Ida S. Mandell Event

About the Ida S. Mandell Event 

 Held in the spring, the Mandell Event is the premier program of our year. This, along with our High Holiday appeal, is our major fundraising event. We have had top performers, speakers and notable leaders grace our stage from Itzhak Perlman and Benjamin Netanyahu to Richard Lewis. The evening typically includes a dinner, show featuring our talent, and after party. 

 History

In 1982, Aaron N. Cohen, then President of Adath Israel, asked Mrs. Samuel Mandell to chair a concert celebrating the 35th anniversary of the congregation, the proceeds of which would help support the financial needs of Adath Israel. Samuel and Ida Mandell were well-known in Philadelphia religious and secular philanthropic circles and shared a vision of broadened connections between the synagogue membership and the contemporary political and cultural world. Ida Mandell, an elegant and energetic woman, quickly agreed to the request, and “An Evening with Roberta Peters” went on to become an unqualified success.

Ida Mandell’s unfortunate passing only six months later brought an opportunity to honor her life of joy, optimism and inclusion by the decision of the synagogue leadership to name this annual event in her memory. The Mandell Family, both personally and through the Samuel P. Mandell Foundation, has been steadfast in their support of this annual event and of Adath Israel.

Ida and Samuel Mandell held a special place in their hearts for Adath Israel, celebrating simchas for their children, Dr. Morton, Ronald z”l, Sonny z”l, Dr. Gerald and Judy here, just as their grandchildren and great-grandchildren continue the tradition today.

Ida Mandell’s caring, energy and vision have extended far beyond her own life and touched many who did not have the opportunity to know her personally. May her memory ever be for a blessing.

Past Mandell Event Talent

2005 - Dave Barry
2006 - Sandy Berger
2007 - Michael Feinstein
2008 - Itzhak Perlman
2009 - Richard Lewis
2010 - Christine Ebersole
2011 - Senator Bill Bradley
2012 - Peter Nero
2013 - Michael Cavanaugh
2014 - Paul Reiser
2015 - Stars from America's Got Talent
2016 - Max Weinberg
2017 - Kevin Nealon
2018 - Benj Pasek
2019 - Jason Alexander
2020- Dr. Ruth Westheimer
2021 - Mike Reiss - Simpson's Writer
2022 - Richard Kind
2023 - Kevin Pollak