Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek Shareholder Sarah M. Shekhter has joined the newly formed San Diego Jewish Bar Association’s Board of Directors. The veteran litigator has a long history of dedication to regional and global Jewish community organizations and prioritizes activities that support San Diego legal professionals. As one of the SDJBA’s founding members, Shekhter saw an opportunity to assist both these groups in a meaningful way.
“Recent events and rising antisemitism have shaken the Jewish community, both in San Diego and around the world, prompting Jewish legal professionals, including myself, to seek each other out for comfort and support,” Shekhter said. “We realized that creating a safe space for networking and learning would be valuable, and the Jewish Bar Association was formed through the dedication and hard work of lawyers and judges in the area.”
Now with about 200 attorneys, judicial and law student members, the SDJBA held its inaugural gathering — a networking event and presentation on March 7, which SCMV sponsored. The organization’s second event will be on May 30.
Driven by her deep-rooted commitment to her Jewish heritage and community, Shekhter said her dedication to Jewish organizations stems from her desire to support and uplift Jewish culture, education and social services, ensuring that these organizations thrive and continue to make a positive impact.
Shekhter also recently joined the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee Board of Directors through a leadership training program for young professionals. The organization’s mission is to provide humanitarian assistance around the world to Jewish and non-Jewish communities. She traveled to Poland with the organization in 2022 to assist Ukrainian refugees by bringing medical supplies, clothing and toys collected through a donations drive. She continues to fundraise and has raised about $1 million.
Shekhter is also a member of the Jewish Federation of San Diego Board of Directors and the Kindness Initiative Board of Directors, supporting the nonprofit’s mission of alleviating poverty in the San Diego Jewish community. In the last couple of years, she participated in Yesod, a leadership group for female professionals in the local Jewish community who want to make a positive impact on San Diego.
SCMV is proud of Shekhter for her unwavering dedication to both the legal and Jewish communities, exemplifying the firm’s commitment to leadership and community service. Her proactive involvement in the SDJBA and other charitable organizations highlights her exceptional ability to foster meaningful connections and support critical causes.
About Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek
Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek provides experienced and skilled legal guidance across the full spectrum of business and litigation issues and delivers high-quality client service no matter the size or complexity of the matter. Founded in 1948, Seltzer Caplan McMahon Vitek is one of San Diego’s largest and oldest law firms and represents a wide range of clients, from large international corporations to mid-size companies to individuals and families. Learn more at scmv.com.