Mike Wise Takes Helm at 18Doors
Wise will serve as chief executive officer for the organization beginning Feb. 17.
18Doors, the leading national organization dedicated to empowering people in interfaith relationships and fostering inclusive Jewish communities, is pleased to announce the appointment of Michael (Mike) Wise as its next chief executive officer. Wise, the founder and former co-CEO of Honeymoon Israel, will officially step into the role on Feb. 17, 2025.
Before founding Honeymoon Israel in 2014, Wise served as CEO/executive director of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo. He has also held leadership roles as CEO of the JCCs of Greater Atlanta and CEO of the Jewish community board of Akron, where he spearheaded the restructuring of the local Jewish communal system—now regarded as a national model for small and mid-sized communities.
Originally from Minnesota, Wise earned a B.S. from the University of Minnesota and a Master of social work from the University at Buffalo.
Laurie Beijen, 18Doors board chair, expressed her enthusiasm for Wise’s selection, “We know that Mike will help to innovate and accelerate our mission and vision: that people in interfaith and/or multicultural relationships are welcomed and embraced by Jewish communities and contribute to Judaism’s enduring strength and continuity. Simply put, we can’t wait to see what’s next for 18Doors!”
Wise said, “I am deeply honored to assume the CEO role at 18Doors (formerly InterfaithFamily) and continue to build on the success of the program over the last 25-plus years. I am moved to continue the work I have done welcoming young couples into the Jewish community and Jewish people. With more than a 75 percent interfaith marriage rate among non-Orthodox Jews, it is critical for the Jewish community to welcome these couples who are Jewish and support them in building a Jewish home in whatever ways work for them. My work as founder and co-CEO of Honeymoon Israel is but one great example of the potential of deep engagement with couples coming from multiple faith backgrounds. Our deep commitment to working with and training rabbis is another critical piece of our work on behalf of the Jewish community. I welcome your thoughts and ideas to enhance the work of 18Doors. My thanks to the board and leadership for the opportunity to continue this work critical to the Jewish people.”
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