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Starlite Soirée – Federation Women’s Leadership Celebration
May 27 @ 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
The Starlite Soirée is the 2026 incarnation of the Federation’s longstanding annual event uniting our Jewish community in celebration of women’s philanthropy and leadership, culminating in the presentation of the Judith Chapman Memorial Leadership Award to Susie Sorkin.
This year, we will be hosting the Starlite Soirée in the newly renovated lounge and the Beacon Grand Hotel. We’re delighted to be joined by Jackie Tohn, the outspoken Jewish advocate who plays the hilarious sister-in-law of “The Hot Rabbi” in Netflix’s acclaimed Nobody Wants This. The event will start with light appetizers and mingling, followed by a moderated conversation with Jackie and a strolling dinner starting at 7 pm.
So, put on your best Night Out Glamour (which goes for the men too!) and join us for what’s sure to be a memorable night celebrating the power of women who make a positive impact in our Jewish community.
Speakers
Jackie Tohn
Jackie Tohn is a multitalented actress, writer, stand-up comic, and show creator who stars in the hit Netflix series "Nobody Wants This." The rom-com, which explores Jewish culture and identity, has remained at the top of streamer’s most-watched chart since its arrival on Netflix and was recently renewed for a second season. Jackie played “Melrose” on the hit Netflix series "G.L.O.W" and is the host of the top-rated Netflix cooking competition, "Best Leftovers Ever." She can also be seen in Bill Burr’s feature "Old Dads" starring alongside Bill Burr, Bobby Cannavale, and Bokeem Woodbine in the ensemble comedy.
Honorees
Susie Sorkin
A lifelong philanthropist, Susie is committed to helping nonprofits and the communities they serve flourish. Her deep experience in organizational leadership, nonprofit governance, marketing, strategic planning and development has been a boon to the many organizations she’s touched. Her sterling resume includes serving on the Jewish Federation Bay Area Board for many years in multiple roles, the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) Board and their Israel & Overseas committee as Chair of the Designated Allocations Task Force, and the Israel Emergency Response Committee. She also recently joined the Bay Area JCRC Board and became the Vice Chair of Jewish California, formerly Jewish Public Affairs Committee of California (JPAC). Susie is also a proud member of the JFNA National Women’s Philanthropy Board and a Ruby Lion of Judah.