This season is one of transition: the weather is changing; soon, the kids will be out of school and summer will be here.

At the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta, plans are underway to bid farewell to one president and welcome another. On June 2, at our annual meeting, Jack Halpern will pass the gavel to our new president, Linda Selig. Like Jack, Linda is extremely dedicated to the Federation and Atlanta's Jewish community. Linda's presidency will also mark the first time in nearly two decades that we have had a female at the helm.

During Jack's tenure our campaign has continued to press forward and we are proud to note that Atlanta's Campaign for Community Needs is setting the pace nationally. The more we raise, the more people we help. Jack's tenacity and quiet confidence as a leader has helped us to build a solid foundation for the future of our Jewish community. He has strengthened relationships between the Federation and local agencies and synagogues and has been a tireless volunteer throughout his two-year term.

Speaking of the future, as we prepare for a change in season and a new administration, we continue to move forward with our strategic planning initiative begun under Jack's tenure. Our intense research and ongoing study has given us even more focus as we prepare to begin the implementation phase of our long-range plan. Implementing this vision will require the commitment of the entire Jewish community as we seek to create a bold workplan for new success.  

We are indeed fortunate here in Atlanta to have dedicated volunteer leaders such as Jack and Linda who have never shied away from a challenge and share the drive and passion to truly make a difference in our community.

Next time you see them, say, "Thanks!"

Steven A. Rakitt, Chief Executive Officer