The YAD Ramat HaNegev Exchange program, a unique collaboration between JEWISHcolorado’s Young Adult Division (YAD) and our partner region, Ramat HaNegev, offers young adults an unforgettable opportunity to experience Israel beyond the surface. This immersive journey delves into the heart of Israel’s dynamic society, diverse communities, and rich culture. Participants will engage firsthand with grassroots changemakers and visionary leaders, gaining deep insight through hands-on experiences, meaningful conversations, and personal narratives.

Beyond exploration, this program fosters lasting connections between participants and their Israeli peers from the Ramat HaNegev young adult cohort—both in Israel and locally, when the Israeli group visits Colorado. Through these exchanges, participants will develop a nuanced understanding of Israel’s challenges and triumphs while strengthening their bonds with the global Jewish community. More than just a trip, this is a transformative experience—one that inspires, connects, and empowers young adults to be part of something greater.

Mindy Goldstein

I am the owner and director of The Applewood School, a private Montessori school in West Denver. I hold an undergraduate degree in Mandarin Chinese from the University of Colorado Boulder and an MBA in finance and accounting from the University of Colorado Denver. After 20 years in corporate America, I transitioned into education to build and lead the Applewood School. I am also qualified in Early Childhood Education, with a particular passion for emerging literacy and mathematics.

My husband, Josh, is a dentist in private practice in Denver. Josh is also a lieutenant colonel in the Colorado Air National Guard at Buckley Air Force Base, with 28 years of experience in dentistry and military deployment. We have two children: Mia, age 20, and Jonah, age 12. When I am not working, I am out vintage collecting (jewelry and art), at hot yoga, or reading a New York Times best-selling non-fiction novel or skiing China Bowl in Vail, Colorado. I am thrilled to be involved with this current trip to Israel and with the selected community.

Rolando Kahn

I have been the Communications Director at JEWISHcolorado since August 2022 where I wear multiple hats including social media management, digital metrics measurement, ad booking, graphic design, and public relations. My previous roles have included marketing and communications at large-scale music festivals, account management at Search Engine Optimization (SEO) companies, and IoT (Internet of Things) startups that connect real-world objects to digital tracking platforms to monitor consumer behavior.

I am excited to participate in the YAD/Ramat HaNegev Exchange program which I hope will help cultivate my international leadership skills, increase my understanding of Israel’s history and current culture in a post-10/7 world, and connect me with other young adults within the Colorado Jewish community and the Israeli community.

Elliott Panipinto

I grew up in Dallas, TX and after high school I went on Young Judea’s Year Course program where I realized I had a calling for the outdoors, which is when I decided Colorado was the place for me. I attended the University of Denver where I studied Business IT and learned how to recreate in the mountains. Professionally, I have worked across multiple industries such as Finance, Aerospace, and Cybersecurity usually in a DevOps type role with a focus on process improvement and automation. When I play, I usually find myself in the mountains where I ski, bike, hike, and really anything that gets me outside. I have been involved with various Jewish organizations throughout my life and enjoy connecting with others and creating community which is why I am looking forward to this program!

Shoshi Shaw

I am a Denver native with a deep interest in community service, global connections, and the arts. I have traveled throughout Eastern Europe, including Moldova, experiences that strengthened my curiosity about culture and public life. I’ve previously worked as an EMT, reflecting my commitment to helping others in meaningful, hands-on ways. During my gap year, I participated with Marva and volunteered with Magen David Adom, further shaping my dedication to service and community. A multimedia artist, I’m currently pursuing a creative path in character design for video games and storytelling. I’m excited to continue learning, connecting, and contributing through this exchange experience in Israel.

Adam Vicksman

I am a Denver native and love being outdoors, especially skiing in the winter and golfing when the weather warms up. I work for a property management company, helping with day-to-day operations and keeping things organized. I am also a big fan of Colorado sports and enjoy cheering on the home teams. I have been to Israel four times, and each trip has made me appreciate the culture even more, especially the food. When I am not working, I like checking out new places, whether that is through travel or finding good spots around Denver.

Jordan Watkins

I’m a Colorado native and have lived in Colorado my whole life besides a few years in the beautiful island state of Hawaii for University. I currently work as a Cybersecurity Manager in the defense technology industry, and love what I do. I converted to Judaism several years ago, and my connection to Israel has been a meaningful part of that journey. I’ve visited twice, first as a fellow with Israel’s Ministry of Strategic Affairs, which gave me a deeper understanding of Israel’s security landscape and how to combat antisemitism on campus. Then, a second time when I returned to staff an amazing Taglit Birthright Israel trip. Both experiences in Israel brought me closer to my Judaism in different but equally significant ways. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, traveling with friends, and following soccer (or football as I like to say.)