Meet Melissa Brill: A Conversation with Women’s Philanthropy’s New Board Chair

As Jewish Federation of San Diego begins a new year, we’re excited to welcome Melissa Brill as our 2026–2027 Women’s Philanthropy Board Chair. Women’s Philanthropy brings women together to strengthen Jewish life through leadership, philanthropy, and meaningful connection.

A dedicated member of the community, Melissa is passionate about building connection, strengthening Jewish life, and inspiring women to get involved. We asked her to share more about what inspires her, her vision for the future, and what she hopes to accomplish during her term as Board Chair.

What first inspired you to get involved with Women’s Philanthropy?

I wanted to be part of an organization with like-minded women who were making a difference in the local Jewish community. I wanted to influence the community for my children and the next generation. It is important to me that my children, now all young adults, see how valuable philanthropy is.

What excites you most about stepping into the role of Women’s Philanthropy Board Chair?

I’m excited to learn more about the prominent members of the San Diego Jewish community. I spent a lot of time in the JEWISHcolorado community and felt very comfortable because I knew the lifelong families, the legacies, and the events. Women’s Philanthropy in San Diego operates very differently, which has been great for me because it’s so much more collaborative here.

Why do you believe Women’s Philanthropy is such an important part of Federation’s work?

I think it’s very important for people to make any large community feel more relevant—and smaller—by joining a group or club. Women’s Philanthropy encourages and fosters relationships with people outside of the Board while creating a strong sense of connection, camaraderie, and friendship within the Board.

What makes Women’s Philanthropy unique within our Jewish community?

The Board works really hard to create meaningful and relevant events that support and engage the San Diego Jewish community. It offers women an opportunity to get involved and to meet women with similar values but from different backgrounds and places. It shows them what Federation does in San Diego and why that work is so valuable.

How can women support one another in building a stronger and more connected Jewish future?

We can invite more women to get involved, which is why Kesher is such an important initiative. Many people don’t have the time or interest in being on a board, but they still want to get involved and make a difference. Whether it’s learning about Holocaust education or Jewish life in Budapest, women flourish when we are together.

What is one goal or aspiration you have for Women’s Philanthropy during your term?

That when women in the San Diego Jewish community hear the word “Kesher,” they know it has to do with our initiative to create connection and community. I think we may need merch!

What’s a book, podcast, or piece of Jewish wisdom that has inspired you recently?

I read and listen to a lot. Probably the most inspirational as of late has been The Oppermanns by Lion Feuchtwanger. It was written in German (I am reading a translation) and published in 1933, so it describes, in real time, what was happening to the Jewish community in Berlin. It’s interesting, albeit sad, in the similarities to the antisemitism that’s happening now across the globe.

Looking Ahead

Melissa’s vision for Women’s Philanthropy is rooted in connection, community, and creating opportunities for more women to become engaged in Jewish life.

We look forward to the year ahead under her leadership and invite you to join us at an upcoming Women’s Philanthropy event. Whether you’re reconnecting with familiar faces or attending for the first time, you’ll find a welcoming place in our community.