Home / See, Read & Share

About Our Speaker: Jeannie Opdyke Smith

Jeannie Opdyke Smith is the daughter of the late Irene Opdyke, a brave and inspiring figure who received international recognition for her life-saving actions during the Holocaust when working for a high ranking German official.

The Israeli Holocaust Commission named Irene one of the Righteous Among the Nations, a title given to those who risked their lives by aiding and saving Jews during the Holocaust. She was presented with the Israel Medal of Honor, Israel’s highest tribute, in a ceremony at Jerusalem’s Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial. The Vatican has given Irene a special commendation, and her story is part of a permanent exhibit in the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.

Irene’s autobiography, "In My Hands: Memories of a Holocaust Rescuer," relays the detailed account of her life during World War II. The book was adapted into the nationally acclaimed Broadway play, "Irena’s Vow," starring Tovah Feldshuh.

Jeannie has spoken at Federations around the country telling her mother’s inspiring story of how one woman can truly make an impact on the world.

Jewish Community Study Presentations April 7-8

Jewish Community Study Presentations April 7-8

Join local synagogues, agencies, friends and neighbors April 7 and 8 for one of four regional gatherings on the state of Jewish Miami as the Greater Miami Jewish Federation presents the findings of Jewish Miami: A 2024 Community Study.

Read More

Yerucham Duo Visits Miami

Yerucham Duo Visits Miami

This week, Jewish Miami welcomed Ariel Pollack Star and Betty Ben Shimon, two entrepreneurs and educators from our partnership city of Yerucham, Israel, who led workshops and lectures throughout Miami for members of our Young Leadership Division, South Dade branch, Diller Teen Fellows.

Read More

Helping Evacuees Finally Return Home

Helping Evacuees Finally Return Home

More than a year and a half after October 7, tens of thousands of evacuees are starting to return to their communities in northern Israel with the help of Federation funding.

Read More

Sunday, April 27: Yom HaShoah Observance

Sunday, April 27: Yom HaShoah Observance

Join your Jewish community at Temple Emanu-El, 1701 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach to commemorate Yom HaShoah — Holocaust Remembrance Day — and revisit the lessons of history through the testimony of Survivors.

Read More

Stay in Touch

Receive news about Greater Miami Jewish Federation events and more.