Rabbi Donny Schwartz

Graphic by Angelie Zaslavsky
“For me and hundreds of other teens, Rabbi Donny was an inspirational guide through the madness of high school. Before Donny, I pictured rabbis as old, distant men making boring speeches at Shabbat services and the High Holy Days. Donny worked tirelessly to create a multitude of opportunitie that would engage high school students. Whether it was leading a group trip to New York or speaking at a youth group convention, Donny seemed to be everywhere. Because of this constant interaction, he “gets” what teenagers are going through. He made Judaism accessible to a demographic that is often times unreceptive. As a college student now, I may not remember every word he said, but the Jew that I am today, and the one that I am seeking to become, was undoubtedly shaped by his valuable lessons.”
—ETHAN RITZ
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
