Join us in celebrating the 2024-25 Board and honoring this year’s exceptional leaders and award recipients.
MEET OUR AWARDEES
PAST PRESIDENT RENEE KARP, Hannah G. Solomon Award
For her entire life, Renee Karp has been a inspiration for others and a driver of progres in the community. Renee moved to Dallas in 1975 when her husband, David, joined SMU’s Music Department. With a master’s degree in education, she taught at Akiba Academy and later at Temple Emanu-El for 33 years. By 1980, Renee was a part of the National Council of Jewish Women, holding various leadership roles, including section president from 2018-2020. Now, she is on the National Board.
Renee Karp has been involved in many organizations focused on Jewish education and she is currently serving in the City of Dallas Senior Affairs Commission for District 11. Outside of her career, Renee is a mother and grandmother and enjoys reading, music, cooking, and gardening.
She is a valuable part of our world. Congratulations, Renee!
PAST PRESIDENT JONI COHAN, Lifetime Achievment Award
Joni Yellin Cohan, a fervent social justice advocate, has significantly impacted the National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) and Dallas community. After relocating from Houston to Austin for her psychology degree and then to Dallas with her husband, Joni ascended to NCJW’s presidency and Texas State Public Affairs Cochair, championing causes like reproductive justice and LGBTQ rights.
Joni has consistently assumed leadership roles with NCJW Dallas, including heading the Research and Development Committee. The committee’s work has resulted in two new Dallas projects: Women’s Access to Comprehensive Health Services (WACHS) and Food+Fit=Fun.
Her leadership also extended to other organizations such as the Texas Freedom Network Board, Literacy Achieves Board, and The Texas Women Foundation.
Joni truly embodies the essence of the NCJW Dallas Lifetime Achievement Award. This prestigious honor reflects her enduring commitment and significant impact.
Congratulations!
Janis Levine Music Make-a-Difference Award
HELEN FRANK
(Photo courtesy Linda Winski)
Helen Frank has been a dedicated volunteer at NCJW Dallas for over two decades, inspired by her faith and the powerful effects of community service. Following her mother’s example, Helen has made significant contributions in non-profit management, including key roles such as Executive Director for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and the National Kidney Foundation in Memphis.
After moving to Dallas, Helen was inspired by the commitment of NCJW’s volunteers and took on numerous roles. These included Vice President of Public Affairs, Development, and Communications, co-chair of the Birthday Luncheon and Awards Committee, chair of the Installation and Awards Luncheon, and volunteer for Kids in Court. She also tutored at the Martinez Learning Center and was a member of the Nominating Committee. She is currently a member of the NCJW Board.
Helen has also held leadership roles at Temple Emanu-El and the Texas Women’s Foundation, among others. We are incredibly honored to recognize Helen for her contributions. Congratulations!
STACI MANKOFF
Staci Mankoff, a CPA by profession, is the deserving recipient of the Janis Levine Music Make-a-Difference Award, honoring her selfless dedication to the community.
Staci’s contributions, often behind the scenes, include impressive leadership roles within the Dallas Summer Musicals, Broadway Dallas Advisory Committee, and Community Homes for Adults, Inc. (CHAI), demonstrating her unwavering commitment to social responsibility.
Her financial acumen and development skills have greatly benefited many institutions across Dallas, including the Texas Women’s Foundation and The Hockaday School, where she served as Annual Fund Chair. Staci currently is the Chair of Temple Emanuel-El’s Annual Fund, further highlighting her dedication to her community.
Staci’s noteworthy involvement with NCJW Dallas has included roles on the Board and the Executive Committee and has been a guiding force impacting positive outcomes. Her extraordinary skills and steadfast commitment to the organization have been consistent throughout her tenure. Staci’s achievements have not only benefited NCJW Dallas but have also made a significant impact within the broader community.
Congratulations, Staci!
DAFNA RUBINSTEIN, Emerging Leader Award
Dafna Rubinstein is a board member and PACE Committee Cochair, two pivotal roles in driving NCJW’s mission and initiatives. Dafna’s dedication and active involvement with the organization, coupled with her strong Jewish background and passion for community service, make her an excellent candidate for future leadership roles.
Dafna has enriched many lives through her pursuits in special education and applied behavior analysis. She sharpened her leadership skills through volunteer work with Akiba Yavneh Academy, JCC, Reading Partners, and Congregation Anshai Torah, where she played a key role in early childhood education programs. Currently, she serves on the board for Camp Ramah Darom and the University of Michigan Hillel.
In recognition of her leadership and service, Dafna is the deserving recipient of the well-earned 2024 NCJW Dallas Emerging Leader Award.
Congratulations, Dafna!
We are looking forward to celebrating with you!