Every year, Jewish Peninsula identifies and recognizes a young leader who devotes time and energy to better the Jewish community of the Virginia Peninsula. Named in honor of Barbara Rosenbaum, a pillar of our community and whose tireless dedication to Jewish Peninsula has spanned decades, this leadership award embodies her passion and vision of a strong, vibrant Jewish community. The Young Leadership awards acknowledge these role models while seeking to stimulate their continuing participation in Jewish communal affairs. This annual award comes with a stipend to participate in an immersive Jewish leadership experience such as participating in an overseas JFNA mission or attending the JFNA General Assembly.  

Eligibility:

Eligible candidates should be between the ages of 25 and 45 and have the following qualifications:

• A distinguished record of participation in Jewish Peninsula;
• Meaningful giving to the Jewish Peninsula's annual campaign;
• Demonstrated interest for future growth within the leadership ranks of Jewish Peninsula.

Do you know someone who deserves this special recognition?
Submit a nomination form no later than April 15, 2026.

Past Recipients:
2025 - Holly Vance
2024 - Mariel Focseneanu

Established in 1959 in memory of beloved and outstanding humanitarians and leaders, the Theodore H. and Esther Beskin Memorial Scholarship Award is given annually to a worthy local Jewish senior high school student. The recipient is selected on the basis of outstanding achievement and diligence in academic, personal, and community endeavors, as well as other pertinent criteria.

Please email any Beskin Scholarship questions to Carmela Malkin Kuhn, Director of Education Development.

The application deadline is April 30, 2026.  

2025 Recipient - Kaia Henderson