Jewish National Fund (JNF-USA) will host its annual National Conference in the Grand Canyon State October 26-28, bringing over 1,000 committed Jewish and Israeli leaders, philanthropists, and students from across the U.S. and Israel to the Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, AZ to learn about the key issues of the day over a powerful and impactful weekend.

“We are excited to welcome Jewish National Fund’s supporters to this year’s National Conference in Phoenix for an unforgettable and meaningful weekend,” said Conference Chairs Toni Dusik and Marc Kelman. “The 2018 experience will be bigger than ever, with diverse speakers showcasing and highlighting how Jewish National Fund makes a difference in Israel.”

This year’s line-up of speakers emphasizes Jewish National Fund’s critical work in Israel, and is sure to inspire and spur emotion. Speakers include: Marlee Matlin, Academy Award-winning actress and activist; Dr. Deborah E. Lipstadt, Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish History and Holocaust Studies at Emory University; Bari Weiss, writer and editor for The New York Times op-ed page; Izzy Ezagui, author and former Israel Defense Forces Commander.

Conference highlights will include the “Israel Expo,” an interactive display of Jewish National Fund’s many partners in Israel. This visually stimulating and informative experience will bring the diverse scope of JNF-USA’s work in Israel up close and personal. Participants will get a taste of Israel’s culinary scene and a glimpse into JNF-USA’s new venture with the “Chop and Chat Face-Off Cooking Competition….Israeli Style,” with celebrity chefs Jamie Geller and Lior Lev Sercarz, owner of La Boite. JNF-USA will also examine the subject deeper with the special session, “Israel’s Water Challenges and Opportunities.” Water and environmental experts from Israel and the U.S. will address the next steps being taken to confront and mitigate today’s global water challenges.

A major component of Jewish National Fund’s National Conference is the College Summit, where over 200 students from across the U.S. will gather and focus on how better to educate and work with fellow students, to promote their connection to our Jewish homeland.

To register for Jewish National Fund’s National Conference, contact Sarah Cohen at Scohen@jnf.org or 212.879.9305 x208.