By Elizabeth Johnson
Over the past year, The Charlotte Jewish News has introduced readers to graduates of Bernstein Leadership Group (BLG), whose leadership and service are helping shape the future of Jewish Charlotte. While each story has been unique, they have shared a common thread: a deep commitment to strengthening our community and investing in its Jewish future.
For more than two decades, BLG, a strategic initiative of Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte (JFGC), has cultivated emerging leaders through an immersive 18-month experience exploring the organizations, relationships and issues shaping Jewish life throughout our community.
Participants gain a deeper appreciation of Jewish Charlotte, develop leadership skills and build lasting relationships with peers who share a commitment to making a difference. They leave with the knowledge, perspective and network to help lead our community for years to come.
“The profound impact of our leadership development program often extends well beyond the classroom,” said Megan Harkavy, director of education and engagement, JFGC. “Many of our alumni go on to serve on nonprofit boards, chair committees, launch new initiatives and take on key leadership roles across our community.”
BLG welcomes individuals from a wide range of professional backgrounds and life experiences. Whether someone is already volunteering or looking for a meaningful way to become more engaged, the program offers an opportunity to learn, grow and lead alongside peers who are equally invested in Jewish Charlotte’s future. And come this fall, a new class of leaders will have the chance to begin that same journey.
Leadership is not defined by a title. It begins with a willingness to learn, engage and help shape what comes next. For those ready to take that next step, BLG is more than a leadership program. It is an investment in the future of Jewish Charlotte and in the people who will help lead it.
Applications for the next BLG cohort will open Oct. 12, 2026, and close Oct. 30, 2026. Interviews will be held in mid-November, with acceptance notifications sent in mid-December. The new cohort will kick off Feb. 28, 2027.
For additional information and application details, contact Megan Harkavy at megan.harkavy@jewishcharlotte.org
