Mentor Spotlight: Amy Hummell

Take a minute to get to know WLI mentor, Amy Hummell by reading the Q&A below!

Please share a few of your favorite things you have learned in the class sessions?

It is a toss-up if I enjoyed really getting to know the other mentors and mentees in my cohorts or the way Rabbi Elana Kanter was able to teach us about business through the lessons of Jewish scholars. The entire experience was wonderful especially how everyone involved took the class sessions seriously and were fully present each month.

How have you stayed involved with WLI since your year ended?

After being a mentor for Cohorts 3 & 4, I have continued participating in the WLI Alumnae programming starting with the overnight retreats and continuing with the online offerings.

What is your occupation and have you been able to apply what you learned in WLI to your job?

I am the executive director of Gesher Disability Resources, a Jewish disability agency founded in 1985 as the Council For Jews With Special Needs. The lessons learned from WLI are applied often, but more than that networking with the amazing Jewish professionals I met have benefitted the programming that is offered to our members. WLI volunteers are amazing, and WLI leaders are creative and resourceful.

Please tell us more about yourself, your family and/or your involvement in the Jewish community.

In 2006, my family moved to Phoenix to be near my dad and stepmom. At the time, my daughter was 5 years old, about to start kindergarten, and my son was 1 year old. We are three generations of members to Temple Kol Ami where I currently serve on the board and have for the past 5 years. My daughter went the route of NFTY with her friends and my son has chosen BBYO. We all enjoy being together for the Jewish holidays.

In your spare time what are some hobbies or activities you like to do? (and/or share some fun facts about yourself)

While we have always enjoyed watching tv as a family, the pandemic really brought us together in front of the screen. If it is crime drama, chick flick or Marvel, we have probably seen it. I also love hiking with friends, since it could be dangerous to go alone as I might get lost, and never tire of the desert scenery. We also enjoy a good dinner party with friends.