The 2025 Staenberg Speaker Series began on Jan. 15 with an inspiring evening featuring Sol Werdiger, CEO of OuterStuff and a leading figure in both the business world and American Jewish life. The event, hosted by Charlie and Naomi Ruth Deutsch and Zack and Rachel Deutsch, took place at Avenir, the Deutsch family’s newly opened luxury apartments in University City.
The evening began with a VIP meet-and-greet for IgniteYP’s patrons and supporters. During this intimate gathering, Werdiger shared insights about his leadership role at Agudath Israel of America and its impact on American Jewry. Attendees appreciated the chance to hear firsthand about the organization’s work and Werdiger’s experiences balancing faith, family, and professional success.
For Alan Morgensztern, 23, one of the attendees, Werdiger’s keynote was particularly impactful.
“The most impactful story that I heard during Sol’s keynote was when he spoke about his experience attending a weekend work brunch,” Morgensztern shared. Werdiger recounted how, to honor Shabbat, he walked a long distance to the brunch rather than accepting car rides from colleagues. Once there, he explained the rules of Shabbat, and his colleagues not only respected his commitment but made future accommodations to make it easier for him to attend such events.
“As a young Jewish professional, this story is very inspiring to me,” Morgensztern added. “It certainly has me reflecting more about how important it is as a Jew to keep mitzvahs, even in difficult situations.”
Carly Spielberg, another attendee, found inspiration in Werdiger’s broader message. “Sol highlighted a powerful narrative during his talk: that one can thrive in business while fully embracing their Jewish identity,” Spielberg said. “What struck me most was his emphasis on the idea that our faith can be a source of strength rather than a hindrance. This perspective encourages me to view my own beliefs as assets in my career.”
Spielberg, 27, works as a research scientist at Bayer and is actively involved in the Jewish community. “I participate in Partners in Torah at Nusach Hari and am a Camp Sabra alum,” she shared. Werdiger’s example inspired her to integrate her values into her professional interactions more deliberately. “Hearing how his business presented opportunities to create a greater impact on the Jewish community, like wearing a kippa or sharing a kosher meal, reminds me that we don’t have to compromise our faith in the workplace,” she said. “Instead, we can be proudly Jewish and encourage others to do the same.”
During his keynote address, Werdiger also recounted stories from his decades in the sports apparel industry, offering advice on maintaining Jewish values in demanding professional spaces. His involvement with Agudath Israel of America resonated deeply with attendees like Morgensztern. “I respect that he has taken it upon himself to give back to the Jewish community and that he has also taken time out of his busy schedule to speak to young professionals like myself,” Morgensztern said. “Sol’s way of balancing religion and business is a way of life that the Jewish youth of today should strive for.”
The talk concluded with an engaging Q&A session, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and connect with Werdiger’s message on a personal level.
The Staenberg Speaker Series continues next month, building on this kickoff event’s success. IgniteYP, a networking and educational hub for Jewish young professionals ages 22 to 35, designed the series to inspire, connect, and empower participants through meaningful interactions with prominent Jewish leaders.
