During a particularly difficult time in our school’s history, when Jewish Community Day School was struggling to keep its doors open, community leaders were brought in to seek out a path forward. Among them was a former Jewish Federation of Greater New Orleans board chair, pediatrician, and local television personality Dr. Michael Wasserman. Mike’s own kids were already out of the house by then, but he was committed to Jewish education, and the spirit of our little school captured his heart. His engagement with the school grew and grew, including serving as board chair from 2016-2018, then leading the search to find a new head of school in 2019.  

 

When his term as immediate past chair ended, we were amidst the throes of a global pandemic, and he became a special medical advisor to the JCDS Board of Trustees Executive Committee. His association garnered special attention from Ochsner’s task force for reopening schools, enabling us to work closely with them to become a steadfast example of how to be together safely during COVID. Along the way, Mike was on the phone with school constantly, providing advice and support. 

 

That attention isn’t limited to times of pandemic. Mike continues to be just a call away, having just recommitted to another term as a member-at-large of our Executive Committee. He has advised on countless photographs of children’s rashes, cultivated donor relationships, and led by example in soliciting on behalf of Jewish Endowment Foundation’s endowment drive for the constituent agencies. He is a font of wise counsel and spare tennis balls. 

 

We are privileged to honor Dr. Michael Wasserman this year, following shortly on the heels of his retirement from his pediatric practice. Far from settling into a rocking chair, however, Mike continues to work tirelessly and with great humility on behalf of the school, and we are thrilled to celebrate him at our annual Jazz Brunch this February.