Ori Mandowsky
JACS

Ori Mandowsky serves as a co-chair of the JACS Toronto Board of Directors, bringing a wealth of financial knowledge and strategic insight to the organization. Over his six years on the board, including his leadership as chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, Ori has played a key role in guiding JACS’ growth and long-term vision. Professionally, he is a wealth advisor and portfolio manager at Nicola Wealth’s Toronto office, with more than 14 years of experience in wealth management, following an earlier career as a corporate lawyer.

Outside of his professional life, Ori is deeply engaged in volunteer work and community initiatives, including organizing charity bike rides. He is an avid cyclist and enjoys staying active, balancing his personal passions with his dedication to JACS. Ori is married and a proud father of three children.

Sharon List
JF&CS

Sharon List has dedicated her life to education, community service, and leadership. A retired school superintendent with more than 40 years of experience, she built her career in special education, supporting diverse populations and advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion. Her commitment to student well-being led her to pioneer partnerships with social workers, including a ground-breaking initiative with Sunnybrook Hospital that expanded school-based supports. Since retirement, Sharon has served on the Jewish Family and Child Service (JF&CS) Board of Directors, including as president.

At the heart of Sharon’s work is her devotion to family and education. Together with her late husband, Ralph, she instilled a love of learning in their children, creating nightly routines of reading and homework time. In Ralph’s memory, the family established the Ralph List Family Fund, which supports the JF&CS Homework Club and Jerome D Diamond Centre, offering one-on-one tutoring and mentorship to students in need. Sharon treasures her role as mother, grandmother of five, and primary caregiver to her 96-year-old mother, while also enjoying theatre, reading, and baking.

Jennifer Cohen
JIAS

Jennifer Cohen is a talent development professional, working to empower individuals and leaders to improve their skills, lead more effectively, and bring about self-awareness. Over the last two years, Jennifer has applied these skills in her volunteerism with JIAS Toronto, acting as a coach and mentor for newcomers to Canada seeking to enter the Canadian job market.

Jennifer has volunteered in many different capacities within the Jewish community and beyond. During this period, Jennifer has volunteered with Ve’ahavta, both as a workshop facilitator and on their mobile van servicing the homeless. Jennifer has also mentored a newcomer to Canada through Jumpstart Refugee Talent, supporting her English language development and helping her navigate the employment landscape.

Jennifer is married with two children and has a Rhodesian Ridgeback named Jackie. Community has always been important to Jennifer, and she has enjoyed volunteering with JIAS as they continue to support new Canadians navigating the Canadian marketplace.