Montana Tucker is an award-winning actress, singer, dancer, and philanthropist who uses her platform of nearly 14 million followers—largely Gen Z—to combat antisemitism and promote education, inclusion, and unity. Beginning her career at age nine, she has appeared in acclaimed TV shows, films, and major soundtracks, while becoming a powerful advocate for Jewish and humanitarian causes.

She gained international recognition for her viral docu-series How To: Never Forget, documenting her journey to Poland and Auschwitz to honor her family’s Holocaust history. A Webby Award nominee, Tucker has since appeared on Good Morning America, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and at major global events. Today, she remains one of the most influential Jewish voices of her generation.

Idan Raichel – producer, keyboardist, lyricist, composer and performer.  During a career spanning a mere 17 years, Idan has become not only one of the most successful artists in Israel. Over the years, Idan has become an ambassador representing a world of hope in which artistic collaboration breaks down barriers between people of different backgrounds and beliefs.

Omer Shem Tov is a survivor of the October 7 Nova Music Festival massacre and a former hostage held captive by Hamas in Gaza for 505 days. Abducted during the attack, he endured prolonged captivity under brutal conditions-fighting not only to survive, but to remain human. In captivity, Omer chose faith over fear. Through a deep connection to God, inner discipline, and gratitude, he embraced positivity as an act of resistance-strengths that continue to guide his life. Today, Omer speaks with honesty and purpose, blending testimony with reflections on resilience, responsibility, and mindset. His message is not only about survival, but about how to live-choosing light, meaning, and life again and again.

Loay Alshareef is a world-class speaker and one of the foremost Arab Muslim activists, pro-Jewish and pro-peace with Israel. He is an Arab Muslim peace advocate, historian, and social media influencer whose mission is to bridge divides between Muslims and Jews and to champion peace in the Middle East. Born and raised in Saudi Arabia to a Saudi Egyptian family that once held many radical views, Loay experienced a turning point in 2010 after living with a Jewish family in France. That experience reshaped his worldview and inspired his lifelong commitment to peace. He began his media career in Saudi Arabia, working across fields such as language education, history, and tourism, before dedicating himself fully to peace advocacy and promoting the Abraham Accords. As a leading voice in interfaith dialogue and reconciliation, he has earned international recognition for his pro-Jewish stance, support for Israel’s legitimacy, and commitment to the Abraham Accords. He is currently based in United Arab Emirates. With an academic background that combines software engineering (MA, Penn State) and expertise in ancient languages and scripts, Loay offers a rare perspective that unites technology, history, and cultural understanding. He reads Egyptian hieroglyphs and ancient Arabian scripts, and leverages this deep historical knowledge to foster meaningful narratives of coexistence. Loay’s influence extends to over 800,000 followers across Instagram and X, where his multilingual content reaches a global audience. His ability to communicate complex issues in an accessible way has positioned him as one of the most compelling voices for peacebuilding, cultural diplomacy, and interreligious understanding. He frequently appears in international media, conferences, and universities across the US, Europe, and the Middle East. Above all, Loay Alshareef stands as a pioneering Arab voice of reconciliation—a bridge-builder dedicated to rewriting the story of Muslim-Jewish relations for a more peaceful future.

Noa Cochva is an advocate for the State of Israel and a keynote speaker. Born and raised in Bnei Atarot near Tel Aviv, she comes from a family deeply rooted in service to Israel. Her father served in the Israeli Air Force for 30 years, and her mother dedicated 16 years as a military psychologist—instilling in Noa values of strength, discipline, and unwavering commitment to her country and its people.

Early in life, Noa faced a serious hematological disease, an experience that strengthened her resilience and determination. Crowned Miss Israel in 2021, she later chose to step away from the spotlight to serve during the 2023 conflict, spending five months at the Gaza border and prioritizing saving lives above all else, regardless of background.

Luai Ahmed is a 32-year old Yemeni journalist and content creator. He was born and raised in the capital of Sanaa, and moved to Sweden when he was 20 years old in 2014 where he has been living since. He worked as a columnist and journalist at the local Swedish newspaper Bulletin where he focused on integration, migration, and radical Islam. In 2024, and after he started making content in English, he worked as a host for Builders of the Middle East, an online content hub that fosters interfaith kinship, and fights extremism, radicalization, fake news, antisemitism, and racism on the internet.

Ambassador Haney has had a distinguished career as an international businessman with many years of experience serving in senior-level marketing, financial services and manufacturing positions across Latin America. From 2007 to 2015, he was a Principal and Director of Business Development and Client Service (Europe, Middle East and Africa) at Pzena Investment Management in New York City. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President of Ethnic Consumer Products at International Discount Telecommunications (IDT) in Newark, New Jersey from 2006 to 2007; Director of Strategic Planning at Depository Trust and Clearing Corporation in New York City from 2002 to 2006; Senior Associate at Israel Seed Partners in Jerusalem from 1999 to 2001; and Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Planning at Citibank in Mexico City and Monterrey, Mexico from 1997 to 1999. He held various positions with PepsiCo Restaurants International from 1993 to 1997, including Marketing Director in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Senior Marketing Manager for Mexico and Central America in Mexico City, Mexico and Marketing Manager in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He was also Assistant Brand Manager at Procter and Gamble in San Juan, Puerto Rico and served as Appointed Member of the City of Englewood Planning Board and Board of Adjustment in Englewood, New Jersey. Ambassador Haney earned a B.S. in international economics and a M.S. with distinction in international business and diplomacy from Georgetown University School of Foreign Service, Washington, D.C., 1986-1991. He was the recipient of the Brunswick-Hanigan Scholarship, the Dean’s Award for Academic Excellence and Distinction in Oral Examination at Georgetown University and is a Member of the National Jesuit Honor Society. He speaks Spanish, Portuguese, Hebrew and conversational French. He has served on a number of non-profit and community boards such as the Foundation of Jewish Culture (co-Chair, Secretary and Treasurer); Ayecha, a resource organization for Jews of Color and as an appointed member of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council. Ambassador Haney was born in Nashville, Tennessee and grew up outside of Chicago, in Naperville, Illinois.

Dr. Qanta Ahmed is a British-American physician, author, and national security expert specializing in counterterrorism, political Islam, and Middle Eastern geopolitics. A lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations, she has testified before the U.S. House Homeland Security Committee, briefed international lawmakers, and written extensively for The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, and The Jerusalem Post, bringing a rare medical and ideological lens to global security issues.

Following the October 7 Hamas atrocities, Dr. Ahmed traveled to the Gaza envelope as an eyewitness, delivering firsthand testimony to international media and parliaments, including the UK House of Lords. A triple board-certified physician and the author of the bestselling memoir In the Land of Invisible Women, she remains a leading global voice on antisemitism, extremism, and the defense of democratic values.

Bret L. Stephens joined The New York Times as an Op-Ed columnist in April 2017. His column appears Thursday and Saturday.

Mr. Stephens came to The Times after a long career with The Wall Street Journal, where he was most recently deputy editorial page editor and, for 11 years, a foreign affairs columnist. Before that, he was editor in chief of The Jerusalem Post. At The Post he oversaw the paper’s news, editorial and digital operations and its international editions, and also wrote a weekly column. He has reported from around the world and interviewed scores of world leaders.

Mr. Stephens is the author of “America in Retreat: The New Isolationism and the Coming Global Disorder,” released in November 2014. He is the recipient of numerous awards and distinctions, including two honorary doctorates and the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for commentary. He was raised in Mexico City and holds a B.A. from the University of Chicago and an MSc. from the London School of Economics. He and his wife, Corinna da Fonseca-Wollheim, a music critic for The Times, live with their three children in New York and Hamburg, Germany.

Dumisani Washington is the Founder and CEO of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI). He is also the former Diversity Outreach Coordinator for the over 10-million-member Christians United for Israel (CUFI), having served at CUFI nearly seven years.  Dumisani is the bishop of the Congregation of Zion in Stockton, California and Charlotte, North Carolina (spring 2022). He is a professional musician—graduate of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music—and author whose latest book is the second edition of Zionism & the Black Church: Why Standing with Israel Will be a Defining Issue for Christians of Color in the 21st Century, © 2021 by Umndeni Press.

Joshua Washington is the Director of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel (IBSI). He is a professional composer and world touring recording artist who programs both education and musical events for IBSI. Joshua lectures on topics such as the historic Black and Jewish relationship, the Africa-Israel alliance, and dispelling the myths about them. His full length album, ‘Zion’ has gotten national acclaim as he continues to tour and promote it all over the world including in Israel. Joshua is a voting member of the Recording Academy and sits on the board as president of a non-profit music education organization called Stockton Soul.

Joshua has two beautiful sons, Ezra and Judah.

Matthew Nouriel serves as the Director of Community Engagement at JIMENA (Jews Indigenous to the Middle East and North Africa) and is based in Los Angeles, California. An activist and content creator of Iranian Jewish heritage, Matthew is dedicated to advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, promoting equality within the Iranian and Jewish communities, combating antisemitism, and supporting the Women Life Freedom movement for a free Iran. Matthew actively works to expose the hypocrisy within the anti-Israel movement and to counter claims of pinkwashing, especially following the events of October 7. He highlights the signicance of fostering connections between Iranian and Jewish communities and promoting Iranian-Jewish solidarity. Through his social media presence, Matthew engages with those who resonate with his perspectives and experiences. Matthew frequently participates in panel discussions and speaking engagements across North America. He has held leadership roles with organizations such as JDC Entwine, JQ International, and the Tel Aviv Institute. Matthew’s written contributions have appeared in publications like JNS, The Forward, and Hey Alma, and he has been featured in media outlets such as the Jewish Journal, Tehran Magazine, the Algemeiner, and the Jerusalem Post.

Artist, Activist, Teacher, Actor, and Creative Film Director

Miriam Mattova is an international model, former Miss Slovakia 2012, and political scientist whose work confronts antisemitism at the intersection of visibility, policy, and lived experience. Holding a PhD in Political Science, and as the granddaughter of concentration camp survivors, her advocacy is driven by a deeply personal commitment to ensuring history is not allowed to repeat itself. With a career spanning covers and features in Vogue, Marie Claire, Cosmopolitan Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE, L’Officiel, and other leading fashion publications, Miriam has transformed public visibility into a platform for accountability. A proud Zionist, she has been widely featured by The Jerusalem Post, Fox News, National Post, New York Post, and other international outlets for her outspoken work against rising antisemitism. After coming forward about an antisemitic incident in Toronto, Miriam faced an escalation of targeted harassment and explicit death threats online, reinforcing her focus on prevention, not censorship. She advances concrete policy solutions to address online hate, arguing that when social media platforms fail to act, governments must step in to enforce responsibility before digital incitement escalates into real-world violence. Speaking from a Canadian perspective often missing in global conversations, Miriam challenges audiences to confront a critical reality: online hate is not abstract, silence has consequences, and accountability must come before tragedy.

City of Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley was elected in November 2024. Prior to taking office as mayor, she served as senior vice president of the Touro University system and served in the United States House of Representatives from 1999 to 2013. Among her proudest accomplishments during her time in Congress was building the new Veterans Administration medical complex in Southern Nevada. Mayor Berkley began her career in public service in 1983 as an assemblywoman in the Nevada State Legislature. She worked to strengthen consumer protection laws, cracked down on drunk driving, created the Senior Law Project, and wrote the Lemon Law, which protects new car owners from defective vehicles. Mayor Berkley was appointed and twice elected to the Nevada State Board of Regents, serving from 1990 to 1998. Prior to serving in Congress, Mayor Berkley was a practicing attorney. She worked for the Nevada State Commerce Department, was in-house counsel for Southwest Gas Corporation and was the vice president of government and legal affairs for the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas. Mayor Berkley is married to Dr. Larry Lehrner and is the proud mother of two sons, two stepchildren and five grandchildren. Raised in Las Vegas, Mayor Berkley attended John C. Fremont Junior High School and Valley High School. She was the first person in her family to go to college. She graduated from UNLV in 1973 where she was student body president.

Born in Britain in 1967, Neil Lazarus is a leading educator and commentator specializing in Middle East politics, public diplomacy, and communication training. After earning a BA in Politics and Russian Studies from the University of Wales, he emigrated to Israel in 1988 and completed a Master’s in Political Science at Hebrew University in 1991. Lazarus has become one of Israel’s most influential informal educators, known for his engaging and thought-provoking presentations. He has addressed diverse groups, including Christian, Muslim, and Jewish communities, as well as diplomats, journalists, and community leaders.

Beni Sabti is an Iran expert at the INSS. Sabti was born in Iran in 1972 and raised primarily under the Islamic Revolution regime. After escaping Iran to Israel in 1987, he served in the IDF, primarily as a researcher, mostly in projects relating to Iranian culture and influence on cognition, decision making, and media. One of the flagship projects he led was the establishment of the IDF Spokesperson’s platforms in Persian, designed to address the Iranian people directly. Sabti holds an M.A in political science and public communications from Bar Ilan University, and was a research fellow at JISS in Jerusalem. Sabti gives lectures about many issues related to Iran and is a commentator on Iran for media outlets in Israel and abroad. He was also one of the cultural advisors to the series “Tehran,” broadcast on Apple TV and Israel’s Channel 11.  

Sami Steigmann is a Holocaust Survivor who lives to tell his story. Through speaking at schools, organizations, media outlets, and more, he is passionate about his role of sharing a fresh perspective on hope, life, and faith.

Former UFC Competitor, MMA Champion & StandStrong Ambassador

Executive Director, StandStrong

Jeremy Jacobs is a graduate of Kansas State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Family Services and Human Studies. For more than 20 years, he has consulted with churches and Christian organizations on organizational and leadership development initiatives and strategic fundraising efforts. In addition, he spent seven years training young adults to raise financial support for faith-based causes, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed for sustainable Christian work. He is a certified Ambassador for Israel through the Jerusalem-based Friends of Zion and, in 2021, co-founded Stories of Antisemitism with his wife, Racquel. Stories of Antisemitism builds bridges between Christian and Jewish communities, advocates for Jewish safety through community and campus engagement, and educates and mobilizes non-Jewish audiences by humanizing the impact of antisemitism through storytelling. He lives in Colorado with his wife, Racquel, and their five children.

Roz Rothstein is a co-founder and CEO of StandWithUs. The daughter of Holocaust survivors, Rothstein and her husband Jerry, along with community leader Esther Renzer, sought to strengthen Israel’s image by empowering Israel’s supporters worldwide with innovative educational materials, conferences, fellowships, campaigns, missions to Israel, social media, educational videos, and programs. Since the inception of StandWithUs, the Forward has twice named Rothstein one of the 50 most influential Jews in America, and the Jerusalem Post has twice named her one of the 50 most influential Jews in the world.

Michael Dickson is Executive Director of StandWithUs Israel. Michael leads a dynamic team at StandWithUs in Jerusalem which includes pioneering innovative Israel educational initiatives, running campaigns to counter discriminatory BDS boycotts of Israel, oversight of digital operations and hosting delegations of politicians, diplomats, academics and other people of influence in Israel. Born in the UK, Michael made Aliyah to Israel in 2006 from London as the Second Lebanon War ended, together with his wife and two young children – they now have five children and live in central Israel. Michael regularly addresses audiences and broadcasts on issues pertaining to Israel and public diplomacy. He is an accomplished writer, with many published articles, TV appearances and and is the author of the bestselling book: ISRESILIENCE — What Israelis Can Teach the World. Under Michael’s leadership, StandWithUs’s operation in Israel has grown exponentially, empowering people in Israel and internationally to be active advocates for Israel and countering efforts to impose commercial, academic and cultural boycotts on Israel. Michael oversaw the construction of the new StandWithUs Educational Center in Jerusalem, opposite the King David Hotel. The site hosts tens of thousands of students and tourists each year, participating in educational programs. Michael is a Senior Fellow at the Center for International Communication (CIC) of Bar Ilan University, is an Honorary member of Alpha Epsilon Pi, and was appointed to the Spectrum Forum of leading Executive Directors in Israel under the age of 40. He was named by JTA as the 14th most influential Jew on Twitter and also one of the “30 Israelis Making a Difference” by Channel 10 TV at a ceremony at the President of Israel’s Residence. Michael was cited in the Top 30 of “The Aliyah 100 List” of British immigrants to Israel, as one of the “flag bearers who shaped the state of Israel and made a significant contribution”. In 2019, he won the prestigious “Bonei Zion” (“Builders of Zion”) Prize. Michael continues to be an energetic, influential and active voice for Israel to the world.

Charlotte Korchak is the founder and Senior Educator of the Jerusalem Education Institute, a non-profit organization working to transform education on Israel and the Middle East. As an accomplished educator and speaker specializing in Israeli history, effective communication, and antisemitism, Charlotte captivates audiences with her passionate speaking style and ability to break down the most challenging concepts making them accessible to a wide range of audiences. Growing up in both the United States and in Israel during the Second Intifada, Charlotte brings a unique perspective as well as first hand experience of the conflict. Additionally, she earned her BA in Middle Eastern History from the University of Southern California where she also participated in the StandWithUs Emerson Fellowship. Charlotte began working at StandWithUs in 2010 where she eventually engaged over 50,000 students annually both online and on five different continents, ending her time there as the International Senior Educator. Often described as a walking encyclopedia, Charlotte’s 15 years of expertise leaves audiences feeling educated, empowered, and more capable of engaging with their peers on these difficult issues. She has quickly become one of the foremost public speakers in her field.

Noah Shufutinsky is a Jewish educator, lecturer, and musician. As a graduate of The George Washington University where he earned his BA in Judaic Studies, he was heavily involved in Jewish life and Zionist activism. Noah is also known by his stage name, Westside Gravy. As an artist he fuses his passion for Jewish culture and history with his lived experience of growing up Black and Jewish across the US to write and produce hip hop. As an educator with StandWithUs he speaks about topics regarding Israeli and Jewish history, connection to the homeland, and how antisemitism affects Jewish people around the world.

In a world marked by adversity and antisemitism, art can be a powerful symbol of identity and security. Alejandro Benzaquen, an artist renowned for his work in the audiovisual and artistic fields and his dedication to defending Jewish rights through Hasbara, exemplifies this power in his latest piece. Since starting on social media in 2015, he has amassed over 600 million views across platforms, using his voice to express pride in his Jewish and Latino identity and reflect deeply on the Jewish experience. His new artwork, “Ki Eid Od Medina” (Because There Is No Other Nation), crafted from transparent blue acrylic and measuring 26 cm x 19 cm x 6.5 cm, symbolizes the refuge Israel provides. Featuring a box inscribed with “In case of emergency, break the glass,” it contains broken glass shaped like Israel and a replica Israeli passport, marked “Darkon” (passport in Hebrew). Inscriptions such as “Safe Place, Hamedina Sheli” and “Am Yisrael Hai” reinforce the unbreakable connection to Israel as a homeland for Jews. Today, hundreds of families worldwide have this artwork in their homes as a constant reminder of their bond with Israel. The piece holds a unique presence that immediately captures attention. Importantly, a portion of the proceeds from each sale is directed towards helping victims of the October 7 attacks, their families, and the Israeli army. Each family and individual who owns a piece makes a significant contribution to this cause. Throughout history, the Jewish people have faced oppression, but Israel has become a symbol of security and unity. This artwork celebrates that resilience and the bond between the diaspora and Israel, underscoring the concept of ALIA-the return to one’s ancestral home —reaffirming Israel’s role as a safe haven. By displaying this piece, we honor the security and hope Israel represents for all Jews. Alejandro Benzaquen’s commitment extends beyond his artwork. Recently, he was honored to be invited to speak at the Voices for Truth conference in New York, reflecting his influential role in advocating for Jewish identity and security. His work and public engagement demonstrate the profound impact one individual can make in fostering unity and support during challenging times.

Yael Eini is a diplomat currently serving as the Consul for Public Diplomacy and Culture at the Israeli Consulate in Los Angeles, which is in charge of the Pacific Southwest region. Yael holds a B.A. in Social Sciences from Bar-Ilan University in Israel and has an extensive background in security, having served as a Cybersecurity and Intelligence Officer in the Israeli Air Force for over five years. Additionally, she has worked as a Cybersecurity Consultant for multiple high-tech companies, leveraging her expertise to enhance organizational resilience. Originally from Yokne’am Illit in Northern Israel, Yael is married to Barak Eini. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys hiking with her Husky, Foxy.

Ofek Moscovich is an Israeli social entrepreneur and former Jewish Agency Shaliach, who served Jewish communities across the United States, strengthening their connection to Israel through education, culture, and people-to-people engagement. He is a co-founder of ESEK, an ecommerce platform based in Israel, dedicated to showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of Israel by connecting people around the world with unique products made by Israeli entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented communities. To mark the two-year commemoration of October 7th, ESEK created the NOVA Collection, featuring artworks by survivors of the Nova music festival. During his presentation, Ofek will share videos from his personal interviews with the survivors—powerful testimonies of strength and resilience—alongside their art, highlighting art as a source of healing and demonstrating how ESEK provides direct financial support to the artists.  

After a horrific attack in NYC, Shoshana Treichel was determined to be one of the world’s strongest women. She went on to become the face of female bodybuilding, winning numerous titles. Not only did she win the Border States, Tri State, California Bodybuilding champion, Ms. Universe, (and a plethora of others), but she also won Ms. Israel! Shoshana also completed a 5-year yoga therapy training in India, and now owns a successful Yoga and Salt Therapy center in Mobile, Alabama. Shoshana considers herself an Oct. 8 Jew. She and her husband Jake, went almost immediately to Israel after Oct. 7 and served in Sar-El. Sar-El is an organization that has been the lifeblood of support for Israel for countless years, bringing thousands of volunteers from across the world to assist the IDF. Shoshana has since become the Ambassador Coordinator for the United States for Sar-El and has been to serve several times since. Shoshana is a strong advocate for the state of Israel and a speaker. She comes from a family deeply rooted in service to Israel. Her father was diplomat at the American Embassy in Tel Aviv, and made Aliya after his service with her beloved mother, Millie. Shoshana’s sister is a member of a Kibbutz in the Golan Heights and has also been a keynote speaker for the Golan Heights sovereignty. Her parents instilled in all 4 of their children- values of an unwavering commitment to their Judaism, their Zionism and love for the State of Israel. Shoshana shares the message that we are all in this together. The IDF is part of Israeli society, and we all carry these burdens as on community. This is what makes Am Yisrael so very special!

Dr. Miri Bar-Halpern is a clinical psychologist, trauma and resilience expert, and Lecturer in Psychology at Harvard Medical School. She directs Trauma Training and Services at Parents for Peace and has over 20 years’ experience across clinical, academic, policy, and tech fields. Her work focuses on healing, resilience, and recovery in the context of extremism, violence, and chronic stress. A recognized authority on “traumatic invalidation,” she explores the denial of trauma in both research and practice, with a special focus on Jewish communities after October 7, 2023. She co-hosts the podcast Our Stories Matter: We Will Dance Again and advises schools, organizations, and policymakers on trauma-informed strategies.

Dr. Yael Halaas is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), specializing in facelifts, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and hair loss treatment for men and women. She served as Chairperson of the Emerging Trends Committee for the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and is a principal investigator in multiple FDA and IRB studies. A published author in peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Halaas is also a global Key Opinion Leader in aesthetic technologies, a frequent international speaker, and a trusted media expert in facial aesthetics. She is the founder and president of the American Jewish Medical Association (AJMA).

Dr. Zuhdi Jasser is a physician specializing in internal medicine and nuclear cardiology, a U.S. Navy veteran, and a leading American Muslim voice for religious freedom and reform. As founder and president of the American Islamic Forum for Democracy (AIFD), he advocates for the separation of mosque and state and directly challenges Islamist ideologies that foster intolerance, including antisemitism. A strong proponent of interfaith collaboration, Dr. Jasser is committed to building bridges between communities and defending universal human rights. As a physician, his activism is dedicated to addressing not only the symptoms of hate like antisemitism but its root causes. He previously served on the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom and continues to speak out against all forms of hate.

Dr. Mihir Meghani, an Emergency Physician in Fremont, CA, and relative of Mahatma Gandhi, has dedicated his life to service through global disaster relief and humanitarian work. He co-founded the Hindu American Foundation (HAF), which advances understanding of Hindus and Hinduism while advocating for human rights, dignity, and pluralism. A longtime bridge builder between Hindu and Jewish communities, he co-founded Democracies Against Terror after 9/11 to address shared challenges faced by India, Israel, and the U.S. He serves on the Silicon Valley Interreligious Council board and actively combats antisemitism and Hinduphobia.

Dr. Wald is Clinical Professor of Family Medicine, Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Faculty; Harvard Medical School Pediatrics Leadership, and Commissioner; Lancet Commission on Medicine, Nazism, and the Holocaust. She is a Gold Humanism Foundation Harvard Macy Scholar, Dean’s Teaching Awards recipient, Fulbright Specialist Scholar (medical education) for Ben Gurion University of Health Sciences, Israel, and Scholar-in Residence; Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism, Oxford University, UK. She has presented at over 120 health professions schools and healthcare organizations world-wide on reflective writing-enhanced reflection, professional identity formation, resilience/flourishing, countering antisemitism in medicine, and medicine during the Holocaust, a research interest.

Edward C. Halperin MD MA is the Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer of New York Medical College; Professor of Radiation Oncology, Pediatrics, and History; The Miriam Popack Chair in Biomedical Ethics after the Holocaust; Director of the Hirth and Samowitz Center for Medical Humanities and Holocaust Studies; and Provost for Biomedical Affairs of Touro University. Prior to joining New York Medical College, he was Dean of the School of Medicine of the University of Louisville, Vice Dean of Duke University School of Medicine, and Chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology at Duke. Dr. Halperin is the author of more than 240 peer-reviewed articles and senior editor of Perez, Brady, Halperin, and Wazer’s Principles and Practice of Radiation Oncology, now in its 8th edition.

Dean McKay, PhD, ABPP, is Professor of Psychology at Fordham University. He has edited 23 books and published over 375 journal articles and book chapters. Dr. McKay is a licensed psychologist in New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, and is board-certified by the American Board of Professional Psychology. His expertise includes anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorders, the role of disgust in psychopathology, and professional issues in delivering science-based psychological interventions. His recent work focuses on antisemitism and identity-based discrimination in medical and mental health systems.

Dr. Jessica Zmood is a licensed clinical psychologist in New York specializing in trauma, anxiety, depression, identity, and relationship therapy. She earned PsyD and MA degrees from Yeshiva University and trained at Columbia University Medical Center, Mount Sinai, and other major institutions. Since 2010, she has run a private practice and is co-founder of Gesher Campus Care, a national mental health referral service for Jewish students and faculty launched after October 7, 2023. A certified Gottman therapist, she focuses on resilience, recovery, and culturally responsive care.

Jose Melendrez, MSW is a highly accomplished educator and administrator in higher education, bringing critical skills in community engagement and coalition building. His approach is with a cultural competence lens focused on empowerment and respect. Jose earned his Master’s in Social Work from the University of Michigan. In August of 2025 Jose was appointed as the Associate Vice Provost for Faculty & Community Initiatives. Jose provides leadership to advance UNLV’s commitment to building and enriching academic partnerships. Previously, Jose served in a dual role as the Interim Vice President for Diversity Initiatives/Chief Diversity Officer and Executive Director for the Office of Community Partnerships in the School of Public Health at UNLV. Jose serves in the leadership of the Nevada Community Health Coalition providing leadership for Campus and Community Engagement.

Dr. Simmons PsyD, is a psychologist, Jungian psychoanalyst, and clinical supervisor with over two decades of experience supporting individuals, couples, and groups. His research focuses on intergenerational trauma and resilience in ethnic minority communities. He serves on the Collaborative of Jewish Psychologists at the American Psychological Association and the Advisory Council of the Jewish Community Relations Council Bay Area. Dr. Simmons has facilitated support groups for Jewish populations experiencing antisemitism and minority stress and collaborates with professional organizations on education, advocacy, and community response initiatives. He maintains a private practice in San Francisco, integrating depth psychology with culturally responsive care.

Dr. Sheri Ross is a board-certified pediatrician and Director of Medical Outreach at the Center for Combating Antisemitism. A founding partner of the first all-female pediatric practice in Chicago, she cared for patients for 40 years before focusing on antisemitism in healthcare. She leads the professional training initiative “Antisemitism is Bad for Medicine” and serves on the StandWithUs National Board. Formerly president of its Midwest Board, Dr. Ross co-authored Antisemitism in American Healthcare (JGIM, December 2024).

Dr. Steven Roth is the Michael Reese Professor of Anesthesiology at the University of Illinois College of Medicine and Vice Head of Research and Faculty Affairs in Anesthesiology. He also holds the title of Professor Emeritus at the University of Chicago. Over his distinguished career as a clinician-scientist, Dr. Roth has secured more than $15 million in NIH and foundation funding. His recent scholarship has focused on antisemitism in medicine, with several publications and editorials, including the largest survey of antisemitism in healthcare published in cooperation with the StandWithUs Research & Analytics Department. In recognition of his leadership, he received the 2025 Shine A Light Foundation University Faculty Award and research funding from the University of Chicago Faculty Emeriti Foundation.

Nili Alon-Amit is a scholar and educator specializing in Holocaust studies, philosophy, and Jewish history. She earned her PhD in ancient philosophy from the University of Haifa and has taught and conducted research in Israel and the United States, including roles as an Israel Institute Visiting Assistant Professor in Los Angeles and a Visiting Research Scholar at UCLA’s Nazarian Center for Israel Studies.

In 2022, Nili joined the Holocaust Education Center as Associate Director, bringing a humanistic and pedagogical approach to Holocaust education. Her academic work includes research on Jewish women imprisoned at Ravensbrück and a published study on the history of happiness, reflecting her commitment to thoughtful, interdisciplinary learning.

Yael Lerman is the Director of StandWithUs Saidoff Law, a division of StandWithUs which empowers students and community members through a legal response to antisemitism. Since founding the division in 2014, Yael has overseen StandWithUs’ legal activities grow to include a full team of staff attorneys and a pro bono network of over 600 lawyers and law firms. In the years since, she has dedicated her professional life to StandWithUs’ mission of supporting Israel and fighting antisemitism, with a focus on civil rights, hate crimes, administrative compliance, and issues of antisemitism related to planned giving and university endowments. Yael is a graduate of Columbia University and NYU Law School. Before joining StandWithUs, she was an associate at Boies Schiller Flexner LLP and a lawyer in ADL’s national legal division. Yael is originally from Los Angeles and is newly based in Maryland.

Carly Gammill is Director of Legal Policy & Litigation at StandWithUs Saidoff Law. Carly is a seasoned constitutional litigator with experience handling matters involving free speech, religious liberties, and other civil rights. Carly is active in fighting antisemitism on campus, in court, and at the United Nations, and she has assisted an array of clients seeking access to public forums. A large part of her work focuses on educating those in decision and policymaking positions, educating about contemporary forms of antisemitism and ensuring audiences are best positioned to protect their legal rights. She has provided trainings for a wide range of corporations, including multiple Fortune 500 companies, as well as university administrators and law enforcement. Carly received her education and professional training in Louisiana, Mississippi, and Virginia, and is based in Alaska.

Gadi I. Dotz is the Assistant Director of StandWithUs Saidoff Law, which provides legal resources to those facing antisemitic and anti-Israel discrimination and has become a prominent force in the legal fight against antisemitism. Prior to joining StandWithUs, he represented clients in complex litigation matters in state and federal courts as a litigation associate, including Cahill Gordon & Reindel LLP. Gadi graduated from the University of Pennsylvania Law School, where he was a Senior Editor of the Journal of International Law, and Yeshiva University Sy Syms School of Business, graduating as valedictorian. Gadi is based in New York.

Deedee Bitran is Senior Counsel and Director of Pro Bono at StandWithUs Saidoff Law. Deedee assists employees experiencing workplace antisemitism and facilitates partnerships between StandWithUs and pro bono lawyers and law firms nationwide to fight antisemitism using the courts. Deedee previously represented employers, business owners, lenders, purchasers and developers in business litigation and employment law matters at Miami’s oldest law firm. Deedee serves as Chair of the Communications Committee for the Business Law Section of the Florida Bar, is on the Florida Community Advisory Committee for Sharsheret, the FIU Hillel Board, and AJC’s Young Professionals Board, and has been published in several law reviews and national publications. Deedee is based in Florida.

Jenna Statfeld Harris is Senior Legal Counsel at StandWithUs Saidoff Law. Jenna focuses on supporting students, parents, teachers and administrators in addressing antisemitism and misinformation about Israel in K-12 schools nationwide. Prior to joining StandWithUs, Jenna worked as a public benefits attorney for individuals with disabilities and as an education attorney representing low-income students in special education, bullying, and discipline matters. Jenna also worked as a corporate tax attorney, representing both corporate entities and nonprofit organizations. She has served on the Board of multiple schools and nonprofit organizations. Jenna graduated from Harvard Law School and the University of Pennsylvania. Jenna is based in New York.

Michael Hoenig recently joined StandWithUs as Litigation Counsel and Director of Community Affairs, Fish Family & Workplace Law Partners. Michael as an experienced litigator with over seventeen years of experience helping individuals and businesses in court, arbitration and mediation. Michael has handled all aspects of civil disputes across a broad range of legal issues. He is a passionate and proud Jewish community leader, who works to advocate for Israel, fight antisemitism, promote Jewish unity, and create an inclusive community. Michael is based in Ohio.

Michael Scheinman is the Assistant Director of Campus, Community Affairs, and Pro Bono at StandWithUs Saidoff Law, where he works to combat antisemitism, educate the public about Israel, and empower communities with legal resources. Michael previously led major compliance reviews and investigations for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights and conducted compliance trainings for major medical systems, hospitals, and universities. Michael graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas William S. Boyd School of Law, where he was President of the Jewish Law Student Association, and completed his undergraduate studies in psychology at UNLV’s Honors College. He is especially proud to have started his Civil Rights work many years ago as a StandWithUs High School Intern. Michael is based in Massachusetts.

Peggy Shapiro is Executive Director of the Center for Combating Antisemitism and a child of Holocaust survivors. A longtime educator and leader, she previously served as Midwest Executive Director of StandWithUs. She has united Jewish, Hindu, Christian, and Black communities to advocate for Israel and against antisemitism. Her efforts have contributed to 36 states passing anti-BDS laws and adopting the IHRA definition of antisemitism. Appointed by Elie Wiesel to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council, she also preserved Holocaust testimonies for the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Yad Vashem and develops workplace training to address antisemitism.

Mina’s father was the youngest foreign volunteer to fight in Israel’s War of Independence (15!!) and her mother was the first female regional president of USY, so you might say that her passion for Jewish continuity and Israel is in her blood. Mina joined the staff of StandWithUs in February 2015 to begin work on her passion project, the IsraelLINK middle school curriculum.  Acknowledging the crisis facing pro-Israel students, as well as the rise in antisemitism, she believes that meaning-making and identity-building are best achieved through a learner-centered, relational approach to education. Her belief is that knowing yourself, where you come from, and taking pride and inspiration from the collective lived experience of your people, is the best defense against ignorance and hatred.  Through IsraelLINK, over 6,500 students now have a deeper understanding of the place Israel – both ancient and modern – holds as an integral part of their identity.  To ensure that IsraelLINK is constantly evolving and on the cutting edge of the best in 21st century education, Mina recently completed an MA Ed in Israel Education from George Washington University.

Rena Nasar First has worked in the campus department at StandWithUs since the beginning of her professional career. As the Executive Director of Campus Affairs, Rena directs a team of local professionals who each work tirelessly to help college students stand up to antisemitism and proudly bring Israel education to their communities. Rena was also featured on the NY Jewish Week’s “36 to Watch” list for 2022, which features innovators who are remaking the Jewish community, or contributing to society in ways that draw upon their diverse Jewish identities and sensibilities. As a proud Syrian Jew, Rena is eager to represent her community wherever she goes. She is honored to be part of the Sephardic Jewish American Diversity and Inclusion Initiative, powered by JIMENA, where she serves on the Sephardic Leadership Advisory Committee and the Women’s Leadership Committee. Rena currently resides in Brooklyn, NY with her loving husband, Jason.

Kate Chavez received her Masters Degree in Government, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution from Reichman University. At StandWithUs, Kate focuses on increasing comprehensive and quality education about the Jewish community in schools across the U.S. Kate is a proud Mexican Jew, passionate about public service, international relations, and fighting antisemitism. Kate has held fellowships, internships, and leadership positions with Masa Israel Journey, Israel Policy Forum, the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles, and the United States House of Representatives, among others. In college, Kate was elected as the Executive Vice President of Associated Students and advocated on behalf of 9,400 students. Kate was also the President and Founder of the first Israel club at her university, as well as the Israel Advocacy Intern for the Hillel on campus.

Alexandra Chana Fishman, PhD, serves as the founding Director of Data and Analytics at StandWithUs, where she oversees research, program evaluation, and survey design addressing critical issues within the Jewish community. Her peer-reviewed scholarship on antisemitism in American healthcare investigates the impact of discrimination on Jewish healthcare professionals, institutional culture, and patient outcomes. Under her direction, StandWithUs implemented a comprehensive dissemination strategy integrating academic publications, media engagement, and policy outreach. Her research, cited in a Congressional hearing, informs a national hospital training program developed by the Center for Combating Antisemitism. Dr. Fishman’s work advances evidence-based, data-driven approaches to mitigating antisemitism across academic, clinical, and policy domains.

Shira Gould is the Associate Director of Campus Strategy at StandWithUs, where she empowers college students to combat antisemitism and anti-Israel campaigns on campus. She works directly with hundreds of students, providing strategic guidance, educational resources, and mentorship to help them confidently address bias, misinformation, and discrimination. She also leads key initiatives and campaigns responding to rising antisemitic trends nationwide.

Shira’s commitment to this work is deeply personal, shaped by her family history, strong connection to Israel, and belief in Jewish self-determination. A graduate of Franklin & Marshall College with honors in Psychology and a minor in Religious Studies, she brings research-driven insight and passion to her role, helping develop the next generation of informed, resilient Jewish leaders.

Avi D. Gordon is the Executive Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this pivotal leadership role, Avi expertly drives the organization’s fundraising efforts to support ACF’s strategic initiatives, actively engaging ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Based in Hollywood, Florida, Avi has significant experience in pro-Israel campus engagement and nonprofit leadership. He is an alum of Binghamton University and George Washington University.

Dr. Rebecca M. Pinchevsky is the Southeast Regional Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Dr. Pinchevsky actively engages ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Her focus is on members who attended colleges and universities in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Louisiana, Arkansas, Texas, or Oklahoma. Based in Boca Raton, Florida, Dr. Pinchevsky has experience spanning the corporate and educational nonprofit sectors and brings a unique, strategic perspective to the fight against campus antisemitism. She is an alum of Yeshiva University and Florida Atlantic University.

Melanie Borker, Esq., is the Tri-State Regional Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Melanie actively engages ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Her focus is on members who attended colleges and universities in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, or West Virginia. Based in New York City, Melanie has experience working at the intersection of law and education. She is an alum of Washington University in St. Louis and New York University School of Law.

Adina M. Winnett is the West Coast Regional Assistant Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Adina actively engages ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Her focus is on members who attended colleges and universities in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Utah, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, California, Alaska, or Hawaii. Based in her hometown of Los Angeles, Adina has more than a decade of experience working in marketing and communications across the nonprofit and corporate public relations sectors. She is an alum of California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo.

Kevin Fine is the Central Regional Assistant Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Kevin actively engages ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. His focus is on members who attended colleges and universities in North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, or Michigan. Originally from New York and now based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Kevin has over ten years of experience as a teacher, instructional leader, curriculum writer, and coach. He is an alum of the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana.

Joanna Stark is the Director of Communications of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Joanna leads the organization’s communications strategy and efforts, helping ACF actively engage its members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Based in Delray Beach, Florida, Joanna brings more than a decade of experience in communications and marketing for fast-paced technology companies and prominent Jewish nonprofits. She is an alum of Florida Atlantic University.

Neeli Yarchi, JD, is the Assistant Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Neeli supports the organization’s communications and regional teams, which actively engage ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, Neeli’s experience spans nonprofit advocacy and policy, with a specialized focus on criminal law and nonprofit grant writing. She is an alum of the University of Cincinnati and Savannah Law School.

Trey Meehan is the Managing Director of Alums for Campus Fairness (ACF), a national organization representing nearly 80,000 Jewish and pro-Israel alumni committed to fighting campus antisemitism at their alma maters. In this role, Trey manages the organization’s operations and leads ACF’s regional team, which actively engages ACF members, community stakeholders, partner organizations, and university leaders in impactful advocacy and educational programs that empower and support Jewish and pro-Israel students. Based in Washington, D.C., Trey is a seasoned nonprofit communications and operations professional. He is an alum of Butler University and the University of Pennsylvania.

Stefanie Tuzman has dedicated nearly two decades to the Jewish nonprofit world, with 16 of those years serving in various leadership roles at the Jewish Federation in Las Vegas—now known as Jewish Nevada. In 2018, following the successful integration of the Jewish Community Center and the Federation, Stefanie was appointed President & CEO of Jewish Nevada, overseeing the organization’s mission to strengthen and connect Jewish life throughout the state. Under her leadership, Jewish Nevada has been recognized by numerous organizations for its impactful work in building community and fostering connection. Stefanie was honored as Vegas Inc’s 40 Under 40 in 2020 and named Cultural Advocate of the Year in 2019, in recognition of her dedication to inclusive leadership and communal advancement. A passionate advocate for vibrant Jewish life, Stefanie is deeply committed to creating spaces of belonging, meaning, and resilience. Outside of her professional work, she enjoys spending time with her two young children, Tova and Jonah, exploring new restaurants, reading, and creating delicious grazing and charcuterie boards to share with friends and family.

Barak Lurie is the managing partner of the law firm Lurie & Associates in Los Angeles. Barak obtained his BA from Stanford University in 1985, and his JD and MBA from UCLA in 1989. He also hosted The Barak Lurie Show, the most listened to radio program on weekend AM radio in Los Angeles. He now hosts one of the most listened-to commentary podcasts, the Barak Lurie Podcast.   Among his greatest prides is serving as a board member for StandWithUs.   Barak has written several bestsellers, particularly his “Atheism Kills” series, and most recently his bestseller “Keeping the Kids All Right,” about how parents can avoid bad choices in their kids’ lives.   Barak is a devout lover of America and Israel, and avid mountain biker. He and his wife Stacey have three children: The youngest is a champion swimmer set to compete in the Macabee games next summer. Another was a Leventhal intern for StandWithUs and now plays for the Israel National Lacrosse team, and another now serves as a lone soldier in Gavati unit of the IDF.

Aviv Kurnas is ISRAEL-is’ first North American Regional Director. Prior to this role, Aviv spent time in Brooklyn, NY, at the Jewish Agency and has developed and spearheaded dozens of delegations to the US, Canada, and Mexico for the Global Division at ISRAEL-is. Aviv serves as an active reservist commander in the Israeli Air Force and has flown in over 75 intelligence missions during the Iron Swords War.

Rabbi Yossi Eilfort is a nationally recognized subject-matter expert in Jewish community security and resilience, and a regular panelist at national security summits and law-enforcement hate-crime and community-protection forums. An active rabbi, trauma-informed responder, former MMA fighter, and certified law-enforcement firearms and Krav Maga instructor, he founded Magen Am to build a new model of community-based security — one rooted in community ownership, responsibility, and collective strength.

Rom El-Hai, born in 1994 in Israel, has long been involved in the country’s festival culture. Before the events of October 7, he worked in insurance sales but volunteered at the Nova Festival, where his life changed forever. As the Hamas attack unfolded, Rom and his friends fled into the fields, taking refuge in an agricultural greenhouse that quickly became a fire trap. Forced to make life-or- death decisions, Rom managed to survive amidst unimaginable chaos. Since that day, Rom has shared his survival story and raised awareness. His presentations offer a raw, emotional insight into that day and the ongoing healing process, inspiring others with lessons of resilience and hope.

Shir Yizchaki serves as the Director of Israeli Student Programs at StandWithUs, where she leads programming which includes the StandWithUs Israeli Fellowship, which identifies and empowers the next generation of Israeli leaders. She is a proud native of Maccabim-Re’ut, central Israel, and now is based in Tel Aviv. Shir is 30 years old and holds a B.A. in Political Science from Tel Aviv University. She is the youngest of four children in a Persian Israeli family and has always been driven by Zionism and a strong commitment to serving her country. A former officer in the Israel Defense Forces, Shir was recently called up for extended reserve duty in response to the horrific events of October 7, 2023, Hamas massacre where she led her battalion’s operations during intense combat in Gaza. Her reserve duty role included coordinating critical military operations, uncovering weapons caches, and overseeing hostage recovery efforts. Through her leadership, Shir continues to inspire and empower the next generation of Israeli leaders and advocates, demonstrating unwavering dedication to Israel and its future.

On October 7, while in Sinai, Egypt, Shahar woke to non-stop messages that Israel was under attack. Within hours, he crossed the Egyptian border, collected his weapon, and joined the Israeli forces on the front lines in southern Israel. He fought alongside his close friend and fellow commander, Ofek Bachar, of blessed memory who later fell in battle, Shahar helped restore control in Kissufim, a town on the Israel-Gaza border and later assisted in recovering victims of the Nova music festival massacre. He has since served over 400 days in reserve duty as a team leader in the IDF’s elite Egoz Unit, taking part in operations across Gaza, Israel’s northern border with Lebanon and coordinating humanitarian efforts. Shahar also joined a special, largely secretive team focused on hostage recovery and intelligence gathering, even from within Gazan civilian networks. This role brought him into the decision rooms where covert plans were crafted to bring our people home. Today, Shahar is completing a B.Sc. in Industrial Engineering and Management at Tel Aviv University and works as a strategic consultant. Motivated by service, loss, and hope, he shares his story to honor the fallen and inspire unity and resilience.

Becky Mamann served 5 years as a combat officer in the IDF, commanding men and women in a co-ed combat unit- Caracal. She voluntarily drafted to the IDF after graduating high school at the age of 18, she made the decision to leave her family and friends behind in Toronto, Canada and to embarked on a new journey to serve as a soldier in the IDF. Becky is the granddaughter of two Holocaust Survivors; her grandfather, Jack Weinberger z”l from Nowy Sacz, Poland, whom survived multiple concentration camps until liberated from Mathausen. He was the only member of his family to survive. Her grandmother Hedva was born in Hungary, where she survived the ghetto and eventually survived the Holocaust while in hiding with fraud Swedish documents with her sister and grandmother. After the Holocaust, Becky’s grandparents met in Israel and got married there, eventually moving to Canada where her mother was born. Becky’s father and his family were born in Casablanca, Morocco, one of the oldest and largest Jewish communities in the Arab world, after facing discrimination and threat, they felt no longer safe there and moved to Canada. Her mother and father met in Canada and eventually got married, and had four daughters who were raised in the Jewish community in Toronto, Canada. Becky was deeply influenced by her family; her parents and grandparents, she was born and raised in a traditional Jewish home in Toronto, she was raised on Jewish values and the Zionist dream, which influenced her decision to make Aliyah and serve in the IDF, in order to fight for the survival of the Jewish people of the world, just as her grandparents did. In 2018, Becky drafted to the IDF for basic training in the Caracal battalion, promoted to become a staff sergeant for the remainder of her mandatory service, and eventually promoted to become an Officer and to continue serving for an extra 2 years, earning a certificate of excellence from Israeli president Rivlin. During her service, she completed daily missions on Egyptian Border, securing the sector with her company and commanding her soldiers on each task. On Oct. 7, while no longer in active service, Becky got called to Reserve duty to the Northern Command Front, she lost friends in battle in Gaza and from the Nova festival. From that day forward she knew she would continue to fight for the existence of Israel. Currently she is a student at Ben Gurion University and working at StandWithUs as a Fellowship Coordinator for Israeli students.

Born into an Israeli family with roots in Hungary, Sweden, and Yemen, Maayan Schwartz grew up a dedicated student in Kfar Saba. Her passion for her studies brought her to where she is today, in her third year studying law and govt at Reichman University in Herzliya. Maayan served as a combat soldier stationed on the Gaza border during the Hamas-led riots at the border and witnessed the reality of the hate Israel was facing which shaped her understanding of the depth of the conflict. Her Zionism was inspired by her family roots, specifically her grandfather from Yemen who served in the British military during WWII fighting against the Nazis, later to be captured and imprisoned in a Nazi concentration camp. His story of resilience has lived with her from her military service and beyond. On October 7, 2023, Maayan was in New York, where initially she experienced an outpouring of support. Just days later in Amsterdam, however, she was confronted by signs accusing Israel of genocide and calls to end the war. Unwilling to remain silent, she began speaking directly to people, sharing her personal experiences to challenge misinformation and false narratives. This was the start of the path Maayan is on today, as a proud alum of the StandWithUs Israel Fellowship where she was a leader in the, “Growing Memory,” project, Maayan continues to dedicate her time to preserving the memories of fallen soldiers, strengthening communal resilience, and sharing her personal story as a powerful reflection of the on the ground reality Israelis are facing.

Fuad was born to an Arab-Israeli family in the Northern city of Tamra. Growing up in an Arab Muslim city with good relations with neighboring Jewish, Christian, and Druze cities, his childhood experiences were a testament to the reality of coexistence experienced by many Israelis today. This reality is one that Fuad is passionate about sharing with the world through his story. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Communications & Journalism as well as a Master’s in Political Communications both from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He has taken his skills in public diplomacy, communications, and social media to positions in the Office of the President and the Ministry of National Security, as well as the StandWithUs Israel fellowship, serving a vital role combatting anti Israel narratives on Arabic online media. His desire to serve the public was strengthened following October 7th, 2023. Since the October 7th attacks, Fuad became more active on the online front as anti Israel disinformation escalated on social media platforms. He has been doing his part connecting Israeli spokespeople, both Arab and Jewish, to global media outlets, and leading volunteer educational sessions for displaced students and digital influencers on how to counter fake news and support Israel’s narrative online. Tragedy struck Fuad personally when his childhood friend, Jamal Abbas, a proud Druze IDF officer, was killed in combat in Gaza. His death left a lasting impact on Fuad, deepening his sense of responsibility and strengthening his commitment to stand for unity. Through it all, Fuad’s message remains clear: the rockets did not distinguish between Arabs and Jews, and neither should our sense of belonging. He embodies the belief that all citizens of Israel-regardless of background-share the same fate and must stand united. Today, he proudly carries the voice of both the Israeli people and the Arab citizens of Israel to the world, guided by honesty, nuance, and a deep sense of purpose.

Dr. Jonathan Schanzer is the executive director at FDD, where he oversees the work of the organization’s experts and scholars. Jonathan previously worked as a terrorism finance analyst at the U.S. Department of the Treasury, where he followed and froze the funding of Hamas and al-Qaeda. Jonathan has held previous think tank research positions at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and the Middle East Forum. He has written hundreds of articles on the Middle East and U.S. national security. His most recent book is Gaza Conflict 2021: Hamas, Israel and Eleven Days of War (FDD Press 2021). His other books are State of Failure: Yasser Arafat, Mahmoud Abbas, and the Unmaking of the Palestinian State (Palgrave Macmillan 2013), Hamas vs. Fatah: The Struggle for Palestine (Palgrave Macmillan 2008), and Al-Qaeda’s Armies: Middle East Affiliate Groups and the Next Generation of Terror (Washington Institute for Near East Policy 2004). Jonathan testifies often before Congress and appears on television channels such as CNN, Fox News, BBC, and MSNBC.