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The JINSA family is deeply saddened by the news that JINSA Executive Director Emeritus, Tom Neumann, passed away early this morning in Houston at the age of 69. We extend our deepest condolences to Tom's beloved wife Agnes and all of his family.

 

Tom joined JINSA as Executive Director in 1991, and ran the organization until his retirement in 2012. By dint of his boundless energy and personality, he made JINSA a leading voice on U.S. national security and U.S.-Israel security ties, one that is highly respected in Washington, Jerusalem, and beyond.

 

The force of his personality made him a compelling and irresistible figure. In 1999, the Forward named Tom one of the nation's most influential Jewish leaders. He was a moving speaker, writer, and radio and television commentator, and addressed audiences on Capitol Hill, university faculties, religious and social organizations, and public and private schools on issues of national security and related concerns. He also consulted for and advised many major national and local political candidates on national security and Jewish issues.

 

Prior to JINSA, Tom served as the Executive Vice President of B'nai B'rith International, and also held a number of Senior Executive positions at the Anti-Defamation League (ADL). Tom also founded several organizations, including The Houston Center for International Affairs, the Christian-Jewish Committee for Israel and Texas 1990.

 

On a personal note, I will always remain indebted to Tom for what he taught me and all the help he gave me in the 18 months I have served as CEO. I will cherish his generosity of spirit and the time that he freely gave me.

 

Tom remained loyal to JINSA and its mission until his dying day, and we intend to honor him more formally in the near future.

 

Tom's funeral will be held this Thursday at 11:00 am local time at Emanu El Memorial Park, at 8341 Bissonnet, in Houston, Texas.

 

May Tom Neumann's memory be for a blessing.