Who We Are
David and Etta Jonas were devoted partners in life, whose legacy is defined by a profound commitment to education, community, and advancing opportunity. David was a successful entrepreneur and business leader, known for his sharp insight, integrity, and tireless work ethic. His professional accomplishments laid the groundwork for the couple’s philanthropic vision, allowing them to support causes that reflected their deeply held values.
Etta worked as a teacher in the most underserved schools within the Chicago Public School (CPS) system for decades. Upon retiring from CPS, she became devoted to supporting Jewish education within her community and across the country.
What David and Etta shared most deeply was an unwavering love for the State of Israel. Their commitment to Israel—its people, its future, and its connection to Jewish life worldwide—was at the heart of their marriage and their work. In addition to being staunch supporters of Israel, they were active in Chicago’s Jewish community, and deeply involved in synagogues, schools, and charitable organizations. They regularly engaged with and contributed to initiatives that fostered strong ties between the United States and Israel, seeing this connection as vital to Jewish continuity and global stability.
Advocates for Jewish education, they enrolled their children in Solomon Schechter Day School, where they established a major scholarship fund to ensure future generations could access a meaningful Jewish foundation.
David’s leadership extended beyond his business ventures. He was instrumental in promoting trade between Israel and the United States by founding the AIBEX initiative in partnership with the America Israel Chamber of Commerce, where he also served on the board and was honored for his significant contributions. His commitment to Israel’s security and democratic values was further exemplified through his active support for Friends of the European Leadership Network (ELNET) and the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), a nonpartisan policy institute focused on foreign policy and national security.
He also served as a Director and Board Member of Rosalind Franklin University’s Chicago Medical School, contributing his healthcare leadership and strategic insight to one of the region’s most respected medical institutions.
David was deeply committed to education not just as a source of knowledge, but as a catalyst for economic empowerment. He believed in equipping individuals with the tools to become active members of the business community and entrepreneurial in spirit—an ideal he championed through both personal mentorship and philanthropic initiatives.
Through their family foundation and lasting dedication to Jewish life, the people of Israel, and medical research, David and Etta Jonas continue to touch lives, honoring a legacy rooted in faith, generosity, leadership, and an enduring love for Israel, community, and the Jewish future.
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