Jewish Chicago Magazine

Ruthie brings all of her energy to the table as a Jewish communal leader, philanthropist, and parent to a proud Jewish family.

Before staying at home with her third child, she was the Senior Director of Technical Program Management at Myriad Genetics, where her work connected to reproductive and women’s health, and to prevention of genetic diseases. She received a CEO Award at her company for her impact.

Ruthie, a Lion of Judah donor—who contributes an individual annual gift of $5,000 or more—has leaned into lay leadership. Her involvement includes serving as Vice President of Outreach and Engagement on JUF Women’s Philanthropy Young Women’s Board, on the Norton & Elaine Sarnoff Center for Jewish Genetics Associate Board, and on the JUF Teens 18 under 18 Review Committee. She cares deeply about making service accessible, and spearheaded food and backpack kit collections in Vernon Hills through her work on JUF Tikkun Olam Volunteer Network (TOV) Nourish our Neighborhoods committee.

She is also passionate about growing Jewish life in Lake County, and hosted the area’s first Jewish women’s events with Chabad of Lake Zurich—creating friendships and momentum for a strong local Jewish presence. 

Age: 36

Primary gig: Full-time mom; formerly the Senior Director of Technical Program Management at Myriad Genetics

On the side: Actively involved in Jewish philanthropy; mom of three, organizer of local women’s events, fitness enthusiast.

A Jew who inspires you: My mom. When I was four months old, she left Belarus with my dad and moved to Israel so our family could have a better Jewish life. She left behind her family, friends, language, and everything she knew to build something new. Together, my parents created a life for us in Israel, and then they made another brave move to the United States so my brother and I could have even more opportunities.

She celebrates every holiday, hosts legendary Chanukah parties, and makes Judaism feel joyful, welcoming, and full of life.

What is your proudest accomplishment? My proudest accomplishment is marrying my husband and building a proud Jewish family together. Over the last 10 years, we have created a home rooted in love, tradition, community, and Jewish pride. Raising our three children to feel connected to who they are, through Shabbat dinners, holidays, giving back, and being part of Jewish life in Chicago, has been the greatest honor of my life.

I am proud that our children are growing up seeing Judaism as something joyful, meaningful, and active. They see us show up for our community, welcome people into our home, and care about helping others. To me, that is the most important legacy we can build.