The Berman Center specializes in applied learning through program evaluations that makes us better at what we do. When I have a program that needs evaluation, I click on "J" for JESNA in my contact list. Our evaluation partnerships have worked well and provided actionable recommendations."
Executive Director, Synagogues: Transformation and Renewal (STAR)
The JCRC had an exceptionally positive experience with the Berman Center. Its staff was very professional and provided the expert insight and wisdom that we needed. As the result of our work with JESNA's Berman Center, the JCRC will be more effective in its current programs, as well as the programs that it innovates and implements in the future. In addition, we will be able to demonstrate to our stakeholders - including funders - that we are constantly learning, and that the organization effectively achieves the goals we share. We would highly recommend the Berman Center to any Jewish nonprofit." Associate Director, Jewish Community Relations Council
Nothing in my experience compares to the generosity and clarity of purpose of the Grinspoon-Steinhardt Award. While virtually everyone agrees that our children's Jewish education is critical to the future of Am Yisrael...few people truly value the contribution, commitment and professional advancement of Jewish educators. Your award will make it possible for me to forge new relationships with other professionals, to learn new ways of teaching from them, and to continue my own Jewish education....”
Winner 2009 Grinsppoon-Steinhardt award
Thank you so much for the Award I have received. ...By recognizing excellence in Torah education, you demonstrate to all the value of the seeds educators plant in their students: seeds of compassion, respect, critical thinking skills, and love for Torah and mitzvot. ...Being and early childhood teacher, we always say, "A good beginning has no end."
Winner 2009 Grinsppoon-Steinhardt award
I have been an educator for over 20 years now and have always felt that it is so important to continually grow as a teacher. To be recognized for my efforts as an educator is so meaningful for me, and I thank you for your generosity and for your recognition of the value of the work done by Jewish educators. I am truly humbled to be counted among the very distinguished Grinspoon-Steinhardt awardees and am so appreciative of the opportunity you are providing for continued growth in the work that I love so much."
Winner 2009 Grinsppoon-Steinhardt award
Thanks to JESNA and the Grinspoon-Steinhardt awards program we now have a national award of excellence to local Jewish educators. This is a gift of just the right kind of leverage to seed the change of an entire community's perspective on the power of Jewish education in the lives of families and children. As a former central agency director, I had the privilege of bringing these awards to our community and see it become the catalyst for seemingly magical transformation. Such a simple way for a community to model Jewish values on so many levels! "
Mark Horowitz, Director of Early Childhood Education, JCC Association
About JESNA's Lippman Kanfer Institute...
Thank you so much for organizing and executing the event on Monday. It was meaningful to see that "the establishment" (or at least parts of it!) is in fact listening, and listening carefully, and supporting.... What was once considered fringe and "the competition" is becoming recognized as valuable and critical to our collective future. Instead of resisting it, we need to figure out how to embrace it."
Lisa Colton, Darim Online
Susan S. Scribner, Senior Planning & Allocations Associate, Jewish Federation of St. Louis
Thank you so much for organizing and executing the event on Monday. It was meaningful to see that "the establishment" (or at least parts of it!) is in fact listening, and listening carefully, and supporting.... What was once considered fringe and "the competition" is becoming recognized as valuable and critical to our collective future. Instead of resisting it, we need to figure out how to embrace it."
Lisa Colton, Darim Online
Jonathan Woocher and the Lippman Kanfer Institute provided invaluable assistance in helping the Jewish Federation of St. Louis move forward with the work of its Commission on Jewish Identity & Engagement. His vast body of knowledge about initiatives throughout the country, his willingness to brainstorm ideas with staff and lay leaders, and his skilled meeting facilitation led the Commission to develop innovative strategies to engage our target populations and make St. Louis a more vibrant Jewish community. "
Susan S. Scribner, Senior Planning & Allocations Associate, Jewish Federation of St. Louis