The United Synagogue

US President Bids Farewwell At The House Of Lords

PRESS RELEASE

London,
25th May 2011


US PRESIDENT BIDS FAREWELL AT THE HOUSE OF LORDS

Outgoing US President Simon Hochhauser was honoured this week at a reception held at the House of Lords. Over 150 people - community professionals, lay leaders, family and friends – gathered to hear words of gratitude for Dr Hochhauser from the Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks and United Synagogue Chief Executive, Jeremy Jacobs.

It was Dr Hochhauser’s vision during his six years as President that ensured the US strategy of engaging and transforming our membership through Jewish Living, Learning and Caring, has been able to flourish.

In his speech, Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks highlighted some of Dr Hochhauser’s achievements including presiding over a flourishing Tribe, his backing of the new Singers prayer book and support in developing a new prayer book for festivals. The Chief Rabbi also focused on his important role in the Shabbaton Choir and his regular and active visits to US communities and members.

The Chief Rabbi concluded with a farewell message for Dr Hochhauser. He said: “It has been a privilege, as well as a personal pleasure, to have worked with you during these past six years. You have carried out some great, great work for the US and we wish you a life full of happiness and joy.”

In his response, Dr Hochhauser’s touched on his proudest achievements; watching the US go through a remarkable change including the progress of Tribe, advances made by the Beth Din and Kashrut division; and the creation of US Chesed which is improving lives of people both in and outside of the US.
At the end of his speech Dr Hochhauser gave thanks to his family and close associates and presented special trophies to the US lay leaders; Geoffrey Hartnell, Peter Zinkin, Stephen Pack, Russell Tenzer, Irene Leeman and Dalia Cramer.

Dr Hochhauser said; “It is very difficult to part from this great organisation and I still have a few shuls to visit before my term is up! Every Jew has a responsibility for each other and what I especially love about the US is that it is the only orthodox community that welcomes all.”

Closing the proceedings, US Chief Executive Jeremy Jacobs thanked Dr Hochhauser for all his support and hard work during his Presidency. He said: “Simon has been a Trustee of the United Synagogue for the past 13 years and I have had the honour and privilege of working with him for many of those years, firstly as a co-Trustee, and more recently as Chief Executive.”

“Without question Simon has been an amazing asset for the community. His tremendous Jewish knowledge, business expertise and basic common sense have all ensured the US has developed beyond all recognition during that time. Personally, I am so grateful for all his support and advice during my time as Chief Executive. Whilst there are many legacies that Simon leaves perhaps the most important is a US that is focussing on inclusiveness and modernity, whilst maintaining our proud legacy and authenticity. We truly owe Simon an enormous debt of gratitude.”


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EDITORS’ NOTES: -

Photograph – (L-R) Chief Rabbi Lord Sacks, Simon Hochhauser, US President, Lord Jonathan Kestenbaum

For further information, please contact:

Leonie Furman
The PR Office
Work: 020 7284 6969
Email: us@theproffice.com

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