GREENVILLE, S.C. – The nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the Upstate’s vibrant Jewish community has hired community leader Courtney Tessler to be its CEO – a first for the 76-year-old organization.
The Greenville Jewish Federation works tirelessly to support educational programs, social services, cultural events, and advocacy efforts that promote Jewish values, heritage, and unity, said Elizabeth Lapidus, the board president.
People of the Jewish faith have lived in the region since at least 1794, when a man named Eleazar Elizar was named postmaster for Greenville’s predecessor village of Pleasantburg. Over the generations, they have become an important part of the fabric of the Upstate community. As the Federation grows to meet the needs of a changing Upstate, the board decided it was time to chart a new path forward.
That led to hiring Tessler as CEO, whose goal will be to elevate the Federation's impact and foster collaboration among community members, organizations, and partners, Lapidus said. Tessler has served on the Federation board since 2015.
“This is an exciting time for our organization as we reorganize how we function to better serve our community,” Lapidus said. “Courtney brings an amazing amount of energy, experience, and leadership to this post.
With an extensive background in organizational leadership, nonprofit service and a passion for her Jewish community, Tessler has already started the tasks of planning new events and programs and creating community partnerships. She sees her short-term goal as creating lasting change through growth for the organization.
“My goal is to help build a sustainable framework for the organization so future CEOs and future boards can continue the work successfully long-term,” Tessler said. “By transitioning to a professionally led organization and expanding its leadership team, the Federation aims to elevate its ability to meet the evolving needs of the community, drive sustainable growth, foster unity, and ensure a vibrant Jewish future for generations to come.”
About the Greenville Jewish Federation:
The Greenville Jewish Federation is a dynamic organization dedicated to serving and strengthening the Jewish community in Greenville and neighboring counties. With a rich history of philanthropy and community building, the Federation works tirelessly to support educational programs, social services, cultural events, and advocacy efforts that promote Jewish values, heritage, and unity.
To learn more about the Greenville Jewish Federation's initiatives and upcoming programs, visit www.jewishgreenville.org.