IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION congratulating Gavriela “Gavi” Geller for her service to the Jewish Community Relations Bureau/American Jewish Committee (JCRB/AJC).
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 21672, July 16, 2024
INTRODUCED BY Donna Peyton, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Gavriela "Gavi" Geller stepped into the role as the youngest and first woman to serve as Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Bureau/American Jewish Committee (JCRB/AJC) just before the Tree of Life shooting, the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history; and,
WHEREAS, during her tenure, antisemitism increased significantly, and Gavi led the organization through these challenging times, including after the October 7th terrorist attack in Israel; and,
WHEREAS, under her leadership, JCRB/AJC grew from a two-person team to a significantly expanded entity with greater regional impact; and,
WHEREAS, Gavi's vision since 2018 built a robust infrastructure essential for combating antisemitism; and,
WHEREAS, her dedication began with the American Jewish Committee (AJC) in 2015, and she has since built a strong team for a seamless transition to her successor; and,
WHEREAS, JCRB/AJC tripled in size, becoming a key voice for the Jewish community in public affairs and relations with other communities, media, and government officials; and,
WHEREAS, she spearheaded educational initiatives, training over 2,500 educators and leaders, and significantly expanded antisemitism training programs; and,
WHEREAS, Gavi impacted legislation, contributing to the passage of the NO HATE Act in 2021, the adoption of the IHRA Working Definition of Antisemitism in Kansas in 2022, and securing significant funding for Jewish community security in 2024; and,
WHEREAS, she built and deepened relationships with faith and community partners and diversified the Board of JCRB/AJC; and,
WHEREAS, her leadership ensured the safety and well-being of Jewish students and organized the region’s first summit on antisemitism, marking ten years since the tragic Overland Park shootings; and,
WHEREAS, JCRB/AJC has become a national model under her leadership, driven by her desire to honor her late father and ancestors; and,
WHEREAS, her departure marks a bittersweet moment as she leaves behind a self-sustaining organization while continuing to support the community in the future; and,
WHEREAS, the Jackson County Legislature recognizes her tireless efforts and profound impact on the Jewish community in Kansas City and beyond; now therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED by the County Legislature of Jackson County, Missouri that the Legislature hereby extends its deepest appreciation and commendation to Gavriela "Gavi" Geller for her outstanding service and dedication as the Executive Director of the Jewish Community Relations Bureau (JCRB/AJC) and extends its best wishes for her future endeavors.
Enacted and Approved
Effective Date: This Resolution shall be effective immediately upon its passage by a majority of the Legislature.
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
____________________________
County Counselor
Certificate of Passage
I hereby certify that the attached resolution, Resolution No. 21672 of July 16, 2024, was duly passed on ______________________, 2024 by the Jackson County Legislature. The votes thereon were as follows:
Yeas _______________ Nays ______________
Abstaining _________ Absent ____________
________________________ ____________________________
Date Mary Jo Spino, Clerk of Legislature