Miles Leon and Philip Rovner.
The Tidewater Jewish Foundation celebrated its 30th anniversary, acknowledged the members of the Simon Family Legacy Society and honored Philip Rovner on his retirement from the Foundation after 18 years of service on Thursday, April 24.
Approximately 150 people attended. The program included a welcome by the Foundation’s chair, Ron Kramer, a brief history of the Foundation by Hal Sacks, TJF’s executive director emeritus, and remarks by Kim Simon Fink on behalf of the Simon family.
“We are an effective, efficient machine. We give so that we can sustain, we increase our giving so we can build and grow,” said Fink. “It gives me great pride that the legacy continues.” Rovner was honored by Miles Leon, president of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, and Harry Graber, its executive vice president with remarks and two pieces of art.
Rovner was also presented a cherry tree, planted on Campus, by Randy Parrish, CFO of the Foundation, on behalf of TJF’s staff.
“Like this tree, this organization is very healthy, its roots are very firmly in the soil, and I fully expect that Philip’s work will generate great things and continue to grow in the future,” said Parrish.
Rovner concluded the program with his remarks about his mentors and inspiration over his 18 years of service. “This evening we are celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Tidewater Jewish Foundation. I’ve been so very honored, humbled and fortunate to have been its president and CEO. You have heard and viewed some of the history of the Foundation from others tonight. What I wish to share with you is a sense of community and commitment that most every one of our donors has expressed as to why they have left their names and their financial resources to this marvelous venture, as testimony to the future of our Jewish community.”
To make a donation in honor of Philip Rovner’s retirement, contact Shelby Tudor at 757-965-6105 or studor@ujft.org.