SAN DIEGO (June 2, 2026) – Jewish Federation of San Diego (Federation) has named Jessica Korsunsky the recipient of the 2026 Michael Jeser Outstanding Jewish Professional Award in recognition of her leadership, professional achievement and commitment to strengthening Jewish life across San Diego and beyond.

Named in memory of Michael Jeser z”l, former President and CEO of Federation, the award recognizes emerging and mid-career Jewish communal professionals in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and dedication to Jewish communal life. Now in its fourth year, the award includes up to $5,000 to support a professional development experience or program for the recipient, continuing Jeser’s legacy of mentoring future Jewish leaders.

As Western Region Program Officer for PJ Library at the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, Korsunsky supports Jewish professionals and organizations across 40 western-region communities, helping create welcoming pathways into Jewish life for individuals and families.

“I am deeply passionate about the power of community to improve individual lives and the role of collaboration in strengthening the collective impact of Jewish communal work,” Korsunsky said. “People cannot engage in Jewish life if they do not feel seen, welcomed, or connected. My Jewish communal involvement has focused on helping Jewish and multi-faith families build friendships and connect to Jewish life.”

While her professional work spans the western United States, Korsunsky’s impact is especially visible in North County San Diego, where her volunteer leadership has helped create spaces for Jewish families to connect and build community. She founded the Jewish Moms of North North County Facebook group, which now includes more than 400 members, and is also involved with organizations including Coastal Roots Farm and Jewish Fertility Foundation.

Korsunsky is currently pursuing a master’s degree at the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership, continuing to strengthen her leadership and fundraising skills.

“My family and I are deeply moved to see Jessica receive this year’s award,” said Laura Jeser, Michael Jeser’s wife. “Michael lived, breathed, and cared fiercely about the future of the Jewish community, both locally and worldwide, and he believed that true leadership requires personal investment, care, and love. He always looked for leaders who brought contagious energy and a personal touch to Jewish life. Jessica embodies that exact spirit, effortlessly blending her professional excellence with a genuine passion for grassroots community-building. Knowing that this award will support her continued growth brings immense joy to our family, as she truly represents the bright, collaborative future Michael always envisioned for us all.”

To learn more about how Federation works to engage and support future Jewish leaders, visit jewishinsandiego.org.

---

About Jewish Federation of San Diego

For nearly 90 years, Jewish Federation of San Diego has worked to ensure there will be a vibrant, caring, connected, and enduring Jewish community in San Diego, Israel, and around the world for generations to come. The nonprofit organization addresses the needs of the most vulnerable in the Jewish community; provides training and growth opportunities for future Jewish leaders; builds people-to-people connections with Jews in Israel and across the world; invests in increased security for all local Jewish institutions and much more. Federation also plays a vital convening role in our community, bringing partners and supporters to the table to tackle the most pressing Jewish issues that no one organization can address alone. For more information, visit jewishinsandiego.org.

---