Yitro: Exploring Perspective and Hospitality in Austin

In this post and its accompanying photos, Briana Holtzman and Teri McGuire from the Foundation for Jewish Camp (FJC) reflect on the third seminar of the fourth cohort of the Yitro Leadership Program, which is funded by The AVI CHAI Foundation. The program works with associate and assistant camp directors, with the goals of strengthening their leadership skills, with emphasis on their identities as Jewish leaders, in order to enhance Jewish culture and experience at camp. The program creates a strong network of peers for continuing collaboration and learning. More information about the Yitro program can be found here.

By: Briana Holtzman and Teri McGuire

The third seminar of the Yitro IV cohort took place in and around Austin, Texas from December 10–12. The Yitro community gathered to reflect on the myriad of ways that the themes of perspective (hashkafa) and hospitality enhance the quality of their work as middle managers.

Throughout the seminar, our cohort of camp professionals learned from Artist in Residence: Sarit Wishnevski, explored Austin’s quirky side, and challenged each other to consider their multiple perspectives they hold vis-à-vis their roles in building and sustaining their communities.

Sarit, a personal chef for many years, is well versed in the art of food and hospitality. Fellows were invited to get involved, discussing how hospitality shows up in their work and each taking a part in cooking a part of one of the seminar’s…