Champagne Brunch Welcomes Local Navy Commander

By Lauren Rickoff Director, Campaign and Women’s Philanthropy

The Women’s Philanthropy Champagne Brunch builds connections for women throughout the community. While the main goal of the event is to raise funds for the Jewish Federation & Foundation of Northeast Florida’s 2023 Annual Campaign, an intangible goal is to unite women in shared values and build relationships. It was important to this year’s co-chairs, Suzie Becker and Monique Miller, that the event be fun and impactful.

The featured speaker is Commander Alexa Jenkins, U.S. Navy, Commanding Officer USS Carney DDG-64, the first Jewish woman to command a Navy destroyer. Commander Jenkins will share how her Jewish values guide her leadership. “Admiring someone can mean many things. In the case of Commander Jenkins it is her captivating presence, thoughtful composure, sense of humor, humility, and respect for humanity that is inspired and inspiring. Learning from her experiences helps to shape perspective on what a modern Jewish woman stands for,” said Becker. place on January 22, 2023, at the beautiful Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. In addition to the featured speaker, there will be a fabulous raffle - prizes include fine jewelry, beautiful art, beauty experiences, and so much more.

Each year, women participate in a special mitzvah project. This year, attendees are asked to bring cans of soup to be donated to the Max Block Food Pantry at the LJD Jewish Family & Community Services.

Historically, over 100 women attend this annual event in a show of support for our Jewish community. Miller said, “The Jewish Federation & Foundation makes a huge impact in our community. As an educator, I especially appreciate their support of our local community organizations and educational institutions on all levels. I’m grateful to serve alongside this amazing group of warm and welcoming women who have worked so hard to make this important event possible.”

Contact Lauren Rickoff at laurenr@ jewishjacksonville.org, or visit events.idonate.com/ champagnebrunch2023 for details.