A life of Jewish commitment

From Detroit to Naples

By Phyllis Strome, 2026 Annual Community Campaign Co-chair

When I arrived in Naples in 2002, I brought decades of Jewish life, leadership and community involvement with me.

I was born in a Detroit, Michigan neighborhood where being Jewish was part of everyday life. My classmates, neighbors and family all shared in the rhythm of Jewish holidays and traditions. It was all I knew.

That changed when I was 10, and my mother moved us to Alpena, a small northern Michigan town with only 22 Jewish families. In Alpena, Temple Beth El quickly became the heart of our lives. I not only attended services but also taught Sunday School. It was there that I was confirmed and where I deepened my Jewish identity in a more intimate, community-focused way.

At the age of 18, I left Alpena to attend college. There, I met Steve — my future husband — and together, we returned to Detroit, where we raised our two children and continued our active involvement in Jewish life.

Throughout the years, I embraced many opportunities to lead and contribute to the Jewish community. I was president of our local ORT Chapter, Board member and later president of Temple Kol Ami, Lion of Judah member, Kadima Board member, Jewish Family Services Board member and Jewish Historical Society of Michigan Board member

In addition to my Jewish commitments, I also served the broader Detroit community as a Board member of both the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Detroit Historical Society. These roles reflected my passion for culture, history and the enrichment of community life.

Professionally, I dedicated my career to education and corporate training, culminating in my role as executive director of a traditional Conservative synagogue — work that allowed me to combine my professional skills with my passion for Jewish communal service.

In 2002, Steve and I chose Naples as our second home. Once again, I found myself in a smaller Jewish community, reminiscent of Alpena. It wasn’t long before I became a life member of Hadassah, joined the Board of the Women’s Cultural Alliance, and most recently, took on the role of co-chair for Jewish Federation of Greater Naples’ 2026 Annual Community Campaign.

I look forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead. Every chapter of my life has strengthened my connection to Jewish values, leadership and service, and I’m honored to bring that commitment to the vibrant Jewish community here in Naples.