About The Convention

Message from Emanuel J. Adler, Convention Chair

It is a pleasure to welcome you to this virtual version of the 2011 Biennial National Convention of the Orthodox Union.

For over a century, the Orthodox Union has been a leader in all areas of Jewish life, from the most basic – kosher food certification, support for our network of synagogues, and, more recently, parenting and marriage seminars and the Job Board – to the most spiritual, Talmud torah and Tefilah enhancement. The work of NCSY on behalf of Jewish teens, the services of Yachad for those with special challenges, the presence of JLIC on nearly a score of college campuses, the impactful political advocacy of the IPA and the increasing programs on behalf of our brethren, young and old, in Israel, are among the activities of the OU that have enriched the lives of millions of Jews across the nation and, indeed, across the globe.

Of course, we meet at a time of numerous challenges, to both our economic and our spiritual well-being. While, in one conference, it would be impossible to address, much less solve, all of the problems facing us, we will demonstrate that our community is blessed with Torah and lay leaders who are up to the challenge and that the OU has the ability and resolve to galvanize these forces for the benefit of our people.

To the friends of the OU who are visiting us online, we hope that this virtual forum serves to reaffirm your affinity for our organization and your desire to support it. To the community members who are first learning of the exciting programs and services of the OU, we hope you are inspired by the breadth and depth of our resources and achievements on behalf of the Klal and will desire to become further involved in our organization.

Thank you for joining us. I hope your participation will be meaningful and enjoyable.