Cathy’s Whim Cathy’s Whim

  • Home
  • Cathy's WHIM - A True Mentor

Cathy’s WHIM – A True Mentor

Cathy Gardner | December 20, 2017
Cathy’s WHIM – A True Mentor

It’s hard to believe that five years ago this month, I began working as CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton. I could have never imagined then how many wonderful people I would have the privilege of getting to know, and how many incredible friendships I would form. One of the friendships I hold dearest is with former Federation CEO Peter Wells.

Peter has been instrumental to my success here in Dayton. From the beginning, he has served as a mentor to me. Even though Peter has been retired from the Federation for 12 years, his commitment to the Dayton Jewish community is strong. And the wealth of information Peter holds is immeasurable.

Because of Peter’s strong history, his involvement in our Jewish Foundation’s partnership program LIFE & LEGACY™ was a perfect match. Peter agreed to be a consultant, helping all of the organizations in the community as they consider potential legacy participants and have important conversations with them.

Recently, a dear friend asked me what it is about Peter that made us instant friends. Even though it took several moments to figure out how to articulate the feeling, I realized that his generosity of spirit is incredibly warm and welcoming.

I am so inspired by Peter. I look forward to many more years in the Dayton Jewish community, and working with such an amazing predecessor. We are incredibly lucky to have such a talented, amazing person like Peter in our community.

 

 

 

To receive Cathy’s WHIM in your inbox each week, click here.


Chief Executive Officer
Cathy Gardner

Latest Articles

View All Articles
Cabin Fever Relief
Cathy Gardner

It’s hard to believe that in just five weeks, Spring will officially be here. The weather over the past month has been, well, let’s just say, interesting. I’m a big fan of snow, but I know I’m probably an exception to the rule. Between the snow and bitter cold temperatures, I’m sure cabin fever has set in for some people. The good news is temperatures are finally in a much more acceptable range, and the snow is slowly melting. If you are ready to get out of the house, the JCC has two events coming up that may be of...

Read More

(Re)Building the Bridge
Cathy Gardner

Since 1970, February has also been known as Black History Month. It serves as a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout history, while also recognizing their struggles for acceptance and equality. Sadly, the Black community still experiences prejudice to this very day. As Jewish people, we too have experienced our own struggles with acceptance and equality. It was not too long ago that Jewish people were banned from living in certain communities or belonging to certain clubs. The latter was even a part of the storyline of S3, EP15 of The Golden Girls. The episode,...

Read More

Looking Back
Cathy Gardner

As we stand on the edge of 2026, I can’t help but reflect on the last year. It has been filled with ups and downs for many of us on a personal level, and as a Jewish community. As an organization, the Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton and its Agencies have had a very busy year. Here are just a few highlights of what we accomplished in 2025: Since October 7, 2023, we have seen a significant increase in antisemitism throughout the world – including here in Ohio. What became evident in the wake of 10/7 was the need for...

Read More

Jewish Federation of Greater Dayton Stay Up to Date!