My name is Tamar Guggenheim, and I am a junior at George Washington University. My journey has been deeply intertwined with the Atlanta Jewish community, much of which I owe to the Federation’s influence.
Growing up in Atlanta, I attended the Epstein School, a Jewish day school that laid the foundation for my strong Jewish identity. The friendships and values I gained there continue to shape who I am today.
Camp Barney Medintz was another significant part of my life, where I spent 11 years surrounded by a supportive Jewish community. It was there that I developed lasting bonds and a deeper connection to my heritage. The camp’s environment, though not overtly religious, instilled Jewish values that have guided me through my life.
In high school, I was involved with BBYO and Jumpspark, both of which further connected me to the Jewish community. My engagement continued into college, where I now serve as the president of Sigma Delta Tau (SDT), a historically Jewish sorority at GW. My decision to run for this position was largely influenced by the challenges our chapter faced after the events of October 7th. I wanted to ensure that Jewish members felt supported while fostering an inclusive environment for all.
Inspired by my mother, who has been deeply involved in Women’s Philanthropy and currently serves as Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy President, I am committed to continuing this legacy of community engagement and leadership.
This past summer, I participated in the Onward Israel program, which allowed me to reconnect with the Jewish homeland in a meaningful way, especially during a time of heightened tensions. The experience reinforced my connection to Israel and reminded me of the importance of being part of a global Jewish community.
Looking back, it’s clear that Federation has played a significant role in shaping my life. From my education at Epstein to my involvement in Jewish organizations and internships, Federation’s support has been a constant thread in my journey. I can’t imagine being where I am today without the experiences and opportunities that Federation has provided, and I look forward to continuing this journey in the years to come.
From the next generation carrying on Federation’s legacy:
Thank you.
