Empowered to Lead: Honoring the 2025 Graduates of the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Initiative
05/23/2025
On May 20, 2025, twenty-one women gathered to celebrate their graduation from the fourth cohort of the Pauline Foster Women’s Leadership Initiative (PFWLI). Developed by Jewish Federation of San Diego, PFWLI brings together Jewish women from diverse backgrounds for a rigorous, values-based experience. The program builds leadership skills and lasting relationships rooted in purpose and community.
Honoring Pauline Foster’s Legacy
PFWLI is named in memory of Pauline Foster, z”l, a trailblazing philanthropist and visionary who reshaped the leadership landscape of San Diego’s Jewish and civic communities. From founding the Women’s Division of the United Jewish Federation to becoming the first woman board president of multiple major organizations, Pauline Foster’s impact continues to inspire generations of women leaders.
About the Initiative
Over the past several months, participants of the PFWLI engaged in an immersive program blending leadership development, Jewish learning, and mentorship. Designed for Jewish women in the early to mid-stages of their leadership journeys, the initiative emphasizes:
- Tzelem Elohim (Image of G-d): Recognizing the inherent value in every leader
- Gedula (Excellence): Encouraging collaborative and creative leadership
- Achrayut (Responsibility): Linking philanthropy with active, values-driven leadership
- Kehila Kedosha (Sacred Community): Building inclusive and thriving communal leadership
Transformative Learning and Connection
As the cohort reflected on their experience, it was clear that the program’s impact extended beyond the curriculum. Through shared learning, mentorship, and honest dialogue, the group built not only their leadership capacity, but also lasting relationships and a deeper sense of communal responsibility.
“I believe in creating spaces for healthy discourse—where people can share different views, feel heard, and work toward shared understanding and collective ownership,” said Daniela Jinich, 2025 PFWLI graduate. “I hope to inspire a ripple effect, starting with my immediate community and extending outward.”
Graduation Highlights
The graduation celebration reflected the depth of the journey the cohort had taken together. Participants shared stories of what shaped their leadership and how they plan to lead with intention in the future. Many spoke about the values that drive their work and the personal experiences that fuel their commitment to making a difference.
“Growing up under apartheid in South Africa instilled in me a fierce commitment to justice and the belief that it is our responsibility as Jews to be a light unto the nations,” said Glenda Sacks, 2025 PFWLI graduate. “I carry this with me in all I do, striving to make a meaningful difference through both professional and volunteer leadership.”
“My leadership is rooted in ensuring that every Jew—and every Jew-adjacent person—feels welcome and affirmed in our community,” said Netanya Cranford, 2025 PWFLI graduate. “I draw strength from the mentors and friends I’ve met through this program, knowing that collaboration is key to courageous leadership. I want to bring people together, share what I’ve learned, and help ensure that our children can live with joy, belonging, and safety.”
Looking Ahead
The women of this year’s cohort leave PFWLI with more than new tools. They carry forward a shared vision for Jewish leadership—one rooted in values, purpose, and community. Whether this passion lies in social justice, community-building, or inclusive philanthropy, each graduate now leads with strengthened relationships and a deepened sense of responsibility. Their leadership reflects the heart of this program: that Jewish values are not just traditions, but living principles that guide how we show up, serve others, and shape our future together.
As we look to the next chapter, we’re excited to welcome a new group of changemakers into the fold. If you or someone you know if ready to grow as a leader, build lifelong relationships, and make a difference through Jewish community, we invite you to submit a nomination for the 2025-2026 PFWLI cohort.
