ADL Board Member Sharon Schonhaut talks about her passion for the Fourth of July, anything with milk chocolate and, of course, ADL.
How are you involved with ADL?
Over the years, I’ve served on lots of ADL committees (Education, Civil Rights, Centennial Celebration, Strategic Programming, etc.) and now it is an honor to be on the Regional Board.
What do you do in your professional life?
I am Director of Education and Foundation for the Society of Mining, Metallurgy & Exploration. This position combines my past employment as an educator and fundraiser for various educational institutions and other non-profit organizations.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
Growing up in Brooklyn, NY, I wanted to be a cowgirl – probably why I’m so happy living in Colorado now.
What’s your favorite holiday?
4th of July – summertime, BBQ and fireworks
What’s your favorite food?
Anything with milk chocolate.
What would be impossible for you to give up?
Anything with milk chocolate.
What teacher or class stands out to you the most in your education and why?
Ted Bell was the most outstanding graduate school professor and eventual supervisor and personal friend. He took time with each student and gave me opportunities I had never dreamed possible.
What are you passionate about personally? What can’t you stop talking about?
Experiencing live theater, concerts and other events. Everyone needs to support the arts.
If you had to teach something, what would you teach?
The lessons of No Place For Hate. Everyone needs to take a stand against bias and bigotry.
Tell me a story that immediately pops into your mind that was a defining or significant moment for you.
When I lived in Salt Lake City, a good friend used the term “getting Jewed down” when talking about a business transaction. Growing up in NYC, I had never heard that expression and I sharply realized that negative stereotypes about Jewish people are commonly used by even well-meaning people.
What is your earliest memory of ADL?
Meeting with a committed group of people to promote the A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute made me realize how Denver’s Jewish community was involved in education and anti-bias outreach to all people.
How did you first become involved in ADL?
I was invited to participate on A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Institute advisory committee on behalf of Denver Public Schools.
Why do you choose to make a financial investment in ADL?
Being able to support ADL is like helping your own family, sometimes even better. ADL is always in the forefront of researching issues of importance related to our mission and then taking action to ensure justice and fair treatment to all.
Complete this sentence: For me, the ADL is …
The joining of community for doing what is right, often when it is not popular.