Jewish Federations of North America are thrilled to welcome Sherri Ketai of Detroit as the new Chair of National Women's Philanthropy (NWP), one of the fastest growing programs within Federations. 
 

“I am truly honored and humbled to serve in the role of Chair of National Women’s Philanthropy. This organization embodies the incredible generosity, strength, and dedication of women who believe in making a difference,” Ketai said. “I am excited to work alongside passionate and inspiring individuals as we continue to uplift communities, create meaningful change, and empower future generations of women philanthropists. Together, our impact knows no bounds.” 

Ketai will be installed in June and officially start her position as Chair on July 1, 2025. Her term will conclude in June 2027.  
 

Ketai has deep experience from her current and previous leadership roles, including serving on the Federation Board of Governors, as Vice Chair of the Executive Board, as Annual Campaign Chair, and more. She brings passion for women's philanthropy from her previous roles on the NWP Board, currently serving as NWP Chair of Endowment and Lion Behind the Pin.  
  

NWP also oversees Lions of Judah, which have raised over one billion dollars in total to advance Jewish communities  and aid vulnerable Jews here in North America, in Israel, and around the world.  The Lions of Judah include philanthropic women of all ages who play a critical role in driving social justice, helping the vulnerable, and building flourishing Jewish communities around the world with high-impact philanthropic gifts through their Jewish Federations. 
 

The Lions of Judah program was established in 1972 by Norma Kipnis Wilson and Toby Friedland, both of blessed memory, to recognize the significant role of women in philanthropy within the Jewish community and allow women to show their commitment to Jewish people through their philanthropy.  At the time Lions of Judah was created, $5,000 was the amount needed to bring a Jewish family from the Former Soviet Union to the United States. Since its inception, the program has experienced substantial growth, with over 20,000 women worldwide becoming Lions and expanding its reach.  
 

Every other year, the Lions gather at the International Lion of Judah Conference (ILOJC), a transformative gathering of dynamic, influential, and philanthropic women from across the world. 

The most recent ILOJC was held last month in Atlanta with 1,700 women in attendance.