Mark F. Mehlman is to become the next Chairman of Spertus Institute’s Board of Trustees, effective July 1, 2012. His appointment was announced by Donna Barrows, current Spertus Board Chair, and Dr. Hal M. Lewis, Spertus President and CEO. Mr. Mehlman will be the 30th chairman of Spertus since the Institute’s founding in 1924. 

Mr. Mehlman, who joined the Spertus Board in 1992, is a partner in the real estate practice of SNR Denton and has served on the law firm’s Policy and Planning Committee for 18 years. He is a past president and fellow of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers and was recognized by Chambers USA as one of America's leading lawyers for business.

Mr. Mehlman is an honorary life member of the National Commission of the Anti-Defamation League. He and his wife Barbara live in Highland Park. 

Mr. Mehlman has served as a trusted advisor to lay and professional leaders of Spertus throughout his 20 years on the Spertus Board. He has served as Chairman of the Investment Committee, Vice Chairman of the Executive Committee, and a member of the Finance and Audit Committees.

Ms. Barrows, who has chaired the Spertus Board since 2008, will remain an active trustee. About the appointment, she said, “I am confident that under Mark's steady leadership, Spertus will continue to grow and thrive as a vibrant center for Jewish learning and culture.”

Dr. Lewis, who has been Spertus President and CEO since 2009, spoke about getting to know Mr. Mehlman. “Longtime trustees told me how they’d often seen Mark contribute to Spertus deliberations with intelligence, sensitivity, and calm focus, thoughtfully guiding discussion toward consensus. I’ve now seen this in action myself and I’ve come to rely on the skilled ways he brings people together. I look forward to strategically fostering new educational and cultural initiatives to better serve Spertus students and participants under his leadership.”

Mr. Mehlman said, “I am honored to accept this appointment and do so with great enthusiasm. With the professionalism of Dr. Lewis and his skilled staff, as well as the dedication of our Board of Trustees, I believe Spertus is well positioned to advance its ambitious educational and programmatic goals and enhance its position in the Jewish community.”