Today we are pleased to spotlight Kenneth Polk, who is the new President of Temple Beth Zion (TBZ). 

Ken is a third generation TBZ member and has been active in TBZ’s lay-leadership for over a decade.  He served on two rabbinic search committees, chairs the annual Summer Celebration golf tournament, and is part of the multi-congregational leadership team that continues to support the Community Religious School.  Ken also played an instrumental role in TBZ’s success in the first year of the Grinspoon Foundation’s Life & Legacy program, where he served as the working group’s chair.

As part of the Sales Learning & Enablement team at Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, North America, Ken is responsible for all leadership development initiatives for both current and future leaders.  His passion is helping new sales people and new sales managers get acclimated in their roles.  Ken’s extensive background in training has translated to leading TBZ with skill, vision, and determination.  Ken kicked-off his tenure with an energizing instructional session for the Board of Trustees, has facilitated the ongoing engagement of TBZ’s Past Presidents, and has built outstanding relationships with other community leaders in Jewish Buffalo. 

Ken’s “we can make it happen” spirit is driving a revitalization of the synagogue.  On April 23rd TBZ will officially reopen the newly expanded Cofeld Judaic Museum, and the official installation for Senior Rabbi Brent Gutmann will take place the weekend of May 19th.  In the fall, TBZ will complete a considerable update project at our fantastic downtown facility, just in time for the High Holy Days.   

In addition to serving TBZ, Ken is active in the Amherst Youth Basketball where he serves as registrar, and as a volunteer for St. Lawrence University, where he served as president of its alumni association from 2008-1010.  Ken lives in Williamsville with his wife, Cara, and three children.