Tel Aviv University Canada provides direct funding support for the educational and research goals of Tel Aviv University (TAU), Israel’s largest and most comprehensive institution of higher learning, facilitated by enhanced public awareness of the University’s achievements and programming through the development of a strong local network of support.
As part of a global network of friends’ associations, CFTAU facilitates academic and research partnerships between Canada and Israel as well as establishing scholarships, supporting research, cultivating student and faculty exchanges and recruiting Canadian students to participate in the TAU International Program.
By supporting Tel Aviv University, you will be supporting Israel’s finest academic institution.
Located in Israel’s high-tech and cultural centre, Tel Aviv University (TAU) represents the country at its best – dynamic, innovative and forward-looking. Established as a small local college in 1956, TAU has evolved into Israel’s largest and most influential research university. It ranks first among Israeli universities (Times, Taiwan and QS), as well as 7th in the world – and the only institution outside of the US – for producing successful startup founders (Pitchbook). TAU’s 30,000 students are enrolled in 130 schools and departments that span the spectrum of sciences, humanities and arts.
The University is driven by a four-pronged mission: promoting interdisciplinary research and teaching, internationalizing the campus, deepening industry partnerships, and reinforcing community engagement. Our overarching goal: To strengthen Israel’s economy, society, security and international standing.
Research strengths include AI, nano, cyber, cancer, trauma, archaeology, business and film, among others. Among recent breakthroughs, TAU teams produced the world’s first live, 3D-printed heart, opening new directions for replacing injured organs; developed the first-ever emergency neuroprotective treatment for spinal cord injury with a grant from the US Department of Defense; were first to use gene-editing technology to engineer a prototype HIV vaccine; discovered a new type of prehistoric human; and devised a drug cocktail for the early prevention of aggressive skin cancer metastasis. At the same time, TAU was also the first in Israel to launch a dedicated program targeting talented students from Israel’s social and geographic periphery, and revolutionized social responsibility by embedding volunteerism in accredited courses.
Tel Aviv University welcomes 2,000 international students annually, studying in over 20 degree programs in English. It has 280 academic partnerships with institutions in 46 countries and pursues collaborative teaching and research with Stanford, Columbia, Johns Hopkins, Northwestern, NIH, NASA, CERN and many other world-leading institutions.
Tel Aviv University Canada
National and Regional Boards
National Board of Directors
Barbara Seal, C.M. enjoys a distinguished career in public and community spheres. She has worked tirelessly on behalf of countless worthy causes ranging from the Arts to cancer research. She served as municipal councillor for the City of Hampstead and was responsible for introducing innovative policies and programs. She has sat on the Board of Directors of Place des Arts, the Arts Council of the Montreal Urban Community, Théâtre Espace Go and the National Forum on climate change.
She was Vice-President in charge of the Canada Day Celebrations for Québec, and Québec President for the Canada Day Poster Challenge. She presently sits on the Board of the National Arts Centre (Ottawa), the Segal Centre for Performing Arts, the Advisory Board at the McGill School of Continuing Studies, for the Governors of Tel Aviv University, and as National President of Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University.
Michael Tenenbaum attended McGill University where he obtained his B.Sc. and D.D.S. degrees. After a residency in Family Dentistry at the Herzl Clinic of the Jewish General Hospital he went into private practice as a co-founder of the West Island Health Centre in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.
Michael brings a wealth of experience in community work and fundraising. He served as Vice-President of Congregation Beth Tikvah, in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, as well as President of Camp Bnai Brith of Montreal. He is a Past Chair of the Dental Division of UJA and a Past Co-chair of Super Sunday for which he received the Young Leadership Award. Michael has been on the Dental Committee of Israel Bonds for many years and was the Honouree for the Dental Division in 2000.
Professionally, he has been very involved in the Alpha Omega International Dental Society and served as President of the Alpha Omega Mount Royal Dental Society and Vice-President of the Federation of Dental Societies of Greater Montreal. He is a Past Chairman of the Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada. He served as International President of Alpha Omega in 2011 and was a key leader in the campaign for the Rothstein-Williamowsky Post Graduate Clinic at the Dental School at Tel Aviv University which was founded by Alpha Omega. Michael was honoured with a pillar by the Montreal Alumni Chapter.
Michael is a long-standing member of Tel Aviv University Canada, supporting many important causes. He is Past Regional Chair for Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, has served on the National Board for almost a decade, a TAU Governor and is currently the National President of the organization.
Ariela Cotler is a proud Jew, Israeli, a daughter, wife, mother of 4 amazing people, and grandmother of 9.
Ariela, born and raised in Jerusalem, studied at Hebrew University and subsequently worked as a legislative assistant and parliamentary secretary for Menachem Begin and the GH”L party (subsequently the “Likud”) in the Israeli Knesset from 1967-1979. Once in Canada, she worked over the years as a social worker at the CLSC, has taught and lectured. The main topics included Jewish education, Jewish identity and the centrality of Israel.
Her first introduction to Montreal’s Jewish community was the Federation building. The two organizations she initially joined were The Jewish Education Center – working with the young and young adults on issues of Jewish education and identity; and The Canada Israel Committee , QIC, and subsequently CIJA- to work towards enhancing the issues of Israel advocacy and Israel- diaspora relations.
This led to Ariela to become Montreal’s Chair of State of Israel Bonds Woman Division from 1982-1986, a member of the Board and Executive of JNF, and became the first chair of the committee for “The Commemoration For Israel’s Fallen Soldiers”, which made Montreal’s Jewish community one of the first communities in Canada to have this day as part of its annual community calendar since 1988. She also was among those who pushed to start the tradition of celebrating Yom Ha’Azmaut – Israel Independence Day, in a community wide rally in downtown Montreal, since 2002.
Ariela has remained involved in all issues concerning Jewish education, Israel advocacy and Israel-diaspora relations.
Ariela Cotler joined Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada Regional Board of Tel Aviv University Canada in 2018, serving in many leadership roles, including as National President, a member of the Regional and National Boards and currently as the Immediate Past National President.
David Altshuller is a partner at Ricketts Harris LLP. David has a broad based corporate/commercial litigation practice with an emphasis on franchise disputes, estate matters, shareholder disputes, insolvency/restructuring proceedings, construction disputes and property/leasing matters. When required, he can assemble and manage a team of lawyers across a variety of practice areas in order to deal with his clients’ issues in a thorough and cost-effective manner.
David has spoken at numerous conferences and seminars sponsored by, among others, the Ontario Bar Association and the Canadian Franchise Association.
In 2014, 2015 and 2016 David was listed by Lexpert® as an expert in Franchising Law and selected by Franchise Times Magazine as a “Legal Eagle”. He is also listed in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 editions of Best Lawyers International.
David has a strong connection to TAU. He enrolled in the M.A. Program in Middle Eastern History in 1994. He was a teaching assistant in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) from 1996-1997. He was a lecturer in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) 1997-2000 and was employed as Director of Special Education Programs for TAU/OSP.
Stewart Litvack is a Founding Partner at Litvack Sherman LLP, a distinguished boutique law firm that focuses on Family Law, and Estate and Trust Litigation. Stewart is highly regarded in the legal community and frequently sought after for his insights on complex legal matters. He has extensive experience pleading before the Superior Court of Quebec, the Quebec Court of Appeal and has won a landmark case at the Supreme Court of Canada.
Beyond his legal practice, Stewart is highly engaged in innovating the family law sector, and is passionate about reshaping the way family lawyers practice. To this end, he has developed a cloud-based platform for family lawyers that assists them in modernizing their practices and leveraging AI.
Stewart holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University with a major in Finance as well as a Civil Law Degree from the University of Montreal. He is a husband and father of four young children, and an active and committed member of the Tel Aviv University Canada community, including sitting on the National Board and currently serving as the Regional Chair for Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. He also holds the distinguished position of TAU Governor
With over 25 years of experience working with entrepreneurial clients, Mayeer Pearl joined Crowe Soberman’s Audit & Advisory Group as a Partner in 2017. Prior to that, Mayeer was a partner at a local firm for 14 years.
Mayeer is a results-oriented, strategic business leader with a proven record of success working with clients in start-up, turnaround and growth situations. He works with a diverse client base with extensive experience in the real estate, health care, family office and retail sectors. He specializes in providing consulting services including business advice, operation decision making process, acquisition and sale of business, business plans and cash flow projections, estate planning, refinancing and reorganization and special accounting and financial projects. Mayeer has extensive experience in income tax planning, audit and advisory services. He has been involved in audit design, the review of audit findings, audit and accounting research, financial statement preparation, presentations and disclosure.
Mayeer can be relied upon to provide practical business answers as well as solid accounting and tax advice. He takes pride in his personal relationships with clients, and sees his role as that of a friend and trusted adviser to families and closely held businesses.
Mayeer advises and assists many owner managed businesses in the implementation of transitioning to the next generation.
Jeffrey Katz, CPA, Auditor CA, has been an accounting professional since the early 1980’S. He has worked at several top accounting firms including Fuller Landau and Deloitte. In 1999, he established a private practice providing management consulting, accounting, financing, financial planning, tax planning and related services to Corporations of various types and sizes.
He is a professional member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and Quebec Order of Chartered Accountants.
Jeffrey is highly committed to his community and to giving back by participating in several non-profit organizations. Over the years, he has been involved in the B’nai Brith Youth Organization, B’nai Brith Canada (National Financial Steering Committee), Just for Kids Foundation (Founding Treasurer). He is also the Executive Director of the Charles Evelyn & Sandra Dolansky Foundation.
Jeffrey Katz has joined Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada Regional Board of Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University on October 1, 2020.
Richard Charney is a senior partner in the Toronto office of Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLC, where he practises management labour relations and employment law, a field in which he is widely recognized as an advocate on behalf of national and local clients. For more than 10 years, he was Norton Rose Fulbright’s global head of employment and labour.
Mr. Charney acts for numerous employers and employers’ organizations, appearing at provincial and federal labour relations boards, the courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada, and before rights and interest labour arbitration tribunals. He also advises on all matters of employment and labour law, as well as legislative reform. Mr. Charney’s practice also involves collective bargaining on behalf of employers, employment standards, human rights, wrongful dismissal, workplace health and safety and constitutional law.
He is particularly active as an advocate before national labour tribunals such as the Canada Industrial Relations Board, which has jurisdiction over transportation and similar national industries; the Ontario Labour Relations Board, which has jurisdiction in provincial sectors such as construction; and in judicial review challenges to tribunal determinations in the federal and provincial superior courts.
Mr. Charney is also a leading labour counsel to a variety of well-known arts and cultural organizations in Canada and is the co-author of the award-winning text Judicial Review in Labour Law, and has been an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law.
With over 50 years of experience as a partner, Larry W. Rich has worked extensively with not-for-profits and entrepreneurial clients to achieve their goals. A published author, he has presented on topics such as the Family Law Act and Accountants’ Liability. Larry has been called upon to serve as an expert witness and has been appointed as a consultant in various civil actions. He is a CPA, CA, having earned his designation in 1965 and has completed the Academy of Family Mediators program.
Larry is currently a Fellow and committee member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario. He is a member of the Academy of Family Mediators. He is the Chair of Family Enterprises Interest Group of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada. He is the Treasurer and Board Member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners as well as a Board Member of Beth Sholom Synagogue.
Alexandre Abecassis is a Patent Agent and Senior Partner at the law firm Fasken Martineau.
He joined the firm in 2007 to start and develop a patent prosecution practice in the Montreal office. Through almost 18 years in the field, Mr. Abecassis has developed a solid international practice focused mainly on the high-tech sector, with innovations in software, imaging, electronics and telecommunications. He has also developed solid expertise in protecting innovations related to quantum computing and innovations in the aerospace industry. Mr. Abecassis additionally counsels clients in the areas of patent portfolio management and IP due diligence. He particularly enjoys managing complex IP portfolios and he is widely recognized for his strong business acumen.
Mr Abecassis graduated from Ecole Polytechnique in 2000 with a bachelor in electrical engineering. He is a registered patent agent in Canada and in the US. In 2014, Mr. Abecassis graduated from the PLD program of Harvard Business School.
He is also involved in various organizations at a leadership level. He is a currently a board member of the Akiva school, a board member of the Harvard Club of Quebec and a LP member of CIJA. He joined Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University in 2014 and was Chair of the Young Professional Group for a 2 year term.
Galia is the founder and CEO of Gal Investments, which she has led for more than 13 years, building a diverse portfolio and an impressive track record of successful deals. She is recognized for her strong leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive.
Previously, Galia served as CEO of Fishman Holding North America, where she managed a $1 billion commercial real estate portfolio and 2,000 residential units, overseeing acquisitions, financing, and development.
A licensed CPA in both the United States and Israel, Galia brings a unique combination of financial expertise and innovative thinking to every venture.
Galia is also a passionate supporter of Tel Aviv University, where she serves on the Board of Governors and has sponsored a signature real estate delegation for more than a decade.
Irving’s professional career in public accounting focuses on advisory and business negotiations for a variety of business disciplines.
He is a member of both The Institute of Professional Accountants of Ontario and Canada and both the ADR Institute of Ontario and Canada.
He is past Chair of The Reena Foundation, has served on the Board of the Canadian Centre for Diversity, a founding member of The Professional Advisory Group of the Baycrest Foundation, serves on the Board of Tel Aviv University Canada, and is a member of both Tel Aviv University’s Board of Governors and The Abraham Global Peace Initiative.
Entrepreneur, Community Leader & Philanthropist
William B. Lister, a proud Calgary native, is an entrepreneur, seasoned lawyer, and respected community leader known for his passion for innovation, political engagement, and philanthropy. William has succeeded throughout his career, founding and leading several real estate ventures and earning recognition as a visionary.
Bill’s connection to Israel began at 18 when he attended the Mechina program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong bond, leading him to visit Israel more than 25 times.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill is deeply committed to strengthening the Calgary community. As the founder of the Westman School of Real Estate at the University of Calgary, he has played a pivotal role in advancing real estate education and served as an advisor to the Dean. His dedication to nurturing future leaders reflects his enduring belief in education and mentorship.
A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish causes, Bill and his wife, Lily, have led six trips to Israel, engaging over 140 participants, many from non-Jewish backgrounds. These journeys have fostered understanding and inspired others to create meaningful connections with Israel and its people.
Bill is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting the university’s mission in Alberta and British Columbia, ensuring its continued impact as a global leader in education, innovation, and research. Before the tragic events of October 7th, Bill was set to co-chair a mission of Calgary business leaders to Tel Aviv University with Jason Kenney and Jack Mintz.
An avid golfer, cyclist ane tennis enthusiast, Bill’s athletic accomplishments include qualifying for the Maccabee Tennis Canadian team that competed in Buenos Aires. Married to Lily for 44 years, the couple shares a deep commitment to their shared passions, including their love for Israel. Together, they are proud parents of two children and grandparents to two beloved grandchildren.
Elan Roiz is a Montreal-based entrepreneur, lawyer, and family office principal. Born in Israel in 1977 to Soviet-Ukrainian immigrant parents — both engineers — he grew up in the West Island suburbs of Montreal after his family immigrated to Canada in 1980. He earned his law degree from McGill University in 2004, and was called to the Quebec Bar in February 2006. He is fluent in English, French, and Russian.
His professional career is the story of CEATI International — the Canadian Electricity Association Technologies Inc. — a specialized engineering and management consultancy serving electric power utilities across North America. His father founded CEATI in January 2000 as a spin-off from the Canadian Electricity Association, where he had led the R&D division for a decade. Elan became the company’s pro bono legal counsel within days of starting law school, joined full-time upon his bar call in 2006, and over the following fifteen years took on progressively greater operational and strategic control.
CEATI operated on a subscription model: utilities paid an annual fee to participate in specialized technical programs covering every segment of the power grid — transmission, distribution, hydro generation, asset management, protection and control, and more. Each program paired member utilities with a senior independent consultant and, crucially, with one another. The peer network that formed around the table became as valuable as the technical deliverables themselves. Retention rates reached approximately 95%, and any utility that remained a member for five or more years almost never left.
By the time of the exit, CEATI was working with virtually every major utility in Canada and a substantial portion of those in the United States — including ConEdison, the New York Power Authority, Florida Power and Light, and the Tennessee Valley Authority — as well as a growing international client base. The portfolio at exit was roughly 30% Canadian, 55% American, and 15% international. In September 2020, a private equity firm approached CEATI, attracted by the subscription model and its industry-leading retention profile. The transaction closed February 19, 2021.
Since the exit, Elan has been managing the family office and assessing his next operational move — patient, selective, and clear-eyed about the difference between activity and value. He serves on the Board of Governors of Tel Aviv University through the Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University and is engaged in philanthropic work. He is married with two young sons and is based in Hampstead, Quebec.
Jeff has worked in the financial industry for over 35 years, starting as a Foreign Exchange and Money Market Trader for several major international banks. In 1986, Jeff became a Financial Advisor with a major Canadian investment brokerage firm. Over the past 35-plus years, Jeff has successfully achieved the designations of Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute, Canadian Investment Manager and Designated Portfolio Manager. He is a graduate of the University of Waterloo (B.A Economics, 1979).
Jeff was also an instructor for the Intelligent Investing series of seminars for the Investor Learning Centre from 1997 until 2001. The Investor Learning Centre was a not-for-profit, public educational organization sponsored by the Canadian Securities Institute. In 1998, Jeff became one of five semi-finalists for the coveted I.D.A. Distinction Award sponsored by the Investment Dealers Association of Canada, now known as CIRC.
Jeff is married to Annalee and they have three grown children (Eric, Elizabeth and Stephanie). Jeff has been involved in the Jewish community. He is currently a Governor of Tel Aviv University, past Chairman of the Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University, and Former Treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of the Harold Green Jewish Theatre, as well as past Board Chair of BBYO Toronto, and BBYO International (Washington, D.C).
Stephen came to Tel Aviv University Canada with more than 10 years of experience as a fundraising and communications professional; philanthropic advisor, and senior administrator in the not for profit sector. Stephen has had increasingly senior and significant roles in the not-for-profit sector with Reena Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and most recently the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, where he collaborated with a diverse group of donors and volunteers to provide support to the $60million end MS Campaign and other Society initiatives in Ontario and across Canada.
Stephen holds a Bachelors of Arts from the University of Ottawa, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Corporate Communications from Centennial College and a Certificate in Fund Raising Management from Indiana University, The Center on Philanthropy. In 2013 Stephen was named one of ShalomLife’s Top 20 Under 40 and in 2010, Stephen was nominated as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40™. Stephen lives in Toronto with his wife Marnie, a television executive, and their two children.
Barbara Seal, C.M. enjoys a distinguished career in public and community spheres. She has worked tirelessly on behalf of countless worthy causes ranging from the Arts to cancer research. She served as municipal councillor for the City of Hampstead and was responsible for introducing innovative policies and programs. She has sat on the Board of Directors of Place des Arts, the Arts Council of the Montreal Urban Community, Théâtre Espace Go and the National Forum on climate change.
She was Vice-President in charge of the Canada Day Celebrations for Québec, and Québec President for the Canada Day Poster Challenge. She presently sits on the Board of the National Arts Centre (Ottawa), the Segal Centre for Performing Arts, the Advisory Board at the McGill School of Continuing Studies, for the Governors of Tel Aviv University, and as National President of Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University.
Michael Tenenbaum attended McGill University where he obtained his B.Sc. and D.D.S. degrees. After a residency in Family Dentistry at the Herzl Clinic of the Jewish General Hospital he went into private practice as a co-founder of the West Island Health Centre in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.
Michael brings a wealth of experience in community work and fundraising. He served as Vice-President of Congregation Beth Tikvah, in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, as well as President of Camp Bnai Brith of Montreal. He is a Past Chair of the Dental Division of UJA and a Past Co-chair of Super Sunday for which he received the Young Leadership Award. Michael has been on the Dental Committee of Israel Bonds for many years and was the Honouree for the Dental Division in 2000.
Professionally, he has been very involved in the Alpha Omega International Dental Society and served as President of the Alpha Omega Mount Royal Dental Society and Vice-President of the Federation of Dental Societies of Greater Montreal. He is a Past Chairman of the Alpha Omega Foundation of Canada. He served as International President of Alpha Omega in 2011 and was a key leader in the campaign for the Rothstein-Williamowsky Post Graduate Clinic at the Dental School at Tel Aviv University which was founded by Alpha Omega. Michael was honoured with a pillar by the Montreal Alumni Chapter.
Michael is a long-standing member of Tel Aviv University Canada, supporting many important causes. He is Past Regional Chair for Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada, has served on the National Board for almost a decade, a TAU Governor and is currently the National President of the organization.
Ariela Cotler is a proud Jew, Israeli, a daughter, wife, mother of 4 amazing people, and grandmother of 9.
Ariela, born and raised in Jerusalem, studied at Hebrew University and subsequently worked as a legislative assistant and parliamentary secretary for Menachem Begin and the GH”L party (subsequently the “Likud”) in the Israeli Knesset from 1967-1979. Once in Canada, she worked over the years as a social worker at the CLSC, has taught and lectured. The main topics included Jewish education, Jewish identity and the centrality of Israel.
Her first introduction to Montreal’s Jewish community was the Federation building. The two organizations she initially joined were The Jewish Education Center – working with the young and young adults on issues of Jewish education and identity; and The Canada Israel Committee , QIC, and subsequently CIJA- to work towards enhancing the issues of Israel advocacy and Israel- diaspora relations.
This led to Ariela to become Montreal’s Chair of State of Israel Bonds Woman Division from 1982-1986, a member of the Board and Executive of JNF, and became the first chair of the committee for “The Commemoration For Israel’s Fallen Soldiers”, which made Montreal’s Jewish community one of the first communities in Canada to have this day as part of its annual community calendar since 1988. She also was among those who pushed to start the tradition of celebrating Yom Ha’Azmaut – Israel Independence Day, in a community wide rally in downtown Montreal, since 2002.
Ariela has remained involved in all issues concerning Jewish education, Israel advocacy and Israel-diaspora relations.
Ariela Cotler joined Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada Regional Board of Tel Aviv University Canada in 2018, serving in many leadership roles, including as National President, a member of the Regional and National Boards and currently as the Immediate Past National President.
David Altshuller is a partner at Ricketts Harris LLP. David has a broad based corporate/commercial litigation practice with an emphasis on franchise disputes, estate matters, shareholder disputes, insolvency/restructuring proceedings, construction disputes and property/leasing matters. When required, he can assemble and manage a team of lawyers across a variety of practice areas in order to deal with his clients’ issues in a thorough and cost-effective manner.
David has spoken at numerous conferences and seminars sponsored by, among others, the Ontario Bar Association and the Canadian Franchise Association.
In 2014, 2015 and 2016 David was listed by Lexpert® as an expert in Franchising Law and selected by Franchise Times Magazine as a “Legal Eagle”. He is also listed in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 editions of Best Lawyers International.
David has a strong connection to TAU. He enrolled in the M.A. Program in Middle Eastern History in 1994. He was a teaching assistant in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) from 1996-1997. He was a lecturer in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) 1997-2000 and was employed as Director of Special Education Programs for TAU/OSP.
Stewart Litvack is a Founding Partner at Litvack Sherman LLP, a distinguished boutique law firm that focuses on Family Law, and Estate and Trust Litigation. Stewart is highly regarded in the legal community and frequently sought after for his insights on complex legal matters. He has extensive experience pleading before the Superior Court of Quebec, the Quebec Court of Appeal and has won a landmark case at the Supreme Court of Canada.
Beyond his legal practice, Stewart is highly engaged in innovating the family law sector, and is passionate about reshaping the way family lawyers practice. To this end, he has developed a cloud-based platform for family lawyers that assists them in modernizing their practices and leveraging AI.
Stewart holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University with a major in Finance as well as a Civil Law Degree from the University of Montreal. He is a husband and father of four young children, and an active and committed member of the Tel Aviv University Canada community, including sitting on the National Board and currently serving as the Regional Chair for Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. He also holds the distinguished position of TAU Governor
With over 25 years of experience working with entrepreneurial clients, Mayeer Pearl joined Crowe Soberman’s Audit & Advisory Group as a Partner in 2017. Prior to that, Mayeer was a partner at a local firm for 14 years.
Mayeer is a results-oriented, strategic business leader with a proven record of success working with clients in start-up, turnaround and growth situations. He works with a diverse client base with extensive experience in the real estate, health care, family office and retail sectors. He specializes in providing consulting services including business advice, operation decision making process, acquisition and sale of business, business plans and cash flow projections, estate planning, refinancing and reorganization and special accounting and financial projects. Mayeer has extensive experience in income tax planning, audit and advisory services. He has been involved in audit design, the review of audit findings, audit and accounting research, financial statement preparation, presentations and disclosure.
Mayeer can be relied upon to provide practical business answers as well as solid accounting and tax advice. He takes pride in his personal relationships with clients, and sees his role as that of a friend and trusted adviser to families and closely held businesses.
Mayeer advises and assists many owner managed businesses in the implementation of transitioning to the next generation.
Jeffrey Katz, CPA, Auditor CA, has been an accounting professional since the early 1980’S. He has worked at several top accounting firms including Fuller Landau and Deloitte. In 1999, he established a private practice providing management consulting, accounting, financing, financial planning, tax planning and related services to Corporations of various types and sizes.
He is a professional member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and Quebec Order of Chartered Accountants.
Jeffrey is highly committed to his community and to giving back by participating in several non-profit organizations. Over the years, he has been involved in the B’nai Brith Youth Organization, B’nai Brith Canada (National Financial Steering Committee), Just for Kids Foundation (Founding Treasurer). He is also the Executive Director of the Charles Evelyn & Sandra Dolansky Foundation.
Jeffrey Katz has joined Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada Regional Board of Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University on October 1, 2020.
Richard Charney is a senior partner in the Toronto office of Norton Rose Fulbright Canada LLC, where he practises management labour relations and employment law, a field in which he is widely recognized as an advocate on behalf of national and local clients. For more than 10 years, he was Norton Rose Fulbright’s global head of employment and labour.
Mr. Charney acts for numerous employers and employers’ organizations, appearing at provincial and federal labour relations boards, the courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada, and before rights and interest labour arbitration tribunals. He also advises on all matters of employment and labour law, as well as legislative reform. Mr. Charney’s practice also involves collective bargaining on behalf of employers, employment standards, human rights, wrongful dismissal, workplace health and safety and constitutional law.
He is particularly active as an advocate before national labour tribunals such as the Canada Industrial Relations Board, which has jurisdiction over transportation and similar national industries; the Ontario Labour Relations Board, which has jurisdiction in provincial sectors such as construction; and in judicial review challenges to tribunal determinations in the federal and provincial superior courts.
Mr. Charney is also a leading labour counsel to a variety of well-known arts and cultural organizations in Canada and is the co-author of the award-winning text Judicial Review in Labour Law, and has been an Adjunct Professor at the University of Toronto Faculty of Law.
With over 50 years of experience as a partner, Larry W. Rich has worked extensively with not-for-profits and entrepreneurial clients to achieve their goals. A published author, he has presented on topics such as the Family Law Act and Accountants’ Liability. Larry has been called upon to serve as an expert witness and has been appointed as a consultant in various civil actions. He is a CPA, CA, having earned his designation in 1965 and has completed the Academy of Family Mediators program.
Larry is currently a Fellow and committee member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario. He is a member of the Academy of Family Mediators. He is the Chair of Family Enterprises Interest Group of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada. He is the Treasurer and Board Member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners as well as a Board Member of Beth Sholom Synagogue.
Alexandre Abecassis is a Patent Agent and Senior Partner at the law firm Fasken Martineau.
He joined the firm in 2007 to start and develop a patent prosecution practice in the Montreal office. Through almost 18 years in the field, Mr. Abecassis has developed a solid international practice focused mainly on the high-tech sector, with innovations in software, imaging, electronics and telecommunications. He has also developed solid expertise in protecting innovations related to quantum computing and innovations in the aerospace industry. Mr. Abecassis additionally counsels clients in the areas of patent portfolio management and IP due diligence. He particularly enjoys managing complex IP portfolios and he is widely recognized for his strong business acumen.
Mr Abecassis graduated from Ecole Polytechnique in 2000 with a bachelor in electrical engineering. He is a registered patent agent in Canada and in the US. In 2014, Mr. Abecassis graduated from the PLD program of Harvard Business School.
He is also involved in various organizations at a leadership level. He is a currently a board member of the Akiva school, a board member of the Harvard Club of Quebec and a LP member of CIJA. He joined Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University in 2014 and was Chair of the Young Professional Group for a 2 year term.
Galia is the founder and CEO of Gal Investments, which she has led for more than 13 years, building a diverse portfolio and an impressive track record of successful deals. She is recognized for her strong leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive.
Previously, Galia served as CEO of Fishman Holding North America, where she managed a $1 billion commercial real estate portfolio and 2,000 residential units, overseeing acquisitions, financing, and development.
A licensed CPA in both the United States and Israel, Galia brings a unique combination of financial expertise and innovative thinking to every venture.
Galia is also a passionate supporter of Tel Aviv University, where she serves on the Board of Governors and has sponsored a signature real estate delegation for more than a decade.
Irving’s professional career in public accounting focuses on advisory and business negotiations for a variety of business disciplines.
He is a member of both The Institute of Professional Accountants of Ontario and Canada and both the ADR Institute of Ontario and Canada.
He is past Chair of The Reena Foundation, has served on the Board of the Canadian Centre for Diversity, a founding member of The Professional Advisory Group of the Baycrest Foundation, serves on the Board of Tel Aviv University Canada, and is a member of both Tel Aviv University’s Board of Governors and The Abraham Global Peace Initiative.
Entrepreneur, Community Leader & Philanthropist
William B. Lister, a proud Calgary native, is an entrepreneur, seasoned lawyer, and respected community leader known for his passion for innovation, political engagement, and philanthropy. William has succeeded throughout his career, founding and leading several real estate ventures and earning recognition as a visionary.
Bill’s connection to Israel began at 18 when he attended the Mechina program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong bond, leading him to visit Israel more than 25 times.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill is deeply committed to strengthening the Calgary community. As the founder of the Westman School of Real Estate at the University of Calgary, he has played a pivotal role in advancing real estate education and served as an advisor to the Dean. His dedication to nurturing future leaders reflects his enduring belief in education and mentorship.
A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish causes, Bill and his wife, Lily, have led six trips to Israel, engaging over 140 participants, many from non-Jewish backgrounds. These journeys have fostered understanding and inspired others to create meaningful connections with Israel and its people.
Bill is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting the university’s mission in Alberta and British Columbia, ensuring its continued impact as a global leader in education, innovation, and research. Before the tragic events of October 7th, Bill was set to co-chair a mission of Calgary business leaders to Tel Aviv University with Jason Kenney and Jack Mintz.
An avid golfer, cyclist ane tennis enthusiast, Bill’s athletic accomplishments include qualifying for the Maccabee Tennis Canadian team that competed in Buenos Aires. Married to Lily for 44 years, the couple shares a deep commitment to their shared passions, including their love for Israel. Together, they are proud parents of two children and grandparents to two beloved grandchildren.
Elan Roiz is a Montreal-based entrepreneur, lawyer, and family office principal. Born in Israel in 1977 to Soviet-Ukrainian immigrant parents — both engineers — he grew up in the West Island suburbs of Montreal after his family immigrated to Canada in 1980. He earned his law degree from McGill University in 2004, and was called to the Quebec Bar in February 2006. He is fluent in English, French, and Russian.
His professional career is the story of CEATI International — the Canadian Electricity Association Technologies Inc. — a specialized engineering and management consultancy serving electric power utilities across North America. His father founded CEATI in January 2000 as a spin-off from the Canadian Electricity Association, where he had led the R&D division for a decade. Elan became the company’s pro bono legal counsel within days of starting law school, joined full-time upon his bar call in 2006, and over the following fifteen years took on progressively greater operational and strategic control.
CEATI operated on a subscription model: utilities paid an annual fee to participate in specialized technical programs covering every segment of the power grid — transmission, distribution, hydro generation, asset management, protection and control, and more. Each program paired member utilities with a senior independent consultant and, crucially, with one another. The peer network that formed around the table became as valuable as the technical deliverables themselves. Retention rates reached approximately 95%, and any utility that remained a member for five or more years almost never left.
By the time of the exit, CEATI was working with virtually every major utility in Canada and a substantial portion of those in the United States — including ConEdison, the New York Power Authority, Florida Power and Light, and the Tennessee Valley Authority — as well as a growing international client base. The portfolio at exit was roughly 30% Canadian, 55% American, and 15% international. In September 2020, a private equity firm approached CEATI, attracted by the subscription model and its industry-leading retention profile. The transaction closed February 19, 2021.
Since the exit, Elan has been managing the family office and assessing his next operational move — patient, selective, and clear-eyed about the difference between activity and value. He serves on the Board of Governors of Tel Aviv University through the Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University and is engaged in philanthropic work. He is married with two young sons and is based in Hampstead, Quebec.
Jeff has worked in the financial industry for over 35 years, starting as a Foreign Exchange and Money Market Trader for several major international banks. In 1986, Jeff became a Financial Advisor with a major Canadian investment brokerage firm. Over the past 35-plus years, Jeff has successfully achieved the designations of Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute, Canadian Investment Manager and Designated Portfolio Manager. He is a graduate of the University of Waterloo (B.A Economics, 1979).
Jeff was also an instructor for the Intelligent Investing series of seminars for the Investor Learning Centre from 1997 until 2001. The Investor Learning Centre was a not-for-profit, public educational organization sponsored by the Canadian Securities Institute. In 1998, Jeff became one of five semi-finalists for the coveted I.D.A. Distinction Award sponsored by the Investment Dealers Association of Canada, now known as CIRC.
Jeff is married to Annalee and they have three grown children (Eric, Elizabeth and Stephanie). Jeff has been involved in the Jewish community. He is currently a Governor of Tel Aviv University, past Chairman of the Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University, and Former Treasurer and member of the Board of Directors of the Harold Green Jewish Theatre, as well as past Board Chair of BBYO Toronto, and BBYO International (Washington, D.C).
Stephen came to Tel Aviv University Canada with more than 10 years of experience as a fundraising and communications professional; philanthropic advisor, and senior administrator in the not for profit sector. Stephen has had increasingly senior and significant roles in the not-for-profit sector with Reena Foundation, Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario and most recently the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, where he collaborated with a diverse group of donors and volunteers to provide support to the $60million end MS Campaign and other Society initiatives in Ontario and across Canada.
Stephen holds a Bachelors of Arts from the University of Ottawa, a Post-Graduate Diploma in Corporate Communications from Centennial College and a Certificate in Fund Raising Management from Indiana University, The Center on Philanthropy. In 2013 Stephen was named one of ShalomLife’s Top 20 Under 40 and in 2010, Stephen was nominated as one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40™. Stephen lives in Toronto with his wife Marnie, a television executive, and their two children.
Ontario & Western Canada Regional Committee
David Altshuller is a partner at Ricketts Harris LLP. David has a broad based corporate/commercial litigation practice with an emphasis on franchise disputes, estate matters, shareholder disputes, insolvency/restructuring proceedings, construction disputes and property/leasing matters. When required, he can assemble and manage a team of lawyers across a variety of practice areas in order to deal with his clients’ issues in a thorough and cost-effective manner.
David has spoken at numerous conferences and seminars sponsored by, among others, the Ontario Bar Association and the Canadian Franchise Association.
In 2014, 2015 and 2016 David was listed by Lexpert® as an expert in Franchising Law and selected by Franchise Times Magazine as a “Legal Eagle”. He is also listed in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 editions of Best Lawyers International.
David has a strong connection to TAU. He enrolled in the M.A. Program in Middle Eastern History in 1994. He was a teaching assistant in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) from 1996-1997. He was a lecturer in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) 1997-2000 and was employed as Director of Special Education Programs for TAU/OSP.
Galia is the founder and CEO of Gal Investments, which she has led for more than 13 years, building a diverse portfolio and an impressive track record of successful deals. She is recognized for her strong leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive.
Previously, Galia served as CEO of Fishman Holding North America, where she managed a $1 billion commercial real estate portfolio and 2,000 residential units, overseeing acquisitions, financing, and development.
A licensed CPA in both the United States and Israel, Galia brings a unique combination of financial expertise and innovative thinking to every venture.
Galia is also a passionate supporter of Tel Aviv University, where she serves on the Board of Governors and has sponsored a signature real estate delegation for more than a decade.
Nurit Altman is a Managing Director with RBC Capital Markets Real Estate Group and has over 20 years of experience selling commercial real estate across Canada. Nurit advises clients on the acquisition and disposition of investment properties and over the course of her career, has completed some of Canada’s most significant advisory assignments. Prior to joining RBC, Nurit spent 11 years at Brookfield Financial. Nurit is an active industry participant, having served on the Board of NAIOP, and is a regular speaker at industry forums. Nurit is also an involved member of the Jewish community and has volunteered in a variety of roles for the United Jewish Appeal.
Eric Carmona is a partner in the Real Estate Group at Stikeman Elliott. His practice focuses on commercial real estate and encompasses all aspects of real property transactions, including the purchase, sale and financing of commercial office complexes, retail shopping centres, residential apartment buildings, hotels, retirement homes and long-term residences, as well as secured lending.
Eric is an accomplished real estate lawyer whose capabilities set him apart as one of the country’s leading real estate attorneys.
He is highly regarded for his expert handling of the whole transactional process from financing to purchase, including significant cross-border deals. He has extensive experience in joint venture structuring, portfolio acquisitions, financings and restructurings (acting on behalf of both lending syndicates and corporate borrowers). He is knowledgeable across a range of asset classes including commercial, residential, retail, senior living and industrial.
Eric also practices corporate commercial law, with an emphasis on the acquisition and/or privatization of public real estate enterprises and capital markets transactions. His 30 years of experience has gained him significant exposure to the full spectrum of transactional real estate matters, including acquisitions and dispositions, for both private and public companies and REITs.
Professional Activities
Eric is a member of the Law Society of Ontario and the Canadian Bar Association.
Irving’s professional career in public accounting focuses on advisory and business negotiations for a variety of business disciplines.
He is a member of both The Institute of Professional Accountants of Ontario and Canada and both the ADR Institute of Ontario and Canada.
He is past Chair of The Reena Foundation, has served on the Board of the Canadian Centre for Diversity, a founding member of The Professional Advisory Group of the Baycrest Foundation, serves on the Board of Tel Aviv University Canada, and is a member of both Tel Aviv University’s Board of Governors and The Abraham Global Peace Initiative.
Gabriel Granatstein is the owner and CEO of Canada Tire, a fourth-generation, family-owned tire distributor operating across Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes.
A lawyer by training, Gabriel began his career at Norton Rose Fulbright in Montreal and Toronto, specializing in employment and labour law. He later joined Target Canada as one of its first ten employees, where he built the Employee Relations and legal framework for a workforce that grew to over 20,000 employees nationwide. He subsequently returned to Norton Rose before transitioning into business leadership at Canada Tire.
In parallel with his civilian career, Gabriel has served for more than two decades in the Canadian Armed Forces, where he holds the rank of Major and serves as a Deputy Judge Advocate. He was deployed to Bosnia as part of a multinational peacekeeping mission and has been decorated with the Expeditionary Force Command Commendation, Peacekeeping Service Medal, and European Defense and Security Medal.
Gabriel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from McGill University, a Bachelor of Civil Law from Université de Montréal, and an MBA from the Ivey School of Business at Western University.
Gabriel has served on the Boards of the Scarborough Health Network, the Royal Canadian Military Institute, and Dr. Jay’s Children’s Grief Centre. He is also Chair of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Toronto Chapter, where he works with CEOs across industries to promote leadership development and global business collaboration.
Gabriel balances his professional and community commitments with his family life. He lives in Toronto with his wife and their two children, Cooper (5) and Charlotte (9).
Partner, MLT Aikins
Steven advises clients across Canada, including public companies, private corporations, partnerships and trusts. He is also a trusted advisor to many high-net-worth multi-generational families. Steven’s clients include many of the leading businesses and business leaders in Manitoba, and he has extensive knowledge and market-leading experience in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, real estate development, agriculture, distribution, cannabis, regulated professionals, health care, supply chain logistics, retail operations, and construction. Steven is recognized as a leading lawyer in corporate tax by the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory (since 2012) and Best Lawyers for Tax Law and Trusts and Estates (since 2010).
Steven is deeply committed to the firm and the practice of law. He was previously a member of the Aikins, Macaulay & Thorvaldson Executive Committee and is the current Chair of the MLT Aikins Partner Compensation Committee. Steven previously taught courses at the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Law and for the Law Society of Manitoba’s Bar Admission Course. He has been a frequent speaker and presenter for organizations, including the Canadian Tax Foundation, the Family Enterprise Exchange, Federated Press, and the Law Society of Manitoba.
Steven is also a very active and supportive member of the Winnipeg community, having served on many volunteer boards and committees, including the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Simkin Centre Foundation, the Rose and Max Rady Jewish Community Centre, and St. John’ s-Ravenscourt School.
Entrepreneur, Community Leader & Philanthropist
William B. Lister, a proud Calgary native, is an entrepreneur, seasoned lawyer, and respected community leader known for his passion for innovation, political engagement, and philanthropy. William has succeeded throughout his career, founding and leading several real estate ventures and earning recognition as a visionary.
Bill’s connection to Israel began at 18 when he attended the Mechina program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong bond, leading him to visit Israel more than 25 times.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill is deeply committed to strengthening the Calgary community. As the founder of the Westman School of Real Estate at the University of Calgary, he has played a pivotal role in advancing real estate education and served as an advisor to the Dean. His dedication to nurturing future leaders reflects his enduring belief in education and mentorship.
A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish causes, Bill and his wife, Lily, have led six trips to Israel, engaging over 140 participants, many from non-Jewish backgrounds. These journeys have fostered understanding and inspired others to create meaningful connections with Israel and its people.
Bill is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting the university’s mission in Alberta and British Columbia, ensuring its continued impact as a global leader in education, innovation, and research. Before the tragic events of October 7th, Bill was set to co-chair a mission of Calgary business leaders to Tel Aviv University with Jason Kenney and Jack Mintz.
An avid golfer, cyclist ane tennis enthusiast, Bill’s athletic accomplishments include qualifying for the Maccabee Tennis Canadian team that competed in Buenos Aires. Married to Lily for 44 years, the couple shares a deep commitment to their shared passions, including their love for Israel. Together, they are proud parents of two children and grandparents to two beloved grandchildren.
With over 25 years of experience working with entrepreneurial clients, Mayeer Pearl joined Crowe Soberman’s Audit & Advisory Group as a Partner in 2017. Prior to that, Mayeer was a partner at a local firm for 14 years.
Mayeer is a results-oriented, strategic business leader with a proven record of success working with clients in start-up, turnaround and growth situations. He works with a diverse client base with extensive experience in the real estate, health care, family office and retail sectors. He specializes in providing consulting services including business advice, operation decision making process, acquisition and sale of business, business plans and cash flow projections, estate planning, refinancing and reorganization and special accounting and financial projects. Mayeer has extensive experience in income tax planning, audit and advisory services. He has been involved in audit design, the review of audit findings, audit and accounting research, financial statement preparation, presentations and disclosure.
Mayeer can be relied upon to provide practical business answers as well as solid accounting and tax advice. He takes pride in his personal relationships with clients, and sees his role as that of a friend and trusted adviser to families and closely held businesses.
Mayeer advises and assists many owner managed businesses in the implementation of transitioning to the next generation.
With over 50 years of experience as a partner, Larry W. Rich has worked extensively with not-for-profits and entrepreneurial clients to achieve their goals. A published author, he has presented on topics such as the Family Law Act and Accountants’ Liability. Larry has been called upon to serve as an expert witness and has been appointed as a consultant in various civil actions. He is a CPA, CA, having earned his designation in 1965 and has completed the Academy of Family Mediators program.
Larry is currently a Fellow and committee member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario. He is a member of the Academy of Family Mediators. He is the Chair of Family Enterprises Interest Group of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada. He is the Treasurer and Board Member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners as well as a Board Member of Beth Sholom Synagogue.
Eli Turkienicz, B.Sc., LLB is a prominent real estate developer and investor, successfully launching and completing dozens of multi-million-dollar projects, and gaining expertise in everything from land acquisition, to site plan development, to permits and construction.
A lawyer by training who obtained his LLB at Osgoode in 1988 (after a B.Sc. from the University of Toronto), Eli’s next two decades were with Milton Turk and Sons, where he grew his family development firm’s portfolio to include the acquisition and construction of commercial and industrial buildings and condominiums, multi storey office buildings, and detached and semi-detached residential homes.
In 2010, Eli launched Pinemount Developments, expanding his reach to the rental housing market across and beyond the GTA, with over 1 million square feet either built or planned to date. Eli leads the firm’s operations, playing an active and intimate role with all stakeholders. The industry is Eli’s passion, and he keeps abreast of its evolution and changing market conditions.
Leonard is an economist by training. He has a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a Master’s degree in economics from the University of Toronto and he earned his PhD from MIT. He has taught at the University of Toronto, London Business School, the University of Calgary where he was also Dean of the Haskayne School of Business and McMaster University where he was also the Dean of the DeGroote School of Business until July 2021. His research originally focused on the energy sector where he was founding editor of the Energy Journal. Since the early 1980s, he has turned his attention to the neglected Public Utilities sector and specifically telecommunications. He has published pathbreaking research on the impact of telecommunications and the Internet on economic growth and productivity. Besides this research, he is also being a regulator several times – part time on the Ontario energy board and on the Ontario Telephone Service Commission. While in the UK he was a nonexecutive board member of the Gas and Electric Market Authority. Over this entire period, he’s also been very active in competition policy in research, organizing cross country competition policy interaction and as a consultant.
He is a citizen of both Canada and France. He’s been recognized for his research – for example, the focus section and cover page of the Economist Magazine as well as Global Telecoms Magazine. He has been on the boards of nonprofits in the arts, energy and economic research spaces, start-ups in the UK, and the Canadian board of BNP Paribas Canada. He’s been honored by the French government holding a Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Academiques.
Yair Weisblum is a Partner in PwC Canada’s Financial Services Consulting & Deals practice with more than 15 years of experience. Yair has worked on various assignments with clients, such as large banks and financial institutions in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean. Prior to becoming a consultant, Yair worked at two leading Canadian banks in their eChannels, Marketing and Commercial Banking units.
Yair assists clients with e-Business strategies, information management, commercial and retail banking and process design. His experiences include developing and implementing banking operating models, creating multi-channel strategies, designing business and technology architectures and roadmaps. Yair is a recognized financial services professional, having spoken in several industry forums and published white papers on various topics such as FinTech and customer experience. Yair obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Tel Aviv University and an M.B.A. from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.
David Vernon is Chief Legal Officer at KingSett Capital Inc., a leading Canadian private equity real estate business with $19.5 billion of assets under management. David is responsible for legal strategy, governance, compliance, risk management, insurance, and HR. Prior to joining KingSett, David practiced in the corporate group at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP where he focused on M&A, corporate finance and general corporate matters in the real estate and private equity sectors. David graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School, holds an Honours Business of Administration degree from Ivey Business School at Western University, and was called to the Ontario Bar in 2006. Among his community involvement, David serves on the Board of Directors for TanenbaumCHAT, is a committee member for the Mount Sinai Classic, and is a member of the Governance Committee of the board of Bayview Golf & Country Club.
David Altshuller is a partner at Ricketts Harris LLP. David has a broad based corporate/commercial litigation practice with an emphasis on franchise disputes, estate matters, shareholder disputes, insolvency/restructuring proceedings, construction disputes and property/leasing matters. When required, he can assemble and manage a team of lawyers across a variety of practice areas in order to deal with his clients’ issues in a thorough and cost-effective manner.
David has spoken at numerous conferences and seminars sponsored by, among others, the Ontario Bar Association and the Canadian Franchise Association.
In 2014, 2015 and 2016 David was listed by Lexpert® as an expert in Franchising Law and selected by Franchise Times Magazine as a “Legal Eagle”. He is also listed in the 2015, 2016 and 2017 editions of Best Lawyers International.
David has a strong connection to TAU. He enrolled in the M.A. Program in Middle Eastern History in 1994. He was a teaching assistant in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) from 1996-1997. He was a lecturer in the Overseas Student Program (Modern History of the Middle East) 1997-2000 and was employed as Director of Special Education Programs for TAU/OSP.
Galia is the founder and CEO of Gal Investments, which she has led for more than 13 years, building a diverse portfolio and an impressive track record of successful deals. She is recognized for her strong leadership, creativity, and entrepreneurial drive.
Previously, Galia served as CEO of Fishman Holding North America, where she managed a $1 billion commercial real estate portfolio and 2,000 residential units, overseeing acquisitions, financing, and development.
A licensed CPA in both the United States and Israel, Galia brings a unique combination of financial expertise and innovative thinking to every venture.
Galia is also a passionate supporter of Tel Aviv University, where she serves on the Board of Governors and has sponsored a signature real estate delegation for more than a decade.
Nurit Altman is a Managing Director with RBC Capital Markets Real Estate Group and has over 20 years of experience selling commercial real estate across Canada. Nurit advises clients on the acquisition and disposition of investment properties and over the course of her career, has completed some of Canada’s most significant advisory assignments. Prior to joining RBC, Nurit spent 11 years at Brookfield Financial. Nurit is an active industry participant, having served on the Board of NAIOP, and is a regular speaker at industry forums. Nurit is also an involved member of the Jewish community and has volunteered in a variety of roles for the United Jewish Appeal.
Eric Carmona is a partner in the Real Estate Group at Stikeman Elliott. His practice focuses on commercial real estate and encompasses all aspects of real property transactions, including the purchase, sale and financing of commercial office complexes, retail shopping centres, residential apartment buildings, hotels, retirement homes and long-term residences, as well as secured lending.
Eric is an accomplished real estate lawyer whose capabilities set him apart as one of the country’s leading real estate attorneys.
He is highly regarded for his expert handling of the whole transactional process from financing to purchase, including significant cross-border deals. He has extensive experience in joint venture structuring, portfolio acquisitions, financings and restructurings (acting on behalf of both lending syndicates and corporate borrowers). He is knowledgeable across a range of asset classes including commercial, residential, retail, senior living and industrial.
Eric also practices corporate commercial law, with an emphasis on the acquisition and/or privatization of public real estate enterprises and capital markets transactions. His 30 years of experience has gained him significant exposure to the full spectrum of transactional real estate matters, including acquisitions and dispositions, for both private and public companies and REITs.
Professional Activities
Eric is a member of the Law Society of Ontario and the Canadian Bar Association.
Irving’s professional career in public accounting focuses on advisory and business negotiations for a variety of business disciplines.
He is a member of both The Institute of Professional Accountants of Ontario and Canada and both the ADR Institute of Ontario and Canada.
He is past Chair of The Reena Foundation, has served on the Board of the Canadian Centre for Diversity, a founding member of The Professional Advisory Group of the Baycrest Foundation, serves on the Board of Tel Aviv University Canada, and is a member of both Tel Aviv University’s Board of Governors and The Abraham Global Peace Initiative.
Gabriel Granatstein is the owner and CEO of Canada Tire, a fourth-generation, family-owned tire distributor operating across Ontario, Quebec, and the Maritimes.
A lawyer by training, Gabriel began his career at Norton Rose Fulbright in Montreal and Toronto, specializing in employment and labour law. He later joined Target Canada as one of its first ten employees, where he built the Employee Relations and legal framework for a workforce that grew to over 20,000 employees nationwide. He subsequently returned to Norton Rose before transitioning into business leadership at Canada Tire.
In parallel with his civilian career, Gabriel has served for more than two decades in the Canadian Armed Forces, where he holds the rank of Major and serves as a Deputy Judge Advocate. He was deployed to Bosnia as part of a multinational peacekeeping mission and has been decorated with the Expeditionary Force Command Commendation, Peacekeeping Service Medal, and European Defense and Security Medal.
Gabriel holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from McGill University, a Bachelor of Civil Law from Université de Montréal, and an MBA from the Ivey School of Business at Western University.
Gabriel has served on the Boards of the Scarborough Health Network, the Royal Canadian Military Institute, and Dr. Jay’s Children’s Grief Centre. He is also Chair of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) Toronto Chapter, where he works with CEOs across industries to promote leadership development and global business collaboration.
Gabriel balances his professional and community commitments with his family life. He lives in Toronto with his wife and their two children, Cooper (5) and Charlotte (9).
Partner, MLT Aikins
Steven advises clients across Canada, including public companies, private corporations, partnerships and trusts. He is also a trusted advisor to many high-net-worth multi-generational families. Steven’s clients include many of the leading businesses and business leaders in Manitoba, and he has extensive knowledge and market-leading experience in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, real estate development, agriculture, distribution, cannabis, regulated professionals, health care, supply chain logistics, retail operations, and construction. Steven is recognized as a leading lawyer in corporate tax by the Canadian Legal Lexpert Directory (since 2012) and Best Lawyers for Tax Law and Trusts and Estates (since 2010).
Steven is deeply committed to the firm and the practice of law. He was previously a member of the Aikins, Macaulay & Thorvaldson Executive Committee and is the current Chair of the MLT Aikins Partner Compensation Committee. Steven previously taught courses at the University of Manitoba, Faculty of Law and for the Law Society of Manitoba’s Bar Admission Course. He has been a frequent speaker and presenter for organizations, including the Canadian Tax Foundation, the Family Enterprise Exchange, Federated Press, and the Law Society of Manitoba.
Steven is also a very active and supportive member of the Winnipeg community, having served on many volunteer boards and committees, including the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, the Simkin Centre Foundation, the Rose and Max Rady Jewish Community Centre, and St. John’ s-Ravenscourt School.
Entrepreneur, Community Leader & Philanthropist
William B. Lister, a proud Calgary native, is an entrepreneur, seasoned lawyer, and respected community leader known for his passion for innovation, political engagement, and philanthropy. William has succeeded throughout his career, founding and leading several real estate ventures and earning recognition as a visionary.
Bill’s connection to Israel began at 18 when he attended the Mechina program at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. This transformative experience ignited a lifelong bond, leading him to visit Israel more than 25 times.
Beyond his professional achievements, Bill is deeply committed to strengthening the Calgary community. As the founder of the Westman School of Real Estate at the University of Calgary, he has played a pivotal role in advancing real estate education and served as an advisor to the Dean. His dedication to nurturing future leaders reflects his enduring belief in education and mentorship.
A passionate advocate for Israel and Jewish causes, Bill and his wife, Lily, have led six trips to Israel, engaging over 140 participants, many from non-Jewish backgrounds. These journeys have fostered understanding and inspired others to create meaningful connections with Israel and its people.
Bill is dedicated to raising awareness and supporting the university’s mission in Alberta and British Columbia, ensuring its continued impact as a global leader in education, innovation, and research. Before the tragic events of October 7th, Bill was set to co-chair a mission of Calgary business leaders to Tel Aviv University with Jason Kenney and Jack Mintz.
An avid golfer, cyclist ane tennis enthusiast, Bill’s athletic accomplishments include qualifying for the Maccabee Tennis Canadian team that competed in Buenos Aires. Married to Lily for 44 years, the couple shares a deep commitment to their shared passions, including their love for Israel. Together, they are proud parents of two children and grandparents to two beloved grandchildren.
With over 25 years of experience working with entrepreneurial clients, Mayeer Pearl joined Crowe Soberman’s Audit & Advisory Group as a Partner in 2017. Prior to that, Mayeer was a partner at a local firm for 14 years.
Mayeer is a results-oriented, strategic business leader with a proven record of success working with clients in start-up, turnaround and growth situations. He works with a diverse client base with extensive experience in the real estate, health care, family office and retail sectors. He specializes in providing consulting services including business advice, operation decision making process, acquisition and sale of business, business plans and cash flow projections, estate planning, refinancing and reorganization and special accounting and financial projects. Mayeer has extensive experience in income tax planning, audit and advisory services. He has been involved in audit design, the review of audit findings, audit and accounting research, financial statement preparation, presentations and disclosure.
Mayeer can be relied upon to provide practical business answers as well as solid accounting and tax advice. He takes pride in his personal relationships with clients, and sees his role as that of a friend and trusted adviser to families and closely held businesses.
Mayeer advises and assists many owner managed businesses in the implementation of transitioning to the next generation.
With over 50 years of experience as a partner, Larry W. Rich has worked extensively with not-for-profits and entrepreneurial clients to achieve their goals. A published author, he has presented on topics such as the Family Law Act and Accountants’ Liability. Larry has been called upon to serve as an expert witness and has been appointed as a consultant in various civil actions. He is a CPA, CA, having earned his designation in 1965 and has completed the Academy of Family Mediators program.
Larry is currently a Fellow and committee member of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Ontario. He is a member of the Academy of Family Mediators. He is the Chair of Family Enterprises Interest Group of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada. He is the Treasurer and Board Member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners as well as a Board Member of Beth Sholom Synagogue.
Eli Turkienicz, B.Sc., LLB is a prominent real estate developer and investor, successfully launching and completing dozens of multi-million-dollar projects, and gaining expertise in everything from land acquisition, to site plan development, to permits and construction.
A lawyer by training who obtained his LLB at Osgoode in 1988 (after a B.Sc. from the University of Toronto), Eli’s next two decades were with Milton Turk and Sons, where he grew his family development firm’s portfolio to include the acquisition and construction of commercial and industrial buildings and condominiums, multi storey office buildings, and detached and semi-detached residential homes.
In 2010, Eli launched Pinemount Developments, expanding his reach to the rental housing market across and beyond the GTA, with over 1 million square feet either built or planned to date. Eli leads the firm’s operations, playing an active and intimate role with all stakeholders. The industry is Eli’s passion, and he keeps abreast of its evolution and changing market conditions.
Leonard is an economist by training. He has a Bachelor of Commerce degree and a Master’s degree in economics from the University of Toronto and he earned his PhD from MIT. He has taught at the University of Toronto, London Business School, the University of Calgary where he was also Dean of the Haskayne School of Business and McMaster University where he was also the Dean of the DeGroote School of Business until July 2021. His research originally focused on the energy sector where he was founding editor of the Energy Journal. Since the early 1980s, he has turned his attention to the neglected Public Utilities sector and specifically telecommunications. He has published pathbreaking research on the impact of telecommunications and the Internet on economic growth and productivity. Besides this research, he is also being a regulator several times – part time on the Ontario energy board and on the Ontario Telephone Service Commission. While in the UK he was a nonexecutive board member of the Gas and Electric Market Authority. Over this entire period, he’s also been very active in competition policy in research, organizing cross country competition policy interaction and as a consultant.
He is a citizen of both Canada and France. He’s been recognized for his research – for example, the focus section and cover page of the Economist Magazine as well as Global Telecoms Magazine. He has been on the boards of nonprofits in the arts, energy and economic research spaces, start-ups in the UK, and the Canadian board of BNP Paribas Canada. He’s been honored by the French government holding a Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes Academiques.
…
Yair Weisblum is a Partner in PwC Canada’s Financial Services Consulting & Deals practice with more than 15 years of experience. Yair has worked on various assignments with clients, such as large banks and financial institutions in Canada, the United States and the Caribbean. Prior to becoming a consultant, Yair worked at two leading Canadian banks in their eChannels, Marketing and Commercial Banking units.
Yair assists clients with e-Business strategies, information management, commercial and retail banking and process design. His experiences include developing and implementing banking operating models, creating multi-channel strategies, designing business and technology architectures and roadmaps. Yair is a recognized financial services professional, having spoken in several industry forums and published white papers on various topics such as FinTech and customer experience. Yair obtained a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Tel Aviv University and an M.B.A. from the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto.
David Vernon is Chief Legal Officer at KingSett Capital Inc., a leading Canadian private equity real estate business with $19.5 billion of assets under management. David is responsible for legal strategy, governance, compliance, risk management, insurance, and HR. Prior to joining KingSett, David practiced in the corporate group at Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP where he focused on M&A, corporate finance and general corporate matters in the real estate and private equity sectors. David graduated from Osgoode Hall Law School, holds an Honours Business of Administration degree from Ivey Business School at Western University, and was called to the Ontario Bar in 2006. Among his community involvement, David serves on the Board of Directors for TanenbaumCHAT, is a committee member for the Mount Sinai Classic, and is a member of the Governance Committee of the board of Bayview Golf & Country Club.
Quebec & Atlantic Canada Regional Committee
Stewart Litvack is a Founding Partner at Litvack Sherman LLP, a distinguished boutique law firm that focuses on Family Law, and Estate and Trust Litigation. Stewart is highly regarded in the legal community and frequently sought after for his insights on complex legal matters. He has extensive experience pleading before the Superior Court of Quebec, the Quebec Court of Appeal and has won a landmark case at the Supreme Court of Canada.
Beyond his legal practice, Stewart is highly engaged in innovating the family law sector, and is passionate about reshaping the way family lawyers practice. To this end, he has developed a cloud-based platform for family lawyers that assists them in modernizing their practices and leveraging AI.
Stewart holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University with a major in Finance as well as a Civil Law Degree from the University of Montreal. He is a husband and father of four young children, and an active and committed member of the Tel Aviv University Canada community, including sitting on the National Board and currently serving as the Regional Chair for Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. He also holds the distinguished position of TAU Governor
Alexandre Abecassis is a Patent Agent and Senior Partner at the law firm Fasken Martineau.
He joined the firm in 2007 to start and develop a patent prosecution practice in the Montreal office. Through almost 18 years in the field, Mr. Abecassis has developed a solid international practice focused mainly on the high-tech sector, with innovations in software, imaging, electronics and telecommunications. He has also developed solid expertise in protecting innovations related to quantum computing and innovations in the aerospace industry. Mr. Abecassis additionally counsels clients in the areas of patent portfolio management and IP due diligence. He particularly enjoys managing complex IP portfolios and he is widely recognized for his strong business acumen.
Mr Abecassis graduated from Ecole Polytechnique in 2000 with a bachelor in electrical engineering. He is a registered patent agent in Canada and in the US. In 2014, Mr. Abecassis graduated from the PLD program of Harvard Business School.
He is also involved in various organizations at a leadership level. He is a currently a board member of the Akiva school, a board member of the Harvard Club of Quebec and a LP member of CIJA. He joined Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University in 2014 and was Chair of the Young Professional Group for a 2 year term.
Yasef Eli is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with over 35 years of experience in the accounting profession.
Accounting runs in the family: both his grandfather and father were accountants. From his childhood, Yasef Eli remembers noting the perseverance, attention to detail, and concentration that his father applied on his files as he added columns of figures in his head.
Yasef Eli is a member of the Quebec CPA Order (Ordre des comptables professionnels agrées du Québec) and has been a CPA member since 1994. He became a Certified Public Accountant, State of Illinois, in 1999.
Daniel Herrera Assayag is an experienced commercial leader with an impressive track record spanning over two decades in sales, marketing and global business development, in the pharma, cannabis and psychedelic industries. His experience has been mainly focused on highly regulated environments. Throughout his career, Daniel has demonstrated remarkable success in driving growth and fostering strategic partnerships across diverse international markets. He has worked extensively across Europe, Asia, Australia and LATAM, showcasing a keen cultural sensitivity that has been instrumental in building strong, collaborative relationships and ensuring successful outcomes for a broad range of stakeholders.
Daniel holds a B.Sc in Physiology from McGill university, a M.Sc. in Pharmacology from Universite de Montreal, and an MBA from Concordia.
Daniel is involved in various groups in our community. He is an active CJA canvasser, and has served on the board of the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue where he was executive committee chair for new family memberships between 2018-2020.
Daniel is CEO and co-founder of a health tech startup at Futuresight Ventures and Director of business development at Aurora Cannabis where he leads the pharmaceutical team globally. He is principal of a consulting firm he founded, where his team offers a wide range of services, such as strategic planning, product development, regulatory strategy, marketing, and operational improvement.
Heidi Isaacson’s career spans over thirty years in service industries, including corporate relocation (employee mobility), law, private banking, corporate finance, vendor management, and real estate administration. As an operations and customer service specialist, Heidi has launched her own businesses, as well as developed and launched new products and services for global companies.
A true Montrealer and entrepreneur at heart, Heidi’s newest company is geared towards helping individuals and businesses get organized with life’s many responsibilities.
Heidi has volunteered for the Quebec Special Olympics, the Mackay Center’s Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program, the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Campaigns, as well as for various hospitals in Montreal.
Heidi spent eight years as the Vice-President of the Canadian Foundation for Animal Assisted Support Services, working towards streamlining industry standards and certification options for working canine teams. In 2006, Heidi combined a passion for working dogs with a passion for helping people, and built an online platform for teams used by police and military, search and rescue, service and assistance, as well as for related industry providers.
Jeffrey Katz, CPA, Auditor CA, has been an accounting professional since the early 1980’S. He has worked at several top accounting firms including Fuller Landau and Deloitte. In 1999, he established a private practice providing management consulting, accounting, financing, financial planning, tax planning and related services to Corporations of various types and sizes.
He is a professional member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and Quebec Order of Chartered Accountants.
Jeffrey is highly committed to his community and to giving back by participating in several non-profit organizations. Over the years, he has been involved in the B’nai Brith Youth Organization, B’nai Brith Canada (National Financial Steering Committee), Just for Kids Foundation (Founding Treasurer). He is also the Executive Director of the Charles Evelyn & Sandra Dolansky Foundation.
Jeffrey Katz has joined Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada Regional Board of Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University on October 1, 2020.
Brenda Langburt is an accomplished entrepreneur and sales executive with over three decades of experience in business development. She founded and successfully grew a computer training products company, which was sold to a major U.S. publishing conglomerate.
Brenda has a proven track record of driving sales and growth in various sectors, including e-learning, educational technology, healthcare education and more recently in cyber defence. Her expertise includes building strategic partnerships and developing key client relationships. Brenda has leveraged these skills beyond the corporate sector, having led fundraising initiatives for a non-profit organization and having been involved in many fundraising and volunteer activities.
Brenda holds an MSc in Communications from Boston University and a BA in Economics/Political Science from the University of Western OntarioJamie Silver – Aquila Textiles
Stewart Litvack is a Founding Partner at Litvack Sherman LLP, a distinguished boutique law firm that focuses on Family Law, and Estate and Trust Litigation. Stewart is highly regarded in the legal community and frequently sought after for his insights on complex legal matters. He has extensive experience pleading before the Superior Court of Quebec, the Quebec Court of Appeal and has won a landmark case at the Supreme Court of Canada.
Beyond his legal practice, Stewart is highly engaged in innovating the family law sector, and is passionate about reshaping the way family lawyers practice. To this end, he has developed a cloud-based platform for family lawyers that assists them in modernizing their practices and leveraging AI.
Stewart holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University with a major in Finance as well as a Civil Law Degree from the University of Montreal. He is a husband and father of four young children, and an active and committed member of the Tel Aviv University Canada community, including sitting on the National Board and currently serving as the Regional Chair for Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. He also holds the distinguished position of TAU Governor
Alexandre Abecassis is a Patent Agent and Senior Partner at the law firm Fasken Martineau.
He joined the firm in 2007 to start and develop a patent prosecution practice in the Montreal office. Through almost 18 years in the field, Mr. Abecassis has developed a solid international practice focused mainly on the high-tech sector, with innovations in software, imaging, electronics and telecommunications. He has also developed solid expertise in protecting innovations related to quantum computing and innovations in the aerospace industry. Mr. Abecassis additionally counsels clients in the areas of patent portfolio management and IP due diligence. He particularly enjoys managing complex IP portfolios and he is widely recognized for his strong business acumen.
Mr Abecassis graduated from Ecole Polytechnique in 2000 with a bachelor in electrical engineering. He is a registered patent agent in Canada and in the US. In 2014, Mr. Abecassis graduated from the PLD program of Harvard Business School.
He is also involved in various organizations at a leadership level. He is a currently a board member of the Akiva school, a board member of the Harvard Club of Quebec and a LP member of CIJA. He joined Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University in 2014 and was Chair of the Young Professional Group for a 2 year term.
Yasef Eli is a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) with over 35 years of experience in the accounting profession.
Accounting runs in the family: both his grandfather and father were accountants. From his childhood, Yasef Eli remembers noting the perseverance, attention to detail, and concentration that his father applied on his files as he added columns of figures in his head.
Yasef Eli is a member of the Quebec CPA Order (Ordre des comptables professionnels agrées du Québec) and has been a CPA member since 1994. He became a Certified Public Accountant, State of Illinois, in 1999.
Daniel Herrera Assayag is an experienced commercial leader with an impressive track record spanning over two decades in sales, marketing and global business development, in the pharma, cannabis and psychedelic industries. His experience has been mainly focused on highly regulated environments. Throughout his career, Daniel has demonstrated remarkable success in driving growth and fostering strategic partnerships across diverse international markets. He has worked extensively across Europe, Asia, Australia and LATAM, showcasing a keen cultural sensitivity that has been instrumental in building strong, collaborative relationships and ensuring successful outcomes for a broad range of stakeholders.
Daniel holds a B.Sc in Physiology from McGill university, a M.Sc. in Pharmacology from Universite de Montreal, and an MBA from Concordia.
Daniel is involved in various groups in our community. He is an active CJA canvasser, and has served on the board of the Spanish and Portuguese Synagogue where he was executive committee chair for new family memberships between 2018-2020.
Daniel is CEO and co-founder of a health tech startup at Futuresight Ventures and Director of business development at Aurora Cannabis where he leads the pharmaceutical team globally. He is principal of a consulting firm he founded, where his team offers a wide range of services, such as strategic planning, product development, regulatory strategy, marketing, and operational improvement.
Heidi Isaacson’s career spans over thirty years in service industries, including corporate relocation (employee mobility), law, private banking, corporate finance, vendor management, and real estate administration. As an operations and customer service specialist, Heidi has launched her own businesses, as well as developed and launched new products and services for global companies.
A true Montrealer and entrepreneur at heart, Heidi’s newest company is geared towards helping individuals and businesses get organized with life’s many responsibilities.
Heidi has volunteered for the Quebec Special Olympics, the Mackay Center’s Therapeutic Horseback Riding Program, the Canadian Cancer Society’s Daffodil Campaigns, as well as for various hospitals in Montreal.
Heidi spent eight years as the Vice-President of the Canadian Foundation for Animal Assisted Support Services, working towards streamlining industry standards and certification options for working canine teams. In 2006, Heidi combined a passion for working dogs with a passion for helping people, and built an online platform for teams used by police and military, search and rescue, service and assistance, as well as for related industry providers.
Jeffrey Katz, CPA, Auditor CA, has been an accounting professional since the early 1980’S. He has worked at several top accounting firms including Fuller Landau and Deloitte. In 1999, he established a private practice providing management consulting, accounting, financing, financial planning, tax planning and related services to Corporations of various types and sizes.
He is a professional member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and Quebec Order of Chartered Accountants.
Jeffrey is highly committed to his community and to giving back by participating in several non-profit organizations. Over the years, he has been involved in the B’nai Brith Youth Organization, B’nai Brith Canada (National Financial Steering Committee), Just for Kids Foundation (Founding Treasurer). He is also the Executive Director of the Charles Evelyn & Sandra Dolansky Foundation.
Jeffrey Katz has joined Ottawa, Quebec and Atlantic Canada Regional Board of Canadian Friends of Tel Aviv University on October 1, 2020.
Brenda Langburt is an accomplished entrepreneur and sales executive with over three decades of experience in business development. She founded and successfully grew a computer training products company, which was sold to a major U.S. publishing conglomerate.
Brenda has a proven track record of driving sales and growth in various sectors, including e-learning, educational technology, healthcare education and more recently in cyber defence. Her expertise includes building strategic partnerships and developing key client relationships. Brenda has leveraged these skills beyond the corporate sector, having led fundraising initiatives for a non-profit organization and having been involved in many fundraising and volunteer activities.
Brenda holds an MSc in Communications from Boston University and a BA in Economics/Political Science from the University of Western OntarioJamie Silver – Aquila Textiles
