Andrew Cushnir
As we gather in our homes and synagogues during this High Holiday season, we look back on the past year and ahead to new beginnings. And just as Rosh Hashanah is about fresh starts, I find myself thinking a lot about my most recent journey.
My life in the last year has been full of change. I moved to Baltimore six months ago to become the president and CEO of The Associated. For the previous 20 years, I worked at the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles, most recently as its chief executive vice president and chief development officer. When I learned about the opening at The Associated, I was ready to explore something new.
I was impressed by all the wonderful things I had heard about the Baltimore Jewish community, as well as The Associated’s national reputation for being innovative, nimble and forward-thinking. Upon arriving in Baltimore last spring, I was immediately struck by how deeply this community lived up to that reputation.
Let me begin by saying that Baltimore is truly a great place to be Jewish. The Associated’s network of Jewish agencies plays a central role in caring for and inspiring the community. Baltimore’s unique Jewish culture, its local synagogues and day schools, as well as the diverse Jewish programming, makes it easy for everyone to feel welcome to explore their Jewish identity.
What’s impressed me most is the cohesiveness and mutual respect that ties this community together. Despite the diversity of practices and beliefs, there is a commitment to working together and building bridges across differences to strengthen the Jewish experience.
When I first arrived, I was asked about The Associated’s centralized model, which is rare among federations today. What I’ve learned is how invaluable this structure is. Every community needs a strong voice, a central table that brings people together, a place to meaningfully engage in Jewish activities, the muscle to respond to issues and crises and a powerful way to raise resources to make our precious community even stronger.
And I now know that no one does it better than we do it here. The level of coordination, collaboration and intentionality is unmatched. We’re not just reacting; we’re thoughtfully investing in areas like security, fighting antisemitism and supporting families struggling with mental health or financial challenges. Every decision is made with care to ensure that we’re making the greatest impact possible.
As we welcome in 5785 and begin the new Jewish year, I’m filled with excitement for the year ahead — both personally and professionally. After many years in California, I’m eager to experience the beauty of the changing seasons, maybe even my first snowstorm, and try some of that famous rainbow cake.
And as The Associated’s new president and CEO, I’m looking forward to the many milestones ahead — especially our move to the new Goldsmith Campus, which will provide even more opportunities to better serve you. But above all, I am truly excited to continue getting to know this incredible community and working together to build something lasting and strong.
L’shana Tova! Wishing you and your family a joyful, healthy and sweet new year.
Andrew Cushnir is president and CEO of The Associated: Jewish Federation of Baltimore.
