Rose Frances Glasser was a living legacy. Her work within the Hampton Roads and global Jewish communities exemplified her commitment to its continuity. From being a founding board member of the Jewish Community Center’s Newport Avenue campus in Norfolk, to helping establish the Beth Sholom Home of Eastern Virginia, to volunteering in Israel for three consecutive winters after her beloved husband Bernard passed away, she worked tirelessly to promote Jewish community and values.
Inspired by her example, Lori and Michael Glasser’s family have embraced their responsibility to actively engage with Jewish life and culture. The Glassers, along with their sons Bern, Jake, and Ross, and Jake’s wife Jessica (Jess), are deeply invested in nurturing legacy—rich in giving, learning, and community involvement. Lori has been instrumental in this journey, and her devotion to her sons’ education and Jewish community involvement reflects her commitment. From the boys’ formative years at Hebrew Academy of Tidewater (now Strelitz International Academy), to various community service projects, and immersion in history and heritage, Lori has talked about and taught Jewish values as well as practiced them, continuing the philanthropic legacy initiated by Rose Frances, her mother-in-law.
The Glasser family continues to seek innovative ways to make an impact and launch initiatives to connect younger generations with Jewish culture. For instance, in partnership with United Jewish Federation of Tidewater, the Richard S. Glasser Family Foundation supports Pop-up Shabbat programs for young adults, as well as Hillel organizations at various universities. The Glassers have also been proactive by engaging with Tidewater Jewish Foundation to establish lasting resources that support programs and organizations that will engage youth, make traditions accessible, and ensure the perpetuation of Jewish identity.
The dedication of the Glasser family to their community, passed down through generations, has instilled in Bern, Jake, Ross, and Jess a profound understanding of their roles in sustaining Jewish life. Through numerous trips to Israel, some with their parents and some on their own, and through local community engagement, they recognize the importance of supporting Jewish life, a commitment deepened by recent attacks on Israel.
Today, Lori and Michael are confident that their approach to active engagement and leading by example will enrich their children’s lives and inspire future generations to uphold the legacy of supporting Jewish life. Although not yet grandparents, they are reassured by knowing that the seeds they have planted will flourish in their children’s children, contributing to a thriving and sustainable Jewish future.
The Glassers are one of many Jewish families committed to preserving and enhancing Jewish traditions and protecting Israel. Lori and Michael, Bern, Jake, Jess, and Ross aim to inspire a collective movement towards a thriving and sustainable Jewish future with organizations such as Tidewater Jewish Foundation.