Marsha Strongin

WHY WL? – From IntraContinental Region

I joined my Sisterhood in Austin, Texas (over 30 years ago) because I wanted to find a group of women friends. Back then, we thought we could do anything – and we did! We had our children, worked, ran our homes, and took care of ourselves. One part of taking care of ourselves was joining other women like us who wanted to be with other Jewish women to help ourselves, our children, and our Synagogue. We used to meet on Sundays while the kids were in Sunday School. I eventually became Sisterhood President, and I ran the Judaica Shop for a few years. As I worked my way through my Sisterhood, my Region, and finally the International Board, I have met many wonderful women throughout the U.S., Canada, and Israel.

When I moved from Austin to the Portland, Oregon, area, I joined Sisterhood there to try to make new friends. In Austin, I had a baby, and it was easy (ish) to find other women with children Hannah’s age, so friendships came easier. Moving as an adult is much harder. I thought Sisterhood was a good path. It wasn’t as easy as it had been in Austin but eventually, I made good friends in Oregon. It was there that I became more involved in the North by Northwest (NxNW) Region, not just my Sisterhood. I spoke up (surprise!) at the evaluation meeting at the end of a Region conference and the next thing I knew, I was on the Region Board. I remember my first International Convention sitting at a table with my Region sisters and singing. The meal was over, other tables were sitting around talking, and our table was singing. We sang all sorts of songs. Pretty soon, others came and joined us. We had a blast! Every convention since, that Region gets together every night to sing. There is one night reserved for Region parties, but the NxNW Region parties every night of convention. About a year after I became Region President, my husband and I moved back to Austin. I found a wonderful woman to take my place as the head of the Region. 

Upon my return to Austin, I was asked to be on the International Board of Women’s League. I was to be a Vice President but the woman who was Treasurer had a medical issue and could no longer do the job, so they asked me to step in for her. I spent three years as Treasurer and I am currently in my second year as an International Vice President in charge of the next convention to be held in Alexandria, Va., in July of 2026.

Why Women’s League?

Empowerment and Personal Growth:
Believe it or not, I used to be shy. I’d get up in front of a group and shake. My voice would go up about three octaves. We have programs, workshops, seminars, and mentoring programs designed to enhance skills and boost confidence. The supportive environment encourages our members to step out of their comfort zones, take on leadership roles, and pursue their ambitions with conviction.

Skill Development:
Through training sessions and educational programs, including our Leadership Training Seminars, Women’s League helps its members develop valuable skills including public speaking, leadership, and more. 

Confidence-Building:
Women’s League is an environment where members can share their experiences, celebrate their successes, and support one another in times of need. This camaraderie helps build the self-assurance needed to thrive.

Networking Opportunities:
Women’s League provides an excellent platform for building meaningful connections. Our programs, events, conferences, and conventions bring members from all around the U.S., Canada, and Israel.

Peer Support:
Women’s League offers a sense of community and peer support. Members can find allies who understand the unique challenges women face in the workplace and society.

Advocacy and Social Impact:
Through our resolutions, Women’s League plays a crucial role in advocating for gender equality and women’s rights. Our members contribute to meaningful social change and are part of a collective effort to address current issues.

Role Models and Mentors:
We have many role models in Women’s League – our past International Presidents, our past Region Presidents, our board members, etc. Interacting with these women can provide valuable insights, encouragement, and guidance. Having a mentor to turn to can make a significant difference in one’s life.

Celebrating Success:
Lastly, Women’s League celebrates the successes and milestones of our members. Recognizing and honoring these achievements fosters a positive environment that encourages women to continue striving for excellence. At the next convention, we will be celebrating the Bat Mitzvah of women who will have been studying for three years to accomplish this task. The entire convention will celebrate this achievement with them.

Joining Women’s League is a powerful step toward personal and professional growth. It offers a supportive community, valuable resources, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. We provide the foundation for women to thrive and succeed.

Marsha Strongin
International Vice President, Convention Chair, WLCJ – Congregation Agudas Achim – Austin, TX