by DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, Development Manager
This is my last post as Development Manager at Mayyim Hayyim. In a few weeks I’ll be heading to a new position as Institutional Giving Manager at the Huntington Theatre. It was an opportunity that fell in my lap, and after much difficult soul-searching I decided to return to my original career track in theater administration.
It was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever had to make. I’ve been so embraced by you – my Mayyim Hayyim community, from day one. This is a remarkably special place, and I’ve learned so much from the incredible staff, board members, and volunteers I’ve had the privilege of working with. It’s been an honor to help Mayyim Hayyim raise funds to continue providing life-changing moments of immersion, reflection, celebration, affirmation and healing to Jewish people the world over.
One of my most meaningful moments as Development Manager came this past May, at Open Waters, our spring benefit. My months up to then had been consumed with event logistics and fundraising. It was my first time running a major benefit, and I was terrified of screwing up. I was helped by an amazing team of staff and volunteers, and miraculously the event went off without a hitch. I remember sitting in the audience for the performance, watching 500 people moved to tears and laughter as actors brought people’s real mikveh experiences to life. I was blown away by the support of the community in that room – each of us having had our lives changed by Mayyim Hayyim in some way.
I hope I’ve been able to contribute to Mayyim Hayyim’s incredible work, and to put the organization in a position for strengthened development efforts in the coming years. I will miss all of you, but plan to stay involved as a volunteer, visitor, and immersee.
Thank you.
P.S. I can’t believe I got through this entire post without making a water pun. I’ve learned nothing.
DeDe Jacobs-Komisar is the outgoing development manager at Mayyim Hayyim.