I was recently nominated to apply to a prestigious Jewish lay leadership development program. I was honored to be nominated and then a bit surprised, when told I was not able to apply due to the fact that I am a Jewish Communal Professional. I was informed that they had outstanding programs for Jewish professionals (which is absolutely true) and that this program was specifically for lay leaders in the community. Truthfully, it never occurred to me not to apply based on my role as an Executive Director of a Jewish not-for-profit. I was applying to the program based on my current board service in the Jewish community (Moishe House, Community Foundation for Jewish Education – JUF Chicago and AIJC – The Association of Independent Jewish Camps) and my desire to commit even more fully in the future.