An organization is only as good as its leadership. The FJMC values the hard work and dedication that it takes to run our clubs, regions, and international organizations. Over 25 years ago, Norm Kurtz and Dr. Burton Fischman, z’l, developed the Rabbi Joel S. Geffen Leadership Development Institute (LDI). Once each year, we bring together regional leaders and a handful of emerging leaders from each of our regions for a weekend of fun, educational and leadership development sessions, to strengthen the skills of the participants, to share great ideas, and to build friendships.

Due to COVID-19, LDI 5781 will be held virtually on January 30-31, 2021. But as always, the LDI weekend is focused on developing leadership skills, building interpersonal relationships, learning from our great leaders, and learning from each other. In addition, we have incorporated ritual, some fun events, and a purposeful focus on FJMC’s future.

Emerging Track leaders ( Eric Yegewel, Marc Cohen) and Regional Track leaders (Benny Sommerfeld, Elliot Brown) are finalizing their curriculum. Both tracks are doing their best to ensure an interactive and meaningful weekend for the participants. Guest speakers on Leadership have been lined up. Attendees will still have the opportunity to meet and interact with FJMC Leadership…and more! There’s even an optional Texas Hold ‘Em poker tournament!

If your region has invited you to LDI this year, prepare to Zoom to new heights in your leadership journey!

Of course, preparing a program like this takes a great committee, and we are blessed with a great team of advisors who are passionate about LDI and FJMC.

Dr. Joel Kurtz, Chair

Mark Givarz, Co-Chair