Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz, who lives in Cincinnati, will deliver the keynote address for Hadassah Dayton’s 100th Birthday Grand Centennial Celebration Party, 2 p.m., Sunday, Oct. 11.

“The event will be a tribute to past and current Dayton Hadassah members and it is open to the community,” said chapter President Julie Bloom.

With a mission to advance women’s health, Zionism, and to support Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem, Hadassah has approximately 300,000 members in chapters across America.

Speakers on the program will also include Jewish Federation CEO Cathy Gardner and Hadassah Great Plains Region President Sharon Star of Springfield, Ill.

Program chairperson Paula Gessiness said the chapter is interviewing members about what Hadassah means to them. “We’re going to compile them into a booklet that everybody there will be able to take home.” Those present will be asked to share their responses during the party.

“We’ll have afternoon appetizers and desserts catered by Rochel Simon,” Gessiness added. “It’s a Mediterranean menu and we’re going to have a big birthday cake and ice cream.”

The cost is $36. Out-of-towners are invited to join virtually for $18. The location will be provided upon registration with Gessiness, at 937-430-5059.

Hadassah Dayton Recording Secretary Bev Farnbacher said the chapter’s Centennial Fundraiser Campaign has reached half of its $10,000 goal to aid Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem.

To read the complete October 2026 Dayton Jewish Observer, click here.