JWV Makes History with Installation of Selina Kanowitz as First Female National Commander
The Jewish War Veterans of the USA (JWV), the nation’s oldest active veterans service organization, proudly announces the installation of Selina Kanowitz as its new National Commander, marking a historic milestone as the first woman ever elected and installed to lead the organization in its distinguished history.
Kanowitz assumed leadership during JWV’s National Convention, where delegates from across the country gathered to commemorate the organization’s legacy of service, patriotism, advocacy, and commitment to veterans and their families.
“It is the honor of a lifetime to serve as National Commander of the Jewish War Veterans of the USA,” said Kanowitz. “As we build on more than a century of dedication to veterans, military families, and our communities, I am committed to strengthening our organization, expanding our impact, and ensuring that every veteran receives the support, recognition, and opportunities they have earned through service.”
Kanowitz brings to the role more than three decades of involvement with JWV and a lifetime commitment to military and veteran service. She joined JWV Post 215 in Philadelphia in 1991 and has held numerous leadership positions at the post and department levels. Her military career included more than 21 years in the Air Force Reserve, where she served with the 913th Tactical Clinic in radiology and rose to the rank of E-7 as the noncommissioned officer in charge of her section. She was activated during Operation Desert Storm and served stateside at McGuire Air Force Base in New Jersey before retiring from military service in 1998.
Today, Kanowitz continues that commitment through hands-on leadership, veteran outreach, mentorship, and advocacy. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes personal connection—meeting veterans where they are, strengthening relationships among members, expanding JWV’s visibility in communities, and encouraging more veterans, particularly women veterans, to become engaged in the organization. She has also made combating antisemitism and educating others about the opportunities and experiences of military service central to her work.
Her commitment to service is deeply rooted in her family’s military history. Kanowitz’s father served as an Army medic during World War II and received the Purple Heart, while one of her uncles served as a paratrooper during the World War II with the 82nd Airborne and another uncle served in the Korean War. Kanowitz has said that her own military experience gave her opportunities she might not otherwise have had and has expressed a desire to help educate others so they can benefit from similar opportunities.
Founded in 1896, JWV has long championed the interests of veterans while promoting Americanism, combating antisemitism, preserving the history of Jewish military service, and supporting active-duty service members and their families. Kanowitz’s installation represents both a historic achievement and a reflection of the evolving leadership of America’s veteran community.
“Selina’s election is a proud moment for JWV and for veterans nationwide,” said Scott Stevens, 2025-26 National Commander. “Her commitment to service, leadership experience, and vision for the future make her exceptionally qualified to guide our organization through its next chapter. Her installation as our first female National Commander is a significant milestone that honors both our traditions and our progress.”
Throughout her years with JWV, Kanowitz has been recognized for her dedication to veteran advocacy, organizational leadership, and mentorship of fellow veterans. Her experience at the post, department, and national levels gives her a firsthand understanding of the importance of building strong local communities while advancing JWV’s national mission.
As National Commander, Kanowitz will focus on:
- Advocating for veterans’ healthcare, benefits, and services.
- Supporting active-duty military personnel, National Guard members, reservists, and military families.
- Expanding membership and engagement opportunities for veterans of all generations, with emphasis on reaching more women veterans.
- Strengthening connections among JWV members through personal outreach and engagement.
- Increasing JWV’s visibility and community presence nationwide.
- Promoting civic engagement, patriotism, and community service.
- Strengthening efforts to combat antisemitism and preserve the legacy of Jewish military service.
- Educating veterans and future generations about the opportunities, responsibilities, and lasting impact of military service.
Kanowitz’s historic installation underscores JWV’s continued commitment to leadership, inclusion, service, and ensuring that the contributions of Jewish American veterans remain visible and valued for generations to come.
###
About Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America
Founded in 1896, the Jewish War Veterans (JWV) of the USA is the premier voice for Jewish uniformed service members and veterans and is the oldest continuously active veterans service organization in the United States. The JWV affirms that Jewish men and women serve honorably and heroically in the military forces of the United States of America during peacetime and war. The JWV defends the rights and benefits of all service members and veterans, combats antisemitism, and supports the State of Israel.
For more information, visit https://www.jwv.org.
