NJDC Elects Ambassador Arthur Schechter National Chairman

Washington, DC: The National Jewish Democratic Council (NJDC) has unanimously elected Ambassador Arthur L. Schechter to the position of National Chairman. Schechter's term of office begins on January 1, 2004 when he will succeed William B. Dockser, who has served as National Chairman of NJDC since 2000.

"With the presidential election less than twelve months away, NJDC has a critical role to play in mobilizing Jewish Democrats to derail the Bush agenda," said Ambassador Schechter. "I am honored and privileged to have the opportunity to lead NJDC during what could very well be a battle for the future of America and the values which have made this country great," said Schechter.

William Dockser, chairman of NJDC, noted, "I am pleased to be passing the mantle of leadership to a national leader of the caliber of Ambassador Arthur Schechter. Arthur is a role model for all Americans and has held leadership positions in Jewish and civic organizations at the local, state and national levels." Ira N. Forman, NJDC's Executive Director, added, "Ambassador Schechter brings tremendous leadership skills and experience to NJDC, and we are looking forward to working with him in strengthening and expanding the unique role of NJDC as the national voice of Jewish Democrats."

Ambassador Arthur Schechter has served as Ambassador of the United States to the Commonwealth of the Bahamas and has played a leadership role with a long list of Jewish organizations, including American Jewish Committee, Israel Bonds, ADL, AIPAC, UJA, Project Interchange, and the U.S. Holocaust Museum. He has served as President of the Jewish Federation of Houston. His political involvement includes leadership positions with the DNC, 21st Century Democrats, and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. He has been the recipient of numerous national and local awards and honors from Jewish and general community organizations.