Social Scene: A Night of History, Hope & Heritage at the Capital Jewish Museum Gala
By • September 18, 2025 0 605
The Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum hosted its annual gala September 14 at the Maison Francaise at the French Embassy. The event, celebrating the theme “Preserving History and Building Bridges,” honored author and Jewish cultural leader Esther Safran Foer and investor, philanthropist and historian David Rubinstein. CNN’s Dana Bash hosted the event.
Mayor Muriel Bowser and Maryland Governor Wes Moore were spotted at the gala. In the program, Sarah Milgrim and Yaron Lischinsky, who were shot dead outside the museum in May in a targeted, pre-meditated murder motivated by antisemitism and the couple’s Israeli nationality.
“This year’s honorees, Esther Safran Foer and David M. Rubenstein, are deeply aligned with the Capital Jewish Museum’s work to build connections, identify points of commonality, encourage civic engagement, and educate the public about the richness, diversity, and vibrancy of Jewish life,” said Beatrice Gurwitz, Executive Director, in a press release. “It is a privilege to celebrate their service, commitment, and lasting influence on Washington, D.C.”
A gallery of photos from the event can be found below.
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- Maryland Governor Wes Moore. Courtesy of the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum. Photo by Chris Ferenzi Photography.
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- Guests mingle during the cocktail reception. Courtesy of the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum. Photo by Chris Ferenzi Photography.
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- Albert H. Small, Jr, Gala Co-Chair Tina Small, Executive Director Bea Gurwitz, Honoree David M. Rubenstein, Honoree Esther Safran Foer, Board President Chris Wolf, Gala Co-Chair Meg Flax, and Sam Flax. Courtesy of the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum. Photo byChris Ferenzi Photography
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- Co-Chair Meg Flax with Gov. Wes Moore and Co-Chair Tina Small and Ambassador of France Laurent Bili. Courtesy of the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum. Betty Adler Photography.
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- D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser. Courtesy of the Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum. Photo by Chris Ferenzi Photography
