Pardes 2026 Gala

Connecting the Past with the Present

Honoring Sheila Schwartz in recognition for her lifelong support of Jewish Education

Saturday, March 7, 2026 at 7:30 pm 

Agenda

7:30 pm Connection Hour & Silent Auction

8:30 pm Dinner & Formal Program

9:30 pm Dancing & Mingling

Attire

Formal Cocktail Attire

Sheila Schwartz is a pioneering force in Jewish education in Phoenix. Sheila Monashkin was born and raised in Williamsburg, New York, she moved to Phoenix in 1959, where she married her husband, Jess Schwartz. Together, they raised three children, Frank, Abby, and Lesley. All of whom attended the JCC Day School and the Phoenix Hebrew Academy. It was through her children's education that Sheila's lifelong commitment to Jewish community schools first took root.

Later, Sheila made the lead gift to establish the Jess Schwartz Jewish Community High School in honor of her late husband, opening even more doors for Jewish students in the Phoenix community. Today, that campus is home to Pardes Jewish Day School, continuing the legacy of Jewish education that Sheila helped build.

Sheila's leadership and generosity extend far beyond a single institution. She has been a steadfast supporter of numerous Jewish and non-Jewish organizations in the Phoenix metropolitan area and beyond, including the Technion and the Weizmann Institute in Israel, PEJE, AIPAC, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, and the Jewish National Fund, among many others.

In addition to her philanthropic leadership, Sheila played a unique role in building Jewish community in Phoenix by organizing Jewish singles' dances, which led to many meaningful relationships and marriages.

Through her vision, courage, and dedication, Sheila has strengthened Jewish life in Phoenix for decades, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and empower generations to come.