NEW YORK – The board of the World Jewish Congress-American Section has unanimously elected J. Philip Rosen as its new Chair. In this role, he will collaborate with WJC President Ronald S. Lauder to enhance the organization’s efforts in the United States and strengthen ties between the American Jewish community and its counterparts around the globe.
A prominent New York attorney, Rosen led the Property Group and Hospitality and Gaming Group at Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP. His extensive involvement in Jewish organizations includes serving as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of the Birthright Israel Foundation and as a member of the Board of Trustees of Yeshiva University. His blend of professional success and dedication to Jewish causes positions him to effectively advance the American Jewish community’s role within the WJC.
Rosen’s election comes at a pivotal time for the Jewish community, which has experienced a concerning surge in antisemitism and heightened global tensions. The strengthened leadership of the WJC-American Section will be essential in confronting these challenges and reinforcing bonds across the Jewish world.
“I am honored to take on this role as Chair of the WJC-American Section,” Rosen said. “Our mission is more vital than ever amid rising challenges. We must empower American Jewry to support our global Jewish family. I look forward to working with our team to reinforce WJC partnerships and ensure Jewish voices are heard by those with influence.”
Amb. Lauder welcomed Rosen’s appointment, saying, “Phil Rosen’s unwavering dedication to the Jewish people and the State of Israel has been evident throughout his career. As Chair of our American Section, he will be instrumental in strengthening the bonds between American Jews and WJC’s affiliated communities at a time when unity and support are more critical than ever. I am confident that his leadership and vision will make the WJC-American Section stronger, and I look forward to working with him as he assumes this important position.”
Speaking to members of the board following Rosen’s appointment, Chair of WJC North America David Koschitzky said, “I am delighted to welcome Phil Rosen as Chair of the World Jewish Congress-American Section. WJC serves as a vital voice for the global Jewish community, and I look forward to working closely with Phil to support him as he takes on this new role.”
In addition to Rosen’s election, the WJC-American Section announced the appointment of Sara Friedman as its Executive Director. Friedman, who serves as WJC’s Chief Marketing Officer and CEO of WJC-Israel, will support Rosen and the Section’s leadership team by overseeing initiatives across the United States. She will also work closely with communities and partners to implement strategic programs, ensuring alignment with the WJC’s global mission and goals. Friedman has been a key part of WJC’s efforts in North America and brings extensive experience in organizational management and community outreach to her new role.
This announcement follows another significant WJC leadership appointment. Earlier this month, the board of WJC-Israel appointed Israeli-Canadian philanthropist Sylvan Adams as President of the WJC’s Israel region. These leadership moves reflect the WJC’s commitment to bolstering its regional sections and reinforcing Jewish unity and advocacy worldwide.
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