Updated: 13 августа, 2026 1:47 пп
The international Jewish student fraternity Alpha Epsilon Pi (AEPi) held its 113th international convention in Phoenix, Arizona, USA.
More than 500 students and alumni attended the four-day event. Within the framework of the convention, events were held aimed at developing leadership skills, discussing issues facing the Jewish community, reviewing matters related to the organization’s activities, and strengthening bonds within the fraternity.
During the convention, the formal inauguration ceremony of AEPi’s 78th Supreme Master, i.e., international president, was held. Management consultant Adam Cohen, residing in Savannah, Georgia, was elected to this position. A. Cohen previously served in various volunteer roles within the organization and worked as an educational leadership consultant.
At the gala banquet held on Saturday, Gary Shapiro, a real estate professional from Scottsdale and past Supreme Master of AEPi, was awarded the fraternity’s highest honor, the Order of the Lion, for his many years of service to the organization.
During the Shabbat dinner held on Friday, Daniel Mariaschin, former head of B’nai B’rith International, was presented with the Arthur and Simi Teich Award for his outstanding achievements as an alumnus. Mariaschin recently completed his 27-year tenure as Chief Executive Officer of B’nai B’rith International. During this time, he led the organization’s international advocacy and diplomatic efforts.
The keynote speaker of the convention was Jared Firestone. Representing Israel in skeleton at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, Firestone carried the Israeli flag at the opening ceremony of the games. A graduate of Tulane University, Firestone became a member of the AEPi fraternity on the day he spoke.
The event was also attended by comedian, producer, and activist Zach Sage Fox, as well as Spin Master co-founder, co-creator of the children’s animated series PAW Patrol, Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist Ronnen Harari.
Special attention was also paid to students’ mental and emotional health issues at the convention. Ben Pargman, founder of the Manny’s Band Foundation, addressed the participants. In his speech, Pargman emphasized the importance of paying greater attention to students’ psychological well-being.
The convention program discussed topics such as expressing Jewish identity on university campuses, support for Israel, the principle of «tikkun olam» — repairing the world and improving the operations of local chapters.
AEPi Chief Executive Officer Rob Derdiger stated that the speeches delivered and awards presented at the convention demonstrated the organization’s commitment to developing Jewish leaders, strengthening intergenerational connections, and preparing students for responsible leadership in their communities.
