Building Leaders, Strengthening Federation: The Tritt Fellowship Legacy
Each year, alumni of the Tritt Family Foundation Leadership Development Institute reunite to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate how far they’ve come since their fellowship journeys began. This year’s gathering brought together participants from the first and second cohorts, joined virtually by Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, scholar in residence, the program’s longtime scholar-in-residence. Though he joined by Zoom, the warmth and familiarity between Rabbi Hirschfield and the fellows was unmistakable — a testament to the meaningful relationships forged through this unique leadership experience.
Cohort I Tritt Fellow, and current Board Chair, Debbie Kuniansky says: “The Tritt Leadership Development was by far one of the best leadership experiences/programs that I’ve participated in. This small cohort of leaders continues to support each other’s leadership throughout Jewish Atlanta.”
The Tritt Fellowship, generously funded by the Joyce and Ramie Tritt Family Foundation, is one of Federation’s most impactful leadership pipelines. Many alumni now serve in key volunteer and board roles, continuing to shape Federation’s vision and future. Designed to cultivate a committed “leadership ladder,” the fellowship develops future leaders who share common experiences, a shared vision, and a deep connection to Jewish communal life.
Debbie says she’s grateful to the Tritt family for funding this program. “My experience as a Tritt Fellow taught me the significance of our Federation in building a robust Jewish community in Metro-Atlanta while also taking care of Jews around the world and in Israel. And I can attribute my leadership path directly to my participation as a Tritt Fellow. It’s really great for our community and I’m so thankful to Joyce and Ramie Tritt for making this leadership experience possible and meaningful.”
Through a series of immersive experiences — including retreats, community missions, and a week-long journey to Israel — participants gain the skills and insight to lead with purpose. The fellowship is by invitation only, ensuring that those chosen are deeply committed to Federation’s mission and ready to make an enduring impact.
Each year, fellows reconnect to learn, share updates, and strengthen the bonds that continue long after the program ends. Their enthusiasm reflects not only their growth but also the generosity of the Tritt family, whose ongoing support makes this transformative program possible.
Cohort II Tritt Fellow, Josh Friedensohn says the Fellowship helped deepen his connections to the Atlanta community: “Being an Atlanta transplant from Texas, my wife and I were trying to find the best way to get more involved in Jewish ATL life. Back home, we founded several Jewish impact organizations and wanted to connect with the community here. Being a part of Federation and invited on the Tritt Fellowship deepened our connections throughout Atlanta and enabled us to build our local Jewish community.”
As Federation looks ahead, excitement is building for the launch of a new cohort — continuing a legacy of leadership that began with the Tritt family’s vision.