Sad Update
Remembering Craig Smith & holding Leslie and family in our hearts
It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Craig Smith, beloved husband of Leslie Kirby, CEO of the Jewish Community Alliance. Craig, a psychology professor at Vanderbilt University, was a renowned scholar whose groundbreaking work on cognition, emotion, and resilience made a lasting impact on his field. A dedicated educator, Craig found great joy in teaching and mentoring his students. He had been eagerly anticipating a move to Maine at the end of the school year and was already engaging with area colleges and universities to plan his transition. During this incredibly difficult time, Leslie will be stepping away from her duties at the JCA to be with her family. The executive committee and staff are working closely together to ensure that the needs of our community continue to be met in her absence. If you would like to share a message with Leslie and her family, we invite you to add them to this special page set up in Craig’s memory.
As we approach the sacred time of Shabbat and Chanukah, and while processing this loss to our community, we are reminded of the importance of pausing amidst life’s hustle and bustle. Shabbat is more than a day of rest—it is a time to reconnect with ourselves, our loved ones, and the Divine. This week’s Torah portion, Miketz (Genesis 41:1–44:17), continues Joseph’s journey and resonates deeply with themes of resilience, wisdom, and reconciliation. Tonight, as we light the third candle of Chanukah, we celebrate the miraculous triumph of light over darkness and the enduring strength of our traditions. Just as Joseph’s wisdom sustained Egypt in a time of need, the light of the menorah inspires us to bring hope, warmth, and kindness to those around us—especially in times of hardship.
Whether you are gathering with loved ones, reflecting quietly, or joining in community, may this Shabbat and Chanukah bring reflection and inspiration to your heart. Let us keep Leslie and her family in our thoughts, and surround them with our light and support. Zikhrono livrakha, may Craig’s memory be for a blessing.
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