From left to right: Community gather in the Epstein Family Community Hall for Shalom Austin’s 2024 Annual Meeting on May 21, 2024. Credit: Andrew Holmes

By Wendy Goodman 

Shalom Austin held their 2024 annual meeting on May 21 with more than 100 community members in attendance.  

During the meeting, Shalom Austin Board Chair Seth Halpern welcomed newly elected board members Heilla Lain and Marc Spier. Each of these individuals brings a wealth of experience and perspective to the board of directors’ slate.  

The meeting also provided the opportunity to bid farewell to board members whose terms ended. Lily Smullen and Scott Grossfeld were honored for their years of dedicated service and contributions. Phil Loewy was recognized as the incoming board chair of Shalom Austin. 

“I am honored to lead a tremendous board, composed of individuals who bring passion, expertise and a deep commitment to serving our community. Our board members represent diverse geographies, ages, genders, and congregations, ensuring that we are well-rounded and effective,” said Halpern. 

In addition to these transitions, Shalom Austin Treasurer Steve Meyers shared financial updates for the organization. “As we reflect on our organization’s growth and prosperity, Steve will provide detailed financial insights. I’ll say now that we are thriving,” said Halpern as he introduced Meyers. 

The Annual Meeting was also a time to recognize outstanding individuals and staff with special awards. The Community Service Award was presented to the Bring Them Home Now / Austin Headquarters group. Dorit Heldenberg Sherel accepted the award on behalf of the group and gave a moving speech about the remaining hostages held captive by Hamas in Gaza, and the importance of bringing them home now.  

The Staff Exemplar Award went to Shalom Austin Controller Mali Daduch-Torres who has played an instrumental role in managing Shalom Austin’s growing budget and diverse revenue streams. 

Adding to the evening’s significance was the celebration of Shalom Austin Jewish Foundation’s tenth anniversary by honoring its founding co-chairs Wade Monroe and Fran Hamermesh. Established in 2014, the Jewish Foundation has grown to more than $17 million in assets through donor advised funds, endowment gifts and agency funds. 

“I have the privilege of being the current chair of the Jewish Foundation Committee. We are all standing on the shoulders of an amazing group of leaders. These leaders had a special commitment to work on something that has a long-lasting impact for the community and that leaves a legacy for future generations,” said Marcia Silverberg, current Jewish Foundation Committee chair. 

The event also welcomed family legacy advisor Eric Weiner, PhD as the evening’s featured speaker. Weiner spoke about “Flourishing Families: What Makes Them So Effective.” 

Shalom Austin’s Annual Meeting not only reflected on the past year’s successes, but also set a positive tone for the future.