By Shana Creeger

On Thursday, October 26, Shalom Austin will host its 20th annual Women’s Philanthropy Mosaic Luncheon. Taking place at the JW Marriott in downtown Austin, women from all over the Greater Austin area will gather to celebrate the power of women in the Austin Jewish community. With the leadership of Mosaic Co-Chairs Vicki Osherow and Julie Waltzer, and Table Captain Co-Chairs Julie Franklin, Carolyn Haney and Marianne Rochelle, this year’s event promises to inspire Jewish journeys in meaningful and transformative ways while raising critical funds for the Shalom Austin Annual Campaign.

The Woman of Valor award is traditionally presented at the Mosaic Luncheon and in 2022, the award was named in memory of the late Marilyn Saikin Stahl (z”l ) a pillar in our community whose work professionally and as a lay leader left a lasting impact and touched countless lives. Receiving the first-ever Marilyn Stahl Woman of Valor Award is Stahl’s niece, Suzanne Newberg. Newberg spoke to The Jewish Outlook about her involvement in the Austin Jewish community.

1. How did you become involved with the Austin Jewish community and when?

Suzanne: I first became involved after college in the mid-80s when I joined Congregation Agudas Achim. I served on a couple of committees and began meeting more people as a young, Jewish professional. As a recently married couple, Stuart and I joined one of the first Federation young leadership cohorts; we both were inspired by others in the group, and quickly became more active and involved. But my biggest influence was my aunt, Marilyn Stahl who had been a dedicated community leader for many years. From a young age, I had known that she was a trailblazer. She was a role model to countless women for decades, inspiring them to become strong, thoughtful leaders. The Woman of Valor award is named in her honor and memory, and I hope to have made her proud.

2. What is the number one reason you continue to be involved with Shalom Austin?

Suzanne: My immediate and extended family has been in Austin a long time and we have all benefitted from those who planted the seeds and laid the strong foundation that is now Shalom Austin. Our eldest son and his wife plan to stay here and our youngest son has expressed interest in moving back at some point. I want everyone, from my kids to my parents, siblings, cousins, and friends to enjoy all that a vibrant, inclusive Jewish community like ours has to offer. Staying involved, inspiring other leaders, and spending my time, talent and treasure will help insure that. Additionally, and to simply put it, I get great pleasure helping identify a need and having the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life, whether it be in Austin, Israel or ultimately somewhere else in the world. I can’t imagine not being involved.

3. Over the years you have been involved with Shalom Austin’s Women’s Philanthropy, what is a memorable moment that really stands out?

Suzanne: Being involved with the first Mosaic luncheon, 23 years ago! It was a milestone moment and exciting time to be a Jewish woman in our community. The goal of the luncheon was to bring women together in a warm and welcoming space to learn how their support impacted the Federation. Those of us who helped bring the luncheon to fruition invited people to sit at tables, made the centerpieces, set the tables the day of the luncheon, anything, and everything imaginable. It was one of the first events in our new JCC space and everyone was energized and enthusiastic. The power of women was evident and has been unstoppable ever since.

4. Tell us some of the top benefits/reasons you see for women to be involved with philanthropy.

Suzanne: Whether you are new to Austin or have yet to take the opportunity to involve yourself, there has never been a better time to be engaged with Shalom Austin and its many avenues for involvement. If you are looking to find your “people”, there are women at every age and stage who are enthusiastically making a difference. Look at the Shalom Austin website and social media pages and see what piques your interest; there you will learn about the varied programs Shalom Austin has to offer including engagement opportunities that can provide connection to your peers. Check the community calendar and attend an event. There are volunteer opportunities, whether it be a “one-off” event or serving on a committee, community members will be eager to welcome you. You will have the potential to meet other like-minded people and will learn more about yourself and how you can make a difference. Shalom Austin is growing, and you can nurture our growth!

5. What is your hope/vision for the Austin Jewish community in the next 5-10 years?

Suzanne: It’s important to me that as a community we are inclusive and meet people where they are. We will listen and find opportunities to bring joy, good health, and sense of purpose to all. The more we engage within our Austin community at large, the more positive information we can impart which will, in turn, foster engagement. The Jewish community will continue to be viewed as an inspiring connector. ■