A Conversation with Jaimee Mitzmacher – KBI’s New President
Jaimee is an elementary and special education teacher and KBI’s newly appointed President. Recently, Kate McGregor, Chair of the Communications Committee, sat down with her over coffee to learn more about her. The following is a summary of their conversation:
1. What brought you to our congregation?
I moved to Ottawa from Jacksonville, Florida, nine years ago when my husband, Jon, accepted a position as the head of the Ottawa Jewish Community School. As Conservative Jews living a Conservative lifestyle, it was a no-brainer for Jon, our two daughters Eliana (age 20), Maytal (age 17) and me to choose KBI.
2. What do you love most about being part of this community?
Being part of a community of dedicated volunteers at KBI feels good. So many congregants are eager to lend a hand.
As President, my goal is to ensure that everyone feels a deep sense of purpose, belonging, and connection to KBI. I want people to take pride in their involvement and contributions, and to experience real joy in being part of our community. Together, I hope we will continue to build a strong and collaborative team of clergy, staff, and volunteers—so that KBI not only thrives but continues to serve as the leading home for Conservative Judaism in Ottawa.
3. Where did you grow up?
Philadelphia — Philly’s in my blood! I’m proud of the history of my city, which was the birthplace of the United States, home to the Liberty Bell, and where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed.
I graduated from Syracuse University and moved to Los Angeles at age 21 with just two bags in tow. That’s where I met my bashert, Jon. As we dated, I realized I couldn’t see myself raising a family in LA. Luckily, Jon received a job offer in Long Island, New York. Since then, our moves have followed Jon’s work. Of all the cities we’ve lived in, Jacksonville, Florida, was the most special — it has a wonderful Jewish community and a warm, haimishy vibe.
Now, Jon, our girls and I are dual citizens of the United States and Canada.
4. What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
I believe I am such an open book that there isn’t much about me that would surprise anyone. I’m pretty much a “what you see is what you get” kind of person. However, here’s a fun fact that my family contributed: I am genuinely terrified of cats! I can’t explain why; I just am. When Jon mentioned he wanted a cat, I told him he would have to choose between me, his wife, and the cat because I could never be comfortable living with one. I guess I won!
Here’s something else people might not know about me. I love my Philly football. The Philadelphia Eagles are my team! “Go birds!” is our battle cry.
5. If you could have dinner with any Jewish figure (past or present), who would it be and why?
Ruth Bader Ginsburg, without a doubt! She was such a role model — an advocate for equality and women’s rights, as well as a pop culture icon on Saturday Night Live.
Over dinner, I might be tempted to ask RBG why she didn’t retire earlier, when President Obama could have appointed her successor to the Supreme Court.
6. What book is on your nightstand?
I often read on the living room sofa during Shabbat. Right now, I’m reading Side by Side: Parallel Histories of Israel-Palestine”, a book that explores how the history of the Middle East can be presented from two different perspectives.
7. What is your favourite word?
Activate