NORTHEAST FLORIDA JEWISH LIFE
JCA LEADERS HONORED FOR 2021 By Beth Milograno Berry, Jewish Community Alliance
Each year, the Jewish Community Alliance recognizes members of our community who have gone above and beyond in service with the Howard Korman President’s Award and Special Service Award. The Howard Korman President’s Award recognizes a JCA board member who embodies the qualities of leadership, vision and courage during each program year. The recipient this year, Brent Trager, was recognized with the prestigious award for his long-time commitment and support of the JCA. Brent's leadership as the former Chair of the JCA Board of Trustees set the scrum decisionmaking methodology in motion at the JCA to ensure our community experiences continued growth. In addition, Brent showed unwavering dedication and support to the JCA community throughout the pandemic. We are beyond thankful to have Brent's knowledge and experience at the JCA and cannot think of a more deserving board member to receive the Howard Korman President’s Award this year. Each year, the Special Service Award is presented to a person or people who demonstrate outstanding service to the JCA. Natalia Fisher and Donna Jacoby received the award this year for their dedication and commitment to the JCA's Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten. After our beloved preschool director, Theresa Levy was involved in a car accident earlier this year, Natalia and Donna were devoted to JCA members and students as they seamlessly transitioned to fill Theresa's leadership role. Natalia succeeded Theresa as the JCA's Director for Michele Block Gan Yeladim, while Donna now serves as the Associate Director. Together, the ladies continue to elevate JCA school practices while collaborating with educators to promote the emotional and intellectual growth of the children in our care. We are so proud of Natalia and Donna, and remain thankful for their continuous commitment to the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool and Kindergarten. 16
The JCA Excellence Award is presented this year to a person who demonstrates years of service and excellence to our community. The 2021 recipient, Theresa Levy, was honored for her 29 years of dedication to the Michele Block Gan Yeladim Preschool & Kindergarten. Throughout her tenure, Theresa maintained the JCA National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) accreditation, nourished long-lasting partnerships with organizations in Jacksonville, and founded the Early Childhood Annual Professional Development Conference, which later became the Educator Support Network. After serving as the Director of Michele Block Gan Yeladim for many years, Theresa will start a new journey at the JCA this fall as the Early Childhood Education Alumni Coordinator. Join us in congratulating and thanking Theresa for her many years of providing enriching experiences for children within the JCA community.
Natalia Fisher
Donna Jacoby
Theresa Levy
Brent Trager
