FEATURED MEMBER

WHY WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY?

Get to know our members as they share their personality, passion and purpose for ensuring a thriving Jewish future. Each month, Women’s Philanthropy highlights a member making a difference in our local and global Jewish community.

OCTOBER 2021 FEATURED MEMBER

Marcia Silverberg

I view Shalom Austin as the hub of Jewish life in Austin and enjoy the fact that it embraces Jews of all affiliations (or none) as well as welcomes non-Jewish members to the J.

Marcia Silverberg

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Marcia Silverberg (right) interviewed by Marianne Rochelle (left)

Where are you originally from and how did you integrate yourself into Jewish life in Austin?

I’m originally from Buffalo NY and spent many happy years at the Buffalo JCC and as BBG chapter president. We moved from Syracuse NY to Austin in 1995 so my husband Barry could become Executive Director of the Jewish Federation of Austin (now Shalom Austin). We were graciously welcomed, and it was relatively easy to make friends, including at Congregation Agudas Achim and the Jewish Day School (now Austin Jewish Academy).

How did you get involved in Women’s Philanthropy?

It’s a natural extension of my Jewish identity. I can’t imagine NOT giving to Shalom Austin because of the importance of supporting our community. I’ve been a Pomegranate since my Syracuse days and recently stepped up to Lion of Judah.

Why do you support Shalom Austin?

I view Shalom Austin as the hub of Jewish life in Austin and enjoy the fact that it embraces Jews of all affiliations (or none) as well as welcomes non-Jewish members to the J. I’m very pleased to be a volunteer leader helping grow the Shalom Austin Jewish Foundation; we’re enabling fellow fundholders to be philanthropists via Donor Advised Funds or endowments. I also love to work out at the J and support the growth of Jewish Family Service.

What’s one word that describes our Jewish community?

Welcoming

What are a few Jewish values you hope to pass on to the next generation, specifically your kids and grandkids?

Tikkun olam, tzedakah, and lifelong learning

What’s your favorite Jewish memory?

It’s two, really: bursting with pride when our daughter and son were b’nai mitzvot.

What’s your perfect day?

A long, fast walk with a friend, coffee while I read several newspapers, some work (I’m a self-employed executive coach and consultant), some volunteering, dinner with my husband, and a good book.

Any book, podcast, or tv recommendations?

Books: The Weight of Ink, Cutting for Stone, Dear Edward. TV: Ted Lasso, Stephen Colbert