JF&CS recently welcomed new board members, thanked retiring directors, and honored individuals for outstanding service at the agency’s Annual Meeting of the Board of Directors.
New Board Members
The three new board members come from impressive and diverse backgrounds:
- Leigh Colvin is a clinical neuropsychologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and an instructor of neurology at Harvard Medical School. Leigh has been an active member of the Services for Older Adults Advisory Committee at JF&CS, where she has played a strategic role in developing resources for families dealing with Parkinson’s disease. She has also generously provided free workshop training to clients and families, demonstrating her commitment to the community.
- Ed Feinberg is a retired retina surgeon and formerly served as professor and chair of ophthalmology at Boston University School of Medicine. Ed holds degrees from Mount Sinai School of Medicine and the Harvard School of Public Health. He currently serves on JF&CS’s Human Rights Committee, where he helps affirm and protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in the agency’s residential and day programs. His medical expertise and commitment to human rights make him a valuable addition to the board.
- Mara Riemer Goldstein brings decades of experience as a real estate professional, focusing on the management and development of commercial properties in the Greater Boston area. Mara is a dedicated volunteer at Family Table and serves on the Center for Basic Needs Assistance Advisory Committee. She also recently served as chair of the board at the JCC, where she has displayed her strong leadership and commitment to community service.
Retiring Board Members
The agency acknowledged the tremendous contributions of six retiring board members: Stephen Bernstein, Jill Cohen, Danielle Darish, Penny Goodman, Mike Levinger, and Wayne Ushman.
Stephen Bernstein has brought a unique blend of legal insight, strategic thinking, and compassion to the JF&CS board. He played a key role on the Compliance and Risk Management and Disabilities Services Committees, offering guidance on complex issues like HIPAA, insurance, and technology risk. We are grateful for his ability to lead with both empathy and business acumen, always elevating the voices of those with lived experience.
Jill Cohen's leadership, warmth, and dedication have left a lasting impact at JF&CS. She has been deeply involved in numerous areas of the agency’s work, including Holocaust services, mental health, and Jewish healing, and has been especially active on the Development Committee. Jill is celebrated for her enthusiastic participation in events and her ability to bring creativity and heart to everything she does, including co-chairing the 2018 Annual Gala, which raised over $1 million.
Penny Goodman has served JF&CS with energy, insight, and a deep commitment to the agency’s mission. Known for her sharp thinking and creative approach, Penny played a pivotal role in strengthening donor engagement during her tenure as Development Chair. Her leadership was marked by a hands-on style—writing letters, making calls, and always finding new ways to connect people to the organization’s work. She has inspired others through her example, encouraging fellow board members to step up and get involved.
Mike Levinger has brought a rare combination of technical expertise, strategic insight, and deep compassion in his role on the board. As chair of the IT Committee, he has played a critical role in guiding the agency’s efforts to modernize its technology infrastructure and address long-standing challenges. His leadership extended beyond IT, with active roles on the Finance and Development Committees.
Wayne Ushman brought a steady hand and deep financial expertise during a time of significant transition at JF&CS. As treasurer and chair of the Finance Committee, he played a key role in stabilizing the agency’s finances, working closely with leadership to implement critical changes and foster a culture of accountability. Colleagues praised his calm, analytical approach and his ability to lead with both strength and kindness. Hailing from Central Massachusetts, Wayne also served as a vital link to the Worcester Jewish community, helping to integrate its services into the broader agency.
President’s Award
Danielle Darish was honored with the Betsy Gross President’s Award in recognition of her extraordinary commitment and impact as a JF&CS board member. Her service has included roles on the Nominating and Development Committees, chairing the Center for Early Relationship Support Advisory Committee, and facilitating a weekly parent support group—work that reflects both her professional background in social work and her deep personal dedication. Her generosity, insight, and hands-on involvement have made a lasting difference at JF&CS.
