December 1, 2023

By Solly Kane
President & CEO

Shalom Jewish Puget Sound!

I’m the new President & CEO of your Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle, writing as I wrap up my first week on the job. I’m excited to have started my new role serving this wonderful community and building on the accomplishments that your caring and generous support of Federation has made possible.

Since October 7, all of our lives have changed in significant ways as we have followed the news from Israel and watched with pain the rampant spread of antisemitism. At the same time, the last seven weeks have demonstrated the resiliency and strength of the global Jewish community, and of course our friends in Israel. This time of crisis has underscored the critical importance of Federation and our partner Jewish communal organizations as we serve our communities and show solidarity with Israel. 

I believe deeply in the importance of thriving Jewish communities and the important role that Federation plays as convener and leader. I look forward to carrying out these important responsibilities and working across our entire community to ensure a strong Jewish community in Greater Seattle, for today, tomorrow, and always.

In my first few days on the job, I’ve already seen firsthand the range of work our team is doing for our community. The Jewish Community Relations Council’s thoughtful and strong response to issues raised by the Seattle City Council last week, and work with community partners to combat antisemitism. A moving program of communal singing that was co-sponsored by Federation and Congregation Beth Shalom. A powerful speaker last night at Temple De Hirsch Sinai sharing the experience of living through the horrific attacks of October 7 in Israel. And, the preparations our development and marketing teams are making for what promises to be an engaging and uplifting Connections experience on February 4. (You can sign up to join us here!) Those are just a few examples of what your Federation has been up to, and I’m looking forward to working on the many Federation initiatives that are helping to strengthen our community and enhance Jewish life.

I am humbled to succeed Nancy B. Greer as President & CEO of the Federation. Nancy set an inspiring example of impactful communal leadership and has continued that in her strong support of this leadership transition, providing invaluable wisdom and guidance as I step into this role. Our community has been fortunate to benefit from her leadership and I look forward to building on her legacy.

I am looking forward to getting to know our community—attending gatherings, meeting with communal leaders, understanding the opportunities and challenges we face, and working in the spirit of collaboration and partnership to secure a bright future for Jewish life.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Federation. My colleagues and I wish you and your loved ones a Happy Hanukkah.

Shabbat Shalom,