I served as a head of school for more than three decades, and when I retired, I was finally free from the burden of responsibility. So, when I was asked to become a trustee, I hesitatingly agreed. This trip and conversations with trustees have challenged me to reconsider my initial position.
The programs we learned about today, like those presented over the previous days, all deserve our support. They respond to real and pressing needs in Israel. They offer proven or promising solutions. They are headed by inspirational people who have come forward to serve their communities, our people, and the state.
So, how has this impacted me? Through supporting these programs, Samis has an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Yes, I am intimidated by the challenge of being a trustee and playing even a small role in allocating our limited resources among these deserving initiatives. But I am also honored by the opportunity to help so many people who will benefit from these programs. And maybe we should all give more thought to how we can make a difference in our communities, help our people, and our state.
– Rabbi Bernie Fox
