In mid-October, just after the dedication of the Madeline Pargh Arts and Crafts Center, we will say goodbye to Leslie Sax, who has served as the Executive Director of the Gordon Jewish Community Center for the past decade. Leslie has accepted a position at the JCC in Hartford, CT so that she can be closer to her children and grandchildren who all now reside in the Northeast. In a time when organizational loyalty is at a low, how wonderful it is to have had the same very competent, very dedicated captain at the helm of our ship for a decade.

While we are sorry to see Leslie go, we are grateful to her for leaving our Jewish Community Center, and by extension, our Jewish community, in a place of strength. Because of her tireless efforts and leadership, we have the opportunity now to build on the foundation laid by our departing Director — a true blessing during this time of transition.

There can be no doubt that Leslie is leaving the Gordon JCC and Nashville itself better than she found it. In her tenure, Leslie has grown our endowment and commenced a successful annual fund campaign She oversaw the construction of the Madeline Pargh Arts and Crafts Center, the installation of the Adventure Park, and numerous facility upgrades, including essential security enhancements during a period when our community recognizes the need for increased safety measures. Leslie brought joy to this community by implementing popular programs like the Kosher Hot Chicken and JAM Festivals, the Jewish Food Festival, and Under One Roof Sukkot Collaborative Art Exhibit.

And, of course, she saw us through the Covid19 pandemic with as much grace and leadership as anyone could have asked for.

Even as she prepares for her next adventure, Leslie continues to work for the betterment of the Gordon Jewish Community Center. I hope you will join me in thanking Leslie for all she has done for our community as we see her off with a farewell gathering at the Under One Roof exhibit in the Pargh Auditorium of the Gordon JCC on October 3 from 5-7PM.

And, of course, as Leslie is no stranger to Southern hospitality, she knows that she will always be welcomed home whenever she desires to visit.