R.I. Jewish Historical Association celebrates Anne Sherman

Anne Sherman and event co-chair Maxine Goldin. /Mel Blake

On Nov. 8, more than 40 members of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Association gathered at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, in Warwick, to honor Anne Sherman. After 24 faithful years as the association’s office manager, Sherman will soon retire.

Board members Maxine Goldin, Marilyn Myrow and Myrna Levine organized the festive brunch. President Ruth Breindel welcomed the well-wishers, and Geraldine Foster, a former president who had helped recruit Sherman under Stanley Abram’s presidency, offered words of praise and thanks.  Foster also paid tribute to Eleanor Horvitz, the association’s longtime archivist and librarian, who became Sherman’s mentor and office companion.  Foster and Sherman also became close colleagues and dear friends. Many of Foster’s ongoing articles in The Jewish Voice reflect this partnership.

George Goodwin, a former president, also spoke about Sherman’s devotion to and love of the Jewish Historical Association, which has extended over 10 presidents, three editors of the Rhode Island Jewish Historical Notes, and a recent, temporary move to another space within the Jewish Alliance’s building. 

Goldin presented Sherman with a framed proclamation and a gift to express the association’s heartfelt appreciation.  Then Sherman reflected on the many sources of her deeply felt pride and satisfaction at a job well done.

Board member Mel Blake documented the occasion with many photos, which will join more than 5,000 prints in the association’s unrivaled archives. 

BETSEY GOODWIN, of Providence, is a member of Temple Beth-El.