In a recognition of remarkable contributions to Zionism, Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, recently unveiled its list of the “18 American Zionist Women You Should Know” for 2025. This initiative addresses the growing anti-Israel sentiment worldwide, spotlighting influential women advocating for Jewish interests. Among the honorees is Suzanne Patt Benvenisti, a Houstian by birth and the current Executive Director of Hadassah’s offices in Israel.
Benvenisti’s role involves bridging connections between Hadassah chapters in the U.S. and supporters globally, linking them with the organization’s hospitals and youth villages situated in Israel. Expressing her gratitude for being honored, she remarked: “It’s a great honor to be on this year’s list alongside so many remarkable women. Altogether, I’ve spent 17 years of my life living in Israel, and my goal – wherever I am – is always to change the world around me for the better.”
Her impactful work was particularly highlighted in the wake of the tragic events on October 7, 2023. Following these events, Benvenisti initiated Hadassah’s Yellow Nail campaign, aimed at raising awareness of the brutal violence faced by Israeli women and girls. This campaign supplements Hadassah’s End The Silence initiative, focusing on the use of sexual violence as a weapon in conflict. Additionally, in 2025, she collaborated with the Hapoel Lev Jerusalem women’s basketball club, fostering empowerment among Israel’s future female leaders.
Benvenisti made aliyah with her family in 2011, and actively contributes to the Keren Kayemet L’Israel board. Her statements underscore her commitment to systemic improvement: “I’m proud to have had the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others during my time in Israel, first by identifying and raising awareness about some of the major social policy issues that need change, and now by helping to support and develop Israel’s healthcare and education systems through my work at Hadassah.”
Throughout the tumultuous year and a half following the onset of conflict, she has concentrated on aiding those physically and emotionally impacted by the events of October 7 and subsequent warfare. Beneficiaries of Hadassah’s various initiatives include individuals receiving care at the newly established Gandel Rehabilitation Center, extended mental health programs, and young girls in Jerusalem engaging in sports through Hapoel Lev Jerusalem Basketball Club, promoting both mental and physical health.
Each year, Hadassah’s selection of honorees reflects the evolving landscape of Zionism and diverse identities within it. This year’s list features an array of inspiring figures, such as a Muslim women’s rights activist from Pakistan, an Emmy Award-winning actress advocating for Jewish causes, a non-Jewish Instagram culinary influencer denouncing antisemitism, an Orthodox Jewish activist elevating her community’s visibility, and an Ethiopian-born ex-IDF paratrooper now serving in public office.
From activists and educators to entertainers and business leaders, these 18 women represent vital advocacy for Israel and Jewish causes both in the U.S. and internationally. Carol Ann Schwartz, Hadassah’s national president, expressed the organization’s enduring mission: “Hadassah has fostered and promoted Zionist ideals for more than 100 years, and the vision of our founder, Henrietta Szold, lives on through us. We take to heart our responsibility to empower those who are standing up for Israel.”
To discover the full list of these influential women and their contributions, visit Hadassah’s official page.
