Norman Pappas
Interviewed by Michael Berke
April 9, 2012
Max M. Fisher Federation Building, Bloomfield Hills, Michigan
Norman Pappas
Video 00:56:00
Norman Pappas
Audio 00:56:00
Abstract
In this interview, Norman Pappas speaks about his parents and their relationship and careers that led them to the Detroit area. He talks about how as a child, he grew up as one of the only Jewish children in his school, but his family stressed how important it was that he is Jewish.
Pappas says that it was a trip to Israel with his wife, Susie that got them both interested in becoming involved with the Jewish Community. He mentions how they met and their marriage. He talks about their children and the various things they are involved with together in the community. He mentions a Miracle Mission he went on, as well as being involved in the Jewish Olympics with his son.
Next, Pappas talks about his involvement with Friends of the IDF, being chairman of Bar Ilan, and being on the Jewish Community Center board.
Pappas then speaks about the changes in the community since he has been involved, as well as challenges for Israel that he has noticed. He talks at length about his thoughts on the future of Jewish Leadership.
Pappas is asked about his mentors in the community and mentions the names of prominent people who have guided him. He talks about the Arab community and how they relate to the Jewish community, and finally speaks about establishing the Innovative Idea Award.
History of Narrator
Norman Pappas was born in Midland, Michigan. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan and his M.B.A. from Michigan State University. Pappas is president and founder of Pappas Financial.
He served as President of the United Jewish Foundation from 2006-2009 and is a past Allied Jewish Campaign Chairman. Pappas has also been past chairman of Detroit’s Friends of Bar-Ilan, the American committee for Weizmann Institute, as well as being the first chairman of Detroit’s Friends of Israeli Defense Forces.
In 2012, Mr. Pappas served on the Advisory Council for Michigan Israel Business Bridge and in 2013, became an Honorary Board Member of the Detroit Jewish News Foundation.
Transcript
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Important Names
Credit as: Leonard N. Simons Jewish Community Archives. Norman Pappas Oral History Interview, April 9, 2012.