SAN DIEGO (Press Release)– Jewish Community Foundation San Diego (JCF) announces the appointment of Michael S. Levinson as Chair of its Board of Directors and welcome four new board members: Susan Chortek Weisman, Debby Cushman-Parrish, Karen Foster Silberman, and Leo Simpser. Their terms began July 1, 2026.
A longtime community leader and active JCF volunteer, Levinson succeeds outgoing Board Chair Tina Beranbaum, whose leadership helped guide the Foundation through a period of significant growth and impact. The Foundation extends its gratitude for Tina’s dedicated leadership and service to JCF, and the broader San Diego community.
“Michael brings a deep commitment to Jewish communal life, thoughtful leadership, and a long history of service to our organization,” said Jeremy Pearl, Chief Executive Officer, Miriam and Jerome Katzin Executive Chair. “We are excited to work alongside him as we continue strengthening philanthropy, supporting nonprofits, and helping donors create meaningful impact throughout San Diego and beyond.”
Levinson, a native San Diegan, has been involved with JCF for more than a decade, serving in numerous leadership and committee roles. With a professional background in law and finance, he has helped guide the Foundation’s growth while championing its mission to maximize charitable impact and strengthen Jewish life in San Diego and beyond.
“It is a tremendous honor to serve as Chair of the Board,” said Levinson. “I have seen a renewed desire for connection, belonging, and engagement across San Diego. People are looking for ways to connect, strengthen Jewish life, and make a difference. JCF is uniquely positioned to help turn that energy into lasting impact.”
The Foundation’s newest board members bring decades of leadership experience across philanthropy, business, finance, and community service:
Susan Chortek Weisman has served on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors for San Diego Jewish Academy and Lawrence Family JCC JACOBS FAMILY CAMPUS. Currently, Susan serves on the Board of Hebrew Free Loan San Diego and Board of Trustees of Jewish National Fund of San Diego. She is a member of the Jewish Women’s Foundation and is very involved in The Chortek Weisman Family Fund and The Peter Chortek Leadership Award.
Debby Cushman-Parrish is the Director of Selma Investments and Cush Enterprises. She currently serves on the Finance and Systems Committee at JCF. Debby is the Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees at the San Diego History Center, Board member at the Seacrest Foundation, and an Advisory Board member at CalPrivate Bank.
Karen Foster Silberman is an active member in the San Diego Jewish community where she serves on many boards and committees dedicated to improving the quality of life for vulnerable populations. Karen was a founding member of the Jewish Women’s Foundation and her family funds the Pauline Foster Women’s Philanthropy Leadership Institute, a program designed to cultivate strong women leaders in the San Diego Jewish Community.
Leo Simpser founded and heads LLJ Ventures, a Real Estate Private Equity Platform. He is also a managing partner in LM Advisors, an RIA. He was previously the co-founder and CEO of the Hispanic National Mortgage Association. In 2005, Leo received the Eagle Award recognizing his leadership within the Hispanic community. Leo is the founder and President of KavodFund and is the former president and current Trustee of the Ken Jewish Community in San Diego.
“Our board reflects the strength, generosity, and leadership of our community,” said Levinson. “I am excited to welcome Susan, Debby, Karen, and Leo to the Foundation board. Together, we will help ensure JCF continues to be a trusted philanthropic partner for donors and a catalyst for positive change throughout our community.”
Jewish Community Foundation San Diego manages nearly $1 billion in charitable assets and partners with individuals, families, and organizations to create lasting philanthropic impact. Through strategic grantmaking, charitable planning, and community leadership, JCF helps strengthen Jewish life and improve communities locally, in Israel, and around the world.