AJA Grants

The AJA grants are awarded to deserving Jewish athletes who demonstrate a commitment to achieving excellence in their chosen disciplines while exemplifying the values of ambassadorship through sport.

  • Applications Due

    4/17/2023, 11:59p PST

  • Review Period

    4/17/2023  -  5/15/2023

  • Grants Awarded

    Shortly after 5/31/2023

Meet Our Selection Committee

  • Donna Orender

    Donna Orender—accomplished professional baskeball player and sports executive. Formerly president of the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), and a Senior Executive for the PGA TOUR. Currently, Orender is the founder and CEO of Orender Unlimited, a Jacksonville, FL based advisory and consultancy firm. She also serves on the Boards of several public and private companies, including the World Surf League and Goal Acquisition Corporation, while traveling the world as a motivational speaker and advocating for the empowerment of women and young girls through her non-profit organization Generation W.

  • Mark Wilf

    Mark Wilf is an American businessman who is the president and co-owner of the Minnesota Vikings, and chairman and co-owner of Orlando City SC. He served as National Campaign Chairman for the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA) and was elected Chair of their Board of Trustees in 2018. In 2022, he was elected Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Jewish Agency.

  • Joel Mael

    Joel Mael was a co-founder of the investment and merchant banking firm of Tallwood Associates in 1990. He serves on the boards of some local and national Jewish charities.

    Mr. Mael had been the Vice Chairman of the Miami Marlins baseball team from 2002 until 2017 when the team was sold. He was involved in all aspects of the business and baseball operations and helps formulate all strategic and financial planning. Prior to joining the Marlins, Mael worked with the Montreal Expos organization, as a financial advisor, for three years.