Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2026 CJDS Soirée! Together, we raised meaningful support for CJDS, helping to ensure the continued strength and vibrancy of our school.

Our incredible co-chairs, Jill Herman and Stephanie Elias, put on an event to remember and we are so grateful for their hard work, dedication and passion for this school and our community.

From the delicious food provided by Arie Catering, to the fun music duo, Whisky Business, exciting auction items and a heartfelt program, the night was filled with joy, connection, and celebration.

Mazel tov to our honorees—Ken Gold, our outgoing Board President, and Katie Feldstein, celebrating 25 years of teaching at CJDS. Your contributions have had a lasting impact on our school and its students. Read more about our honorees below.

Big thanks to the generosity of our community!

For 28 years, Columbus Jewish Day School has nurtured Jewish identity, scholarship, and leadership.
This evening will ensure the next generation continues that legacy. Since then we have had over 500 students, have offered scholarships to many families and continued to serve the community through academic excellence and experiential learning for almost 3 decades!

Our 2026 Honorees

Ken Gold | Board President & Founder

Ken is a founding CJDS Board member, alumni parent, current CJDS grandparent, and the current Board President of CJDS. Recognized as an innovative leader in the real estate development industry, Ken is the former CEO, and current Principal & Senior Strategic Advisor, at Skilken Gold Real Estate Development, a 104-year-old, four generation, national real estate development company. In addition, Ken was an Adjunct Professor for 42 years at Ohio State, teaching MBA's, Real Estate Finance and Development.

Other Community roles Ken has held include Executive Board Member of Columbus Jewish Federation, Chair of the Israel Department, Hillel Board Member, Congregation Tifereth Israel Board Member and Director of the Real Estate Center at Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University."

Katie Feldstein | Judaic Studies Teacher & 25 Years at CJDS

Katie began her journey at CJDS as a graduate intern and has devoted the past 25 years to teaching Hebrew and Judaic Studies in Kindergarten, first, and second grade. With a Master’s in Elementary Education from The Ohio State University and Ohio K–8 teaching certification, she brings both deep expertise and heartfelt commitment to her classroom each day.

Inspired by her own Jewish upbringing and education, Katie instills in her students a lasting love of the Hebrew language and Jewish tradition. Known for her joyful, child-centered approach, she brings learning to life through music, dance, song, and dramatic presentation—creating an environment where every child feels engaged, confident, and inspired.

Katie’s belief in the CJDS mission extends beyond the classroom. She and her husband proudly enrolled their son at CJDS, where he thrived and graduated in 2019.

When she’s not teaching, Katie enjoys singing, exercising, reading, spending time with family and friends, and caring for her puppy.