BS”D

Mrs. Carol LeWitt is a dynamic Jewish woman and mother, currently residing in Connecticut state, who is dedicated to her heritage and a paradigm of generosity, as a noted benefactor of various Jewish establishments.  We are grateful to her for drawing the time out of her busy schedule to share her story with us in an interview with Jewish Girls Unite.  It is a delight to nominate her one of our “Women of Valor” as we build up towards publishing the third JGU publication, on “Aishes Chayil,” entitled: Weaving the Tapestry: Stories of Inspiring Women of Valor.  Mazal Tov, Carol, and thank you for being part of this initiative!

Mrs. Carol LeWitt

***********

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I was born and grew up in Livingston, New Jersey.  I went through the NJ State College system, studying at Ramapo and Montclair State.  I majored in Art History and studio art.  When I graduated, I moved to Manhattan and worked for several prominent artists and galleries.  I have lived in Connecticut for more than thirty years.  I imported Italian pottery for decades, and had a chain of retail stores.  I have now retired from that work and am active restoring historic properties and volunteering for my synagogue in Chester, CT.  I am currently Chair of the Yale University Art Gallery Governing Board.

Could you perhaps share a story of a personal struggle you experienced, and how you overcame it?

My beloved husband died of a prolonged illness with metastatic colon cancer when my children were young adults.  I learned how to be patient in the face of adversity and make the most of every day to do good works.

Do you have a mission and vision that you seek to accomplish through your giving?  

I lived on New York’s Lower East Side for many years, beginning in the mid-1970s.  At the time, the neighborhood was predominantly Jewish.  We always followed the good work of the Rebbe that was in our neighborhood, and in infinite other communities.  I am an active Jewish philanthropist, and always support Chabad for their embracing outreach, and dissemination and preservation of Jewish tradition.

What is your signature or concluding message to Jewish girls worldwide?

In a world of anxiety provoking daily developments, Judaism brings balance and a centering calm to life.  The Rebbe embraced devotion and religious teaching that will be a guidepost in every endeavor, for each of you, and your future family.