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A look inside the Jewish American Summit

A glimpse into the conversations, community, and energy that defined the 2025 summit.

About the Jewish American Summit

The Jewish American Summit is an annual gathering that brings together leaders across culture, business, advocacy, and community for thoughtful dialogue and meaningful connection.

Now entering its third year, the summit has become a trusted space for important conversations, shared responsibility, and forward-looking leadership at a pivotal moment for Jewish life in America.

JAS 2026 Speakers

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Steve Hilton

California Governor Candidate

Vice Chairman, United Talent Agency

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Stella Inger-Escobedo

Award-Winning Journalist

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Adam Millstein

Philanthropist/Real Estate Investor

National Reporter/Anchor, MS NOW

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Zach Sage Fox

Founder, Think Again/Filmmaker

Reserve Officer in Special Unit 669, IDF

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Marissa Streit

Chief Executive Officer, PragerU

CEO/Chairman, Universe Holdings

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Yossi Farro

Educator/Activist

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Tim Gaspar

2026 LA City Council Candidate

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Tanya Tsikanovsky

West Hollywood City Council Candidate

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Dillon Hosier

Founding CEO, ICAN

Emmy-Nominated Journalist

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Erez Goldman

Executive Director Southwest Region, Israel Bonds

Director of Legal Policy & Litigation, StandWithUs

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Ambassador Mike Huckabee

US Ambassador to Israel

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Rabbi Jack Melul

Rabbi Jack
Melul

Co-Executive Director, aishLIT

Jewish American Summit Speaker - Shira Melul

Shira
Melul

Co-Executive Director, aishLIT

President & CEO, Jewish Federation LA

Past Summit Voices & Highlights

Across 2024 and 2025, the Jewish American Summit has featured an extraordinary roster of cultural, civic, and community voices — reflecting the depth and breadth of perspectives shaping Jewish life today.

Speakers listed are past participants from the 2024 and 2025 Jewish American Summits. 

Why 2026 Matters

This moment calls for leadership, clarity, and connection.

A Beautiful Westside Los Angeles Setting

The 2026 Jewish American Summit will take place in a thoughtfully selected Westside Los Angeles location, designed to foster openness, conversation, and connection in a light-filled, inspiring environment.

Register Today

JAS sponsors include

Mount Sinai Memorial Parks and Mortuaries Logo
Jewish Federation LA Logo
The Foundation Logo

Are you a Young Professionals?

Join our Layla Lavan Young Professionals Mixer following the Summit
Sunday, August 30, 2026 | 5:30pm – 8:30pm
DJ | Drinks | Special Appearances 

$40 early bird special available for a limited time

Dr. Gad Saad

Professor/Author

Dr. Gad Saad is an evolutionary behavioral scientist, bestselling author, and public intellectual whose work explores human behavior through the lens of evolutionary psychology. A former professor at Concordia University for over three decades, he is the author of multiple bestselling books, including The Parasitic Mind and the #1 New York Times bestseller Suicidal Empathy, and hosts The Saad Truth, reaching millions worldwide.

Mosab Yousef, the “Green Prince”

Author/Speaker/Activist

Mosab Hassan Yousef, known as the “Green Prince,” is a former Hamas insider, bestselling author, and internationally recognized speaker. The son of a founding Hamas leader, he made the extraordinary decision to become an undercover operative for Israel’s internal security service, helping prevent terrorist attacks and save countless lives. Today, he speaks around the world about terrorism, extremism, human rights, and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, offering a rare firsthand perspective shaped by his remarkable journey.

Ambassador Yechiel Leiter

Israeli Ambassador to US

Ambassador Yechiel Leiter is Israel’s Ambassador to the United States and a veteran diplomat, scholar, and public policy leader. Previously Chief of Staff to Benjamin Netanyahu during his tenure as Finance Minister, he has spent decades shaping Israeli policy and strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship. He brings a unique perspective on Israel’s security, diplomacy, and the future of the Middle East.

Steve Hilton

California Governor Candidate

Steve Hilton is an entrepreneur, bestselling author, television host, and candidate for Governor of California. A former senior advisor to British Prime Minister David Cameron, he later immigrated to the United States, taught at Stanford University, founded Golden Together, and hosted Fox News’ The Next Revolution. Drawing on his experience in business, media, and public policy, Steve is a leading voice on government reform, economic opportunity, and the future of California.

Dr. Sheila Nazarian

Doctor/Activist

Dr. Sheila Nazarian is a board-certified plastic surgeon, entrepreneur, television personality, and outspoken advocate. Founder of Nazarian Plastic Surgery and several successful healthcare and skincare ventures, she is also known for her role on Netflix’s Emmy-nominated Skin Decision: Before and After. Through her public speaking and widely followed social media platforms, Dr. Nazarian champions truth, advocates for Israel and the Jewish community, and inspires audiences around the world.

Jay Sures

Vice Chairman, United Talent Agency

Jay Sures is Vice Chairman and Managing Director of United Talent Agency (UTA), one of the world’s leading entertainment and media companies. He oversees UTA’s television, news, broadcasting, and speakers divisions, representing many of the nation’s most influential journalists, broadcasters, and cultural leaders. A member of the University of California Board of Regents, Sures has been a leading voice in confronting antisemitism on campus and strengthening the Jewish community, while also chairing the boards overseeing Los Alamos and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories.

Stella Inger-Escobedo

Award-Winning Journalist

Stella Inger- Escobedo is an Emmy Award-winning journalist, former mainstream media anchor, and founder of Stella News. After two decades in broadcast journalism, she launched her own platform to report on politics, culture, and current events. A Soviet Jewish refugee, she is dedicated to fighting for America’s Judeo-Christian values, exposing media bias, and bringing attention to the issues shaping the nation’s future.

Adam Millstein

Philanthropist/Real Estate Investor

Adam Milstein is an Israeli-American philanthropist, real estate investor, and community leader. An IDF veteran, Technion graduate, and USC MBA, he is Managing Partner at Hager Pacific Properties. With his wife, Gila, he co-founded the Adam & Gila Milstein Family Foundation to protect American values, combat antisemitism, hate, and bigotry, and strengthen the U.S.-Israel alliance.

Erielle Reshef

National Reporter/Anchor, MS NOW

Erielle Reshef is a National Reporter and Anchor for MS NOW (formerly MSNBC) and a former National Correspondent for ABC News, where she appeared regularly on Good Morning America, World News Tonight, and Nightline. An Emmy Award-winning journalist, she has covered major breaking news around the world and is recognized for her reporting on politics, public health, antisemitism, Jewish life, and the Middle East. She holds a master’s degree in Diplomacy and Conflict Studies from Reichman University in Israel.

Zach Sage Fox

Founder, Think Again/Filmmaker

Zach Sage Fox is an award-winning filmmaker, media entrepreneur, and founder of THINK AGAIN, a nonprofit dedicated to combating misinformation through viral digital content. Following the October 7 attacks, he launched Facts for Peace, an initiative whose videos countering Hamas propaganda and antisemitism have reached millions and been featured by the Israeli government, the United Nations, and the U.S. Congress. Through storytelling and social media, he has become a leading voice in the fight against online extremism and antisemitism.

Melanie Shiraz

Miss Israel

Melanie Shiraz is Miss Israel 2025–2026, a former data scientist and tech entrepreneur, and one of the most internationally recognized Jewish advocates of the past year. Having represented Israel on the global stage while navigating unprecedented public scrutiny, coordinated disinformation campaigns, and antisemitism, she brings a rare combination of lived experience and analytical expertise to the challenges facing Israel today. Born in Israel and shaped by years spent in the Diaspora—including as a Jewish student leader at UC Berkeley—Melanie offers a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, public opinion, media, and Jewish identity. Today, she advises, speaks, and advocates internationally on combating antisemitism, strengthening Israel’s global standing, and winning the battle for hearts and minds.

Captain Y

Reserve Officer in Special Unit 669, IDF

Captain Y (Res.) Reserve Officer in Special Unit 669, the Israeli Air Force’s elite Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), airborne rescue, and medical evacuation unit. Throughout his service, he has taken part in dozens of high-risk missions, rescuing wounded soldiers and civilians under fire and bringing them safely home. Captain Y was among the Unit 669 operators who participated in Operation Arnon,the historic hostage rescue mission that freed Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv from Hamas captivity. His service reflects the unit’s unwavering commitment to its mission: risking everything to save lives and ensuring that no one is left behind.

Marissa Streit

Chief Executive Officer, PragerU

Marissa Streit is the Chief Executive Officer of PragerU, the nation’s largest edu-tainment nonprofit, where she has transformed it into one of the most influential education media organizations, reaching more than two billion annual video views. She is also the host of Real Talk, PragerU’s long-form interview series featuring leading voices in politics, culture, and education. A former educator, Marissa is dedicated to advancing American history, civics, and values through innovative educational media.

Henry Manoucheri

CEO/Chairman, Universe Holdings

Henry Manoucheri, Founder and CEO of Universe Holdings, has built one of California’s largest real estate investment firms with $1.5B AUM and 3,000 units. Immigrating from Iran under the Shah’s regime, he has become a major investor in Israel and a devoted philanthropist, deeply committed to supporting Israel and strengthening Jewish community organizations worldwide.

Yossi Farro

Educator/Activist

Yossi Farro is a Jewish educator and one of the most recognizable young voices inspiring Jewish pride through the mitzvah of tefillin. Known for wrapping tefillin with influential founders, investors, entertainers, and public figures, his videos have inspired millions to reconnect with their Jewish identity. Through social media and personal outreach, he is helping spark a new generation of Jewish engagement.

Tim Gaspar

2026 LA City Council Candidate

Timothy Gaspar is a businessman, community leader, and candidate for Los Angeles City Council representing the West San Fernando Valley. After building one of the region’s largest independent insurance agencies, he retired to focus on public service and civic leadership. A longtime supporter of local nonprofits and education, Tim serves on the boards of several leading Los Angeles organizations and is the founder of the Timothy Gaspar Entrepreneurship Scholarship at California State University, Northridge.

Tanya Tsikanovsky

West Hollywood City Council Candidate

Tanya Tsikanovsky is Head of Development & Operations at Think Again, Senior Advisor at Combat Antisemitism Movement, host of the Highly Jewish Podcast, Fellow at Merage Fellowship by Nas Daily, and a candidate for West Hollywood City Council. An unapologetic Zionist, Tanya has become a leading voice in the fight against antisemitism and online extremism, using media, advocacy, and public engagement to defend Israel, strengthen the Jewish community, and promote democratic and American values.

Dillon Hosier

Founding CEO - Israeli-American Civic Action Network

Dillon Hosier is the founding CEO of the Israeli-American Civic Action Network (ICAN), a 501(c)(4) uniting Israelis and pro-Israel Americans to combat antisemitism and strengthen the U.S.–Israel alliance at the state and local levels. A former political officer for Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Los Angeles, he built ICAN to counter anti-Israel and anti-American movements where they organize: city councils, school boards, and state legislatures. Under his leadership, ICAN has stopped hostile legislation, secured IHRA adoptions, won school board races, and built the political intelligence tools the pro-Israel community needs to act decisively.

Jacki Karsh

Six-Time Emmy-Nominated Journalist

Jacki Karsh is a six-time Emmy-nominated journalist, philanthropist, and leading Jewish media voice. For over a decade, she has covered humanitarian and social impact issues on LA36’s LA County Channel and interviewed global leaders across politics, business, and culture. Since October 7, her commentaries have appeared in major outlets, and she has moderated 70+ panels on Israel, antisemitism, and misinformation. She founded the Karsh Fellowship for Journalism and serves on multiple Jewish community boards.

Erez Goldman

Executive Director Southwest Region, Israel Bonds

Erez Goldman is the Executive Director of the Southwest Region for Israel Bonds, where he has driven over $1 billion in annual U.S. sales since 2018, fostering investments that bolster Israel’s economy and innovation. Previously, as Regional Director for the Israeli-American Council (IAC) from 2015 to 2018, he strengthened community ties in Greater Los Angeles. Erez is an IDF Veteran and a proud father to three beautiful children, two of whom are IDF Lone Soldiers today. 

Carly Gammill

Director of Legal Policy & Litigation, StandWithUs Saidoff Law

Carly Gammill is a constitutional litigator and Director of Legal Policy & Litigation at StandWithUs Saidoff Law, where she works on issues including freedom of speech, religious liberty, and combating antisemitism. Previously, she founded and led the StandWithUs Center for Combating Antisemitism. For more than a decade, Carly has worked with students, educators, and communities to address antisemitism on campuses, in courtrooms, and at the United Nations, helping individuals understand and protect their legal rights.

Ambassador Mike Huckabee

US Ambassador to Israel

Ambassador Mike Huckabee is the United States Ambassador to Israel, former Governor of Arkansas, bestselling author, and longtime national television host. A leading voice on faith, public policy, and the U.S.-Israel relationship, he has spent decades advocating for Israel and the Jewish people. As Ambassador, he brings a unique perspective on the evolving Middle East and the future of the U.S.-Israel alliance.

Rabbi Noah Farkas

President/CEO, The Jewish Federation

Rabbi Noah Farkas is President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and was named by The Forward as one of America’s most inspiring rabbis. Formerly of Valley Beth Shalom, he is a civic leader who helped secure $5 billion for housing and services for the vulnerable and served as Chair of LA’s Homelessness Services Authority. A Navy Reserve chaplain and pro-Israel advocate, he is recognized nationally for innovative Jewish leadership.

Bill Maher

Comedian/TV Host/Political Commentator

Bill Maher, host of HBO’s Real Time for over 20 years and formerly Politically Incorrect, has been a defining voice in political comedy for more than 25 years. With 42 Emmy nominations and one win as executive producer of VICE, he’s also a bestselling author and filmmaker (Religulous). His podcast Club Random debuted at #1 on Apple Podcasts. Maher continues to perform nationwide stand-up, with 13 HBO specials, while shaping political and cultural conversations. 

Senator John Fetterman

US Senator for Pennsylvania

John Fetterman has served as U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania since 2023. Previously mayor of Braddock (2006–2019) and Pennsylvania’s Lieutenant Governor (2019–2023), he has dedicated his career to fighting for forgotten communities. Inspired by his GED students to enter public service, he worked to create jobs, reduce gun violence, and revitalize Braddock. As Senator, he champions economic justice, criminal justice reform, equal protection, and is a strong supporter of Israel and Jewish community organizations.

Montana Tucker

Singer/Activist

Montana Tucker is an award-winning actress, singer, dancer, and social media activist with nearly 14 million followers, primarily Gen Z. A passionate advocate against antisemitism and hate, she has been honored by leading organizations including FIDF, IAC, Magen David Adom, and WIZO, as well as by NYC Mayor Eric Adams and the City of Beverly Hills. Her acclaimed docu-series How To: Never Forget, chronicling her family’s Holocaust history, earned a Webby Award nomination and widespread media coverage. Featured on Good Morning America, CNN, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Variety, and Forbes, Montana continues to educate and inspire worldwide. 

Matisyahu

Singer/Songwriter

Matisyahu is a world-renowned artist whose music blends reggae, hip hop, and rock with deep spiritual themes. For over 20 years, he has brought Jewish identity, mysticism, and faith into the global spotlight, inspiring audiences with his authenticity and message of redemption. With eight studio albums, including his latest Ancient Child, Matisyahu continues to explore Jewish history, spirituality, and unity, using music as a bridge between tradition and the modern world.

Yoav Gallant

Former Minister of Defense of Israel

General Yoav Gallant has devoted nearly five decades to Israel’s security, most recently serving as Minister of Defense during one of the nation’s most challenging crises. A decorated IDF veteran, he commanded elite units including Shayetet 13, the Gaza Division, and the Southern Command, and served as Military Secretary to Prime Minister Ariel Sharon. After retiring as Major General, he held senior ministerial roles and co-founded FIDF’s IMPACT Scholarship Program, advancing education for IDF veterans. 

Emily Austin

Broadcaster and Commentator

Emily Austin is an American TV personality and host of The Emily Austin Show. A former MTV anchor, Miss Universe judge, and current sports broadcaster for DAZN, she has excelled across entertainment and media. Frequently seen on major networks commenting on U.S. and Middle East politics, she was recognized at the White House by the President and Vice President for her election work. Emily also owns People’s Beauty, a South Korean skincare brand sold online and in stores. 

Rebecca DeMornay

Actress & Activist

Rising to fame in the early 1980s, Rebecca De Mornay’s screen debut was in the classic film “Risky Business,” in which she played a street-wise call-girl to an impressionable Tom Cruise. In her subsequent 55+ roles on stage and screen she has consistently been singled out by critics as an actress of striking intensity, range, and skill. With a career spanning over four decades, De Mornay continues to be a dynamic presence in the entertainment world, admired for her talent, beauty, and enduring appeal. Upcoming films include “Gentleman Thief” opposite John Travolta and “The Up and Comer” with Noah Emmerich.

Shabbos Kestenbaum

Activist/Harvard Alum

Shabbos Kestenbaum is a PragerU political commentator and student activist known for his landmark lawsuit against Harvard University. He is a regular contributor on national media, has testified multiple times in front of the United States Congress as well as the Israeli Knesset, and lectures internationally on American politics and Jewish communal issues.

Mayor Sharona R. Nazarian, PsyD

Mayor of Beverly Hills

Mayor Sharona Nazarian, PsyD, elected to the Beverly Hills City Council in 2022, is the first Iranian American woman to serve as Mayor (2025–2026). A lifelong resident and community leader, she champions public safety, unity, business innovation, and inclusivity. An outspoken advocate against antisemitism, she has launched initiatives like BHPD Live Link, BH Fire Watch, and Never Again Is Now. Mayor Nazarian also promotes mental health, cultural celebration, and bridge-building. 

Roz Rothstein

Co-founder/CEO, StandWithUs

Roz Rothstein, daughter of Holocaust survivors, is the co-founder and CEO of StandWithUs, an international, non-partisan education organization working on six continents. StandWithUs fights antisemitism, supports Israel, and educates hundreds of thousands of students annually. Its social media reaches tens of millions weekly. Previously, Rothstein was a Family Therapist in California for two decades. Since its inception, Forward Magazine twice named her among the 50 most influential Jews in America, and the Jerusalem Post twice named her among the 50 most influential Jews in the world. 

Rabbi Aaron Lerner

Jewish Community Foundation CEO

Rabbi Aaron Lerner became President and CEO of the Jewish Community Foundation of Los Angeles in 2023. In his first two years, The Foundation attracted $290 million in contributions, distributed $385 million in grants with 1,400 families, and grew assets to $1.5 billion—earning him recognition among the Los Angeles Business Journal’s 500 most influential leaders. A former UCLA Hillel executive director, Lerner is a noted Jewish organizational builder, author, and advocate for Israel.

Rabbi Steve Burg

Aish CEO

Rabbi Steven Burg is the CEO of Aish, a global Jewish institute, and the Chairman of Aish Ha’am, a new party in the World Zionist Congress. Rabbi Burg also serves on the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency. Prior to Aish, he was Eastern Director of the Simon Wiesenthal Center, where he oversaw the Museum of Tolerance in New York City and contributed to the center’s fight against antisemitism.

Liora Rez

Founder, StopAntiSemitism

Liora Rez is the founder and Executive Director of StopAntisemitism, which she launched in 2018 to hold antisemites accountable and ensure real consequences for their actions. With a background in neuroscience and human behavior, as well as expertise in digital marketing, she has built strategies that disrupt antisemitic platforms and narratives. Under her leadership, StopAntisemitism now reaches nearly half a billion people monthly and has driven arrests, expulsions, firings, and lasting accountability nationwide. 

Tomer Peretz

Artist & Activist

Tomer Peretz, an Israeli-American artist born in Jerusalem and based in Los Angeles, creates bold works exploring trauma, identity, and healing. A former IDF combat soldier, he channels his PTSD into art that fosters collective resilience. In 2023, he launched The 8 Project, an art-based healing initiative for trauma survivors. In 2024, he became the first Artist-in-Residence at the Museum of Tolerance, creating ART WILL S8T YOU FREE with 850 October 7th survivors. 

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