May 1, 2026
More than 65 members of Congregation Beth Tikvah’s Legacy Circle gathered on Friday, April 24, for a meaningful evening of Shabbat dinner, prayer, and reflection, celebrating some of the stories and commitments that continue to sustain the congregation across generations.
During the Shabbat service, an address was given by Legacy Circle members Jane Mitchell and Michael Alexander, who shared their personal journey to Beth Tikvah and the story behind the endowment they established to support Jewish education.
“There are a couple of things you need to know about us to understand our journey to Beth Tikvah and the creation of our endowment,” Jane began. One was her path as “a Jew by choice,” and the other was the many years the couple spent moving across the country for education before ultimately settling in Columbus.
When Jane and Michael first arrived in the area, they came to Beth Tikvah seeking a place to name their child. “Almost from the very beginning, we felt at home here,” Jane shared. “Everyone was so welcoming.” That sense of belonging became the foundation for decades of involvement, from teaching Sunday School and creating new programs to raising their children, and now grandchildren, within the Beth Tikvah community.
Reflecting on their decision to establish a legacy gift, Jane explained that when Michael retired, he wanted to do “something meaningful that would create a lasting legacy and support future generations.” For them, Beth Tikvah was the natural choice.
Their endowment focuses on access to Jewish education. “We wanted to ensure that every child could receive a Jewish education,” Jane said, emphasizing that no child should be denied learning opportunities due to financial barriers or special educational needs. Drawing from her 40‑year career as a special education teacher, she spoke passionately about inclusion and equity.
“As someone whose own daughter was nearly denied an education because I was not considered ‘Jewish enough,’” Jane shared, “I felt strongly about ensuring that all children…have access to religious education.”
The Michael Alexander and Jane Mitchell Endowment for the Education of All Jewish Children reflects the spirit of Legacy Circle Shabbat itself: gratitude for what has been received, and a commitment to planting seeds so that Jewish life at Beth Tikvah continues to thrive for generations to come.
Those interested in learning more about making a legacy gift or establishing an endowment are invited to reach out to Legacy Co‑Chairs Carol and Andy, or to Executive Director Debbie Vinocur. They would be glad to continue the conversation and help explore meaningful ways to support Beth Tikvah’s future.
Written by Hannah Karr, Director of Marketing & Community Engagement