Women’s Philanthropy
Woman of Valor Award
Celebrating women who embody the qualities of an Eyshet Chayal – a Woman of Valor.
Overview
Since 1956, Women’s Philanthropy and its predecessor programs have played a vital role in the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. The Woman of Valor Award honors extraordinary women whose leadership and generosity helped build the foundation for our work today and continue to inspire our future.
Rooted in the Jewish ideal of Eyshet Chayil, a Woman of Valor, this award celebrates women who lead with purpose, integrity, and heart. Honorees are role models and trailblazers in women’s giving and community building. Through their selfless commitment, they embody the mission of Women’s Philanthropy and strengthen Jewish life in Milwaukee with passion and joy.
Criteria
Eligibility
The nominee must be an MJF Annual Campaign donor in good standing at the Lion of Judah Giving Society level or above.
Campaign Leadership
The nominee must currently serve or have previously served as a campaign solicitor for the Milwaukee Jewish Federation or Women’s Philanthropy.
Community Involvement
The nominee demonstrates leadership, past or present, within the Milwaukee Jewish Federation, Women’s Philanthropy, and/or other Jewish community organizations.
“Personally, we both have been immensely enriched by the experiences we’ve gained through leadership training, engagement with Jewish communities worldwide, and insights into the extensive impact of Federations on Jewish lives.”
– Idy Goodman and Marlene Lauwasser, 2023
Previous Award Recipients
The inaugural award was presented in 2023
Marlene Lauwasser and Idy Goodman, 2023
Sue Strait, 2024
Judi Ketten, 2025
Connect
Deb Carneol Fendrich serves as Senior Director of Affinities and Women’s Philanthropy at the Milwaukee Jewish Federation. In her Women’s Philanthropy role, she leads strategy and execution for engagement, leadership development, and campaign efforts, overseeing volunteer leadership and donor stewardship. She also guides signature programs such as VALOR and International Women’s Day and stewards the growth of Women’s Philanthropy giving societies including Lions of Judah and Pomegranate Societies.
In her Affinities role, Deb partners with and supports the Federation’s Affinity Directors, helping them execute their visions through strategic guidance around campaign, engagement, and leadership development, while fostering cross-affinity collaboration and building strong lay leadership pipelines.
Outside of work, Deb enjoys singing, listening to audiobooks, and spending time with friends, her husband Ben, their daughters Logan and Micah, and their dog, Maya.
