The Jewish Federation of Ottawa’s Board of Directors is a dynamic, evolving group of 14 dedicated community leaders. With new members joining each year, it can sometimes be challenging to keep track of who is currently serving and how this volunteer leadership shapes our collective future. This article aims to help introduce Federation’s newest Board members and highlight the values and experiences they bring to their roles.

At the Annual General Meeting in June, Federation welcomed a new Chair, Danya Vered, along with five new Board members: Jessica Greenberg, SuYun Geithner, Evan Green, Josh Kardish, and Elissa Lieff.

New members join the Board through a thoughtful and deliberate nomination process. Each year, the Nominating Committee identifies candidates based on the skills, experience, and perspectives that will best support and advise the Federation’s work. Board members serve for defined terms, ensuring a regular renewal of leadership while maintaining continuity and institutional knowledge. This careful approach helps build a Board that is diverse, capable, and deeply committed to strengthening Jewish life in Ottawa.

The role of the Board is central to the strength and direction of Jewish Ottawa. These leaders provide strategic oversight, steward community resources responsibly, and help guide the Federation in fulfilling its mission to support, connect, and uplift our community.

Jessica Greenberg, who previously sat on the Board, returned after a short break and now serves as Vice-Chair. She is the Vice President of Asset Management at Osgoode Properties, and brings expertise in organizational development, leadership, and change to the Board.

“Volunteering is rooted in my Jewish values and the traditions I grew up with,” she said. “I believe a thriving Jewish community is essential and that we are its caretakers, responsible for maintaining and strengthening it for today and future generations.”

Greenberg feels very strongly about setting an example for her children, who she also hopes will see that supporting a strong Jewish community benefits everyone.

Elissa Lieff is also driven by the Jewish value of l’dor v’dor, from generation to generation, having been inspired to give back to Jewish life from an early age. Having most recently worked at the Department of Justice as senior general counsel in the family, children, and youth purviews, she brings years of expertise in management and operations. She will also chair Federation’s Communications and Community Relations Committee. 

“We are a diverse, vibrant Jewish community, living in both rewarding and challenging times,” she said. “I look forward to working with the other Board members to build meaningful connections, support and strengthen our community, and ensure our commitment to Jewish life endures.”

This sentiment is shared by Evan Green, who was an early leader at Torah Day School and is passionate about Jewish education across generations. As Vice President of Monitoring and Evaluation, Results-based Management, and Disaster Risk Management at Baastel, Green’s insights will be helpful as Federation undertakes its Year 1 Business Plan.

“I joined Federation’s Board with clear goals in mind – to help strengthen the safety and security of Jewish Ottawa, to support and expand educational opportunities for our next generation, and to … contribute to Federation’s noble mission of uniting the diverse groups across our city in a fuller, more sustainable way.”

SuYun Geithner, also driven by Jewish values, feels the same commitment to the community. 

“My journey into Judaism began 26 years ago with a life-changing introduction to Torah values and ethics, a commitment that has only deepened over the years,” she said.

Having worked as a diplomat, Geithner has a passion for bridge-building and deep admiration for Judaism’s impact in national and international communities. 

“I hope my involvement in Federation and the Jewish Public Servants Network will afford more opportunities to strengthen and expand Jewish pride,” she said.

Josh Kardish, the Senior Vice President of eQ Homes, is a previous long-time volunteer at Camp B’Nai Brith of Ottawa. He has experience assisting its board with capital projects and camp maintenance. He hopes his knowledge in these areas will help the Federation Board.

“I am excited to work with a broad range of representatives from our community to help guide good decision-making,” he said.

This year’s Board represents a powerful blend of experience, vision, and steadfast dedication to Jewish Ottawa. Their collective passion for strengthening community life ensures that Federation remains a catalyst for connection, resilience, and growth.

With leaders committed to safeguarding, educating, and uplifting every corner of our community, the Federation Board is well-positioned to guide Jewish Ottawa through the challenges and opportunities ahead, ensuring a vibrant and enduring future for all.