This Shabbat, between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, invites us to reflect, repent, and return—to God, to our values, and to ourselves. It’s a time to ask: Are we living in alignment with what matters most? 

For me, this Shabbat is also personal. Forty years ago, on Shabbat Shuvah, I celebrated my bat mitzvah. This weekend, I return to that moment—not to redo it, but to complete it, as I will chant my maftir for the first time while repeating the haftorah I chanted 40 years ago. I share this with you as this journey has been a reinforcement for me that my connection to Jewish identity is about more than the ongoing efforts to counter antisemitism, but to joy, learning, and tradition. 

This week’s Parsha, Vayeilech, reminds us that leadership, tradition, and Torah are meant to be passed on and renewed. Moses tells Joshua: “Be strong and courageous.” These words have guided me through life’s challenges, and they guide me now as I rededicate myself to Jewish life and continuity. 

I have taken great inspiration from our formal and informal campus leaders, who continue to be strong and courageous. We were honoured to host Casey Babb and Loay Alshareef on campus, partnered with Hillel (with a faculty and student mixer prior) and inspired by the efforts of faculty member Margot Jackson to foster dialogue. This comes at a crucial time, when one-sided narratives are co-opting and subverting the values that civilized society holds dear. She showed us there is a willingness, and I thank all those who attended. 

We are thankful to CBC Radio Active for hosting this interview with Casey and Loay, and we will post our recording of the event on our YouTube channel early next week. 

Strengthening and fostering leadership has been one pillar of our strategic plan. While we continue to support and work with lay leaders, we are very excited to offer a premier program to next-gen emerging leadership, facilitated by the Ronald S. Roadburg, Azrieli and Rosalind and Morris Goodman Family Foundations. The Wexner Heritage Program is being offered to a cross-Canada cohort of 30–45-year-olds. You can find out more about this initiative and nominate someone to apply now.

As we reflect on our own journeys this Shabbat, let us also remember the power of tzedakah—the United Jewish Appeal (UJA) campaign has made all of this possible. Supporting young leaders on campus, ensuring that we still cultivate new leaders across our community, and providing educational opportunities through our countering antisemitism series are some of the many examples of the impact of your generosity.  

I encourage you to make a gift to the UJA campaign, which strengthens our community and sustains Jewish life here and around the world. 

Together, may we return, renew, and rebuild—strong and courageous. 

Shabbat Shalom,

Stacey