3 minute read
Honoring legacy: A conversation with Dr. Ellen Frankel
By Cristina Isaacs, Life & Legacy Cabinet Member
For Dr. Ellen Frankel, being part of the Jewish community is more than a cultural connection; it’s family. “The Federation of Greater Naples is a family,” she says, “a family that supports programs, services, and a Jewish education for its community.” That’s why she believes creating a legacy gift — leaving funds to Federation — is one of the most meaningful ways to ensure that the values, traditions, and institutions we cherish today will continue to thrive for generations to come.
Born in New York City, Dr. Frankel’s Jewish journey began early — from attending Hebrew school, celebrating her bat mitzvah and confirmation at North Shore Synagogue, to spending summers at Jewish camps like WeiMet and Eisner Institute. Her connection to Jewish life has remained strong ever since. A proud third-generation member of Hadassah, she continues to travel to Israel regularly — every two to three years — deepening her bond with the land and people.
Professionally, Dr. Frankel has led a remarkable career in medicine, spanning dermatology, pediatrics, and pediatric dermatology — including service within the prison system. She also conducted over two decades of clinical research for the FDA, focusing on pediatric and adult dermatology. Yet, alongside her professional achievements, philanthropy has always been a guiding value.
Inspired by her parents’ example, Dr. Frankel recalls collecting tzedakah instead of candy while trick-or-treating and asking for trees to be planted in Israel instead of bat mitzvah gifts. These early acts of giving shaped a lifelong commitment to Jewish values and community support.
Now living in Naples, Dr. Frankel has found a spiritual home in the local Jewish community, regularly attending Shabbat services and advocating passionately for a stronger Jewish presence — including the need for a Jewish Community Center. “We need to get young people more involved in Judaic organizations,” she emphasizes. “You have to realize that you have an obligation.”
In the wake of rising global challenges, her Jewish identity has become even more visible and meaningful. “I’ve always worn a Star of David. But after Oct. 7, I haven’t taken it off — not even during medical procedures.”
Dr. Frankel is quick to acknowledge her own good fortune and sees it as a responsibility to give back. “If you have the means,” she says, “you need to help others who are less fortunate.” To her, the Federation plays a vital role in that mission. As a proud Legacy Donor, she hopes her gift — and her story — will inspire others to join her in ensuring a vibrant future for Jewish life in Naples.
To learn more about becoming a Legacy Donor, please contact Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Together, we can shape a future rooted in strength, compassion, and enduring community.
