From the Office of the President

Dear USY leaders and staff,

For the past nine months, it has been my honor and privilege to serve as the president of this powerful movement. I have met so many passionate teens, all of whom desire to build a better world.

I am so proud of the work that we’ve accomplished so far, not merely as a small group of individuals, but as a large network of passion and devoted people. 

Noah Lee (far right) posing with CRUSY leadership

Personally speaking, I am so grateful for the opportunity to serve this organization. More than anything, I have learned how much a unified vision paired with action can accomplish.

While visiting the CRUSY specialty convention last March, I joined the region in acts of tikun olam (repairing the world) at the local food shelter and additionally heard and studied the following phrase from our Talmud: אל תקרי בניך אלא בוניך, “Rather than reading ‘children,’ read ‘builders.’”

USY President Noah Lee speaking at CRUSY Specialty Kinnus

I pondered how our tradition values building a better world and even makes the bold observation that “children” and “builders”come from the same Hebrew root. In light of these words, I am so proud of our commitment to youth empowerment as we strive to dwell in a more perfect world in service of God and goodness.

Noah Lee participates in a tikun olam fundraiser

We still have so much unrealized potential, and I am eager to see all that you amount to as the forces driving our people forward.

Stay tuned for updates about what the International Executive and General Board has been up to in the coming weeks and thank you in advance for all you do.

With love and gratitude,

Noah Lee