The Brawerman Fellowship has profoundly shaped both my academic journey and personal development. While its generous financial support enabled me to pursue higher education without the burden of debt, the fellowship’s true impact lies in the vibrant, tight-knit community it fosters and the meaningful opportunities for leadership growth it provides.
Foremost among these were the bi-annual retreats – experiences that balanced community-building with intentional leadership development. Just as impactful were the insights and accomplishments shared by my peers, which continually inspired me to grow into a more thoughtful, engaged, and capable version of myself.
What set these retreats apart was the culture of mutual respect and inclusivity. While each fellow brought exceptional talent and intellect, the environment fostered inclusivity rather than competition. We bonded over our shared identities as young Jewish leaders while embracing the diversity of thought and experience each person brought to the table. The result was a space laden with intellectually and emotionally stimulating dialogue – one that not only strengthened my leadership, but also deepened my sense of belonging. The most memorable moments were always the informal ones: time spent in conversation, laughter, and reflection with peers who quickly became lifelong friends.
Being a Brawerman Fellow entails showing up as a passionate Jewish advocate, a courageous leader, and a dedicated community builder. These qualities were cultivated and sharpened through every retreat and interaction within the program. Surrounded by driven, like-minded individuals, I found myself consistently inspired to be a better version of myself. I am deeply grateful for this fellowship’s lasting community — one that I know will continue to offer support, friendship, and inspiration well beyond the program’s conclusion.
Ava Lifton, Brawerman Class of 2025
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