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Dear Friends,
In 2010, Mort Mandel asked me to serve as President of the Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel Foundation, a responsibility that has been a great honor and privilege. Working alongside Mort was one of the most rewarding experiences in my professional life. Following Mort’s passing in 2019, I have held the title of President and CEO and worked to strengthen the Mandel brothers’ legacy in the United States and Israel. Today, I am writing to share my decision to retire on December 31, 2026.
It has been deeply meaningful to advance the Foundation’s mission through the efforts of our dedicated trustees, colleagues, faculty, fellows and partners. Together, we have expanded the Foundation’s work in leadership development, humanities, Jewish life and urban engagement.
Photo credit Brandeis University, Mike Lovett (2008)
The Foundation's impact throughout Greater Cleveland is widely recognized, including historic investments in higher education, lakefront access, community development and digital equity. Our partnerships with world renowned institutions such as Case Western Reserve University, the Cleveland Orchestra and the Cleveland Clinic have created a legacy of leadership that extends beyond our community. We have also become a trusted leader in Jewish education, security and communal leadership. These accomplishments would not be possible without our highly skilled Mandel Foundation teams in Cleveland and Boston.
Our commitment to Israel is reflected in our investments in leadership development, education, the humanities and cultural institutions working toward a democratic and inclusive Israeli society. The Foundation has supported efforts to build a vibrant Jerusalem, expanded opportunities for people of different backgrounds to learn and work together, and helped communities respond to extraordinary challenges with resilience and hope. I know Mort would be proud of all that we’ve accomplished there, and I am grateful for the friendship, partnership and commitment of our team in Israel, led by Moshe Vigdor.
Mandel Foundation-Israel groundbreaking (2018)
Looking back, I am most proud of how our Mandel Foundation colleagues rose to the challenges we faced throughout COVID-19 and in Israel after October 7, 2023. The way our staff and graduates mobilized to provide support to their communities was proof of Mort’s vision that investing in high-quality leadership is key to improving the world.
Thank you to all the Mandel trustees, staff, faculty, graduates and community partners whose stewardship continues to advance the Foundation’s mission. Through your leadership and commitment, I am confident the Mandel brothers’ legacy and impact will continue for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Jehuda Reinharz
President and CEO
A Message from Steve Hoffman, Board Chair
Dear Mandel Foundation community,
Following the announcement by Jehuda Reinharz that he will retire at the end of this year, I want to express, on behalf of the Board of Trustees, our deep appreciation for his service and his commitment to advancing the vision of the Mandel brothers.
Working first alongside Mort (2010-2019) and later as President and CEO, Jehuda guided the Foundation through a successful leadership transition and helped us navigate historic world events.
Under his leadership, the Foundation strengthened its work in Israel and the United States. I have truly appreciated Jehuda’s partnership over the past several years, and I will miss the wisdom, insight and friendship we shared while working together.
Our Board of Trustees will meet soon to begin the search for a successor. Beginning January 1, I will serve as acting president until a new leader is hired. The Board will share additional updates as they become available.
Please join me in thanking Jehuda for his many contributions and wishing him all the best in the years ahead.
Sincerely,
Steve Hoffman
Board Chair
