HONOLULU, Hawaii, June 23, 2026 — Despite a record-breaking career in politics, former Governor Linda Lingle never stopped advocating for causes she cares about.
In 2002, Lingle made history when she became Hawaii’s first female governor and the first Jewish governor in the state’s history. Her election was groundbreaking both politically and culturally, representing a milestone for Jewish women in leadership nationwide.
“I felt a deep responsibility to conduct myself in a way that would bring pride to the people of Hawaii,” Lingle said.
Born Linda Cutter in St. Louis, Missouri, Lingle was raised in a Jewish family before eventually making Hawaii her home. Throughout her career, from serving on the Maui County Council to becoming mayor of Maui and later governor, Judaism remained a guiding force in her life and leadership.
“I have always been proud to be Jewish, and I have been proud of the Jewish people who have contributed so much to making the world a better place,” she said.
In a state with a relatively small Jewish population, Lingle has spent decades openly and proudly embracing her heritage. Her strong connection to Jewish peoplehood and Israel eventually led Lingle to become involved with Jewish National Fund-USA. Inspired by the organization’s commitment to strengthening the land and people of Israel, Lingle found that the organization’s mission deeply resonated with her.
Her involvement has continued to grow in recent years. After participating in Jewish National Fund-USA’s Volunteer Mission in 2025, Lingle joined the Pacific Northwest Board of Trustees and has actively supported the organization’s Spring Campaign through donor outreach and engagement. She has also welcomed Jewish National Fund-USA leadership to Hawaii for a series of events and is sharing her personal story and connection to Israel with a broader audience. Lingle is a Herzl Society member with the organization, a mark of her enduring commitment to Israel and to Jewish National Fund-USA's mission.
Jewish National Fund-USA's success in bringing more people to the North and South is crucial for Israel’s security, economy, and quality of life,” she remarked. “I especially admire the way the organization coordinates with local groups and leaders to achieve its vision.”
Now, as Jewish National Fund-USA celebrates its historic 125th anniversary, Lingle will join Zionist leaders, supporters, and changemakers from across the globe at the organization’s Global Conference for Israel this November, one of the largest gatherings of pro-Israel advocates in the world.one of the largest gatherings of pro-Israel advocates in the world.
“I am looking forward to meeting other attendees who share my commitment to do whatever I can to help the land and people of Israel.”
The conference will bring together thousands of passionate supporters united by a shared commitment to Israel’s future, Zionist engagement, and changing lives in Israel’s North and South.
To sign up for Jewish National Fund-USA’s Global Conference for Israel, visit jnf.org/global.
About Jewish National Fund-USA
For 125 years, Jewish National Fund-USA has helped strengthen the land and people of Israel by investing in the communities, infrastructure, and leadership that shape the country’s future. Our work is focused on making Israel’s North and South places where families can build full, vibrant lives with access to medical care, emergency response, water solutions, parks, playgrounds, jobs, and economic opportunity. Working with our donors and partners, we support underpopulated communities, help attract new residents, improve quality of life, and create the conditions for long-term growth. Our work reaches beyond projects on the ground. Through education, travel, and leadership opportunities, we connect Americans of all ages to Israel in meaningful and lasting ways. That vision continues with the World Zionist Village in Be’er Sheva, a global center that will bring people together to live, learn, lead, and strengthen the next generation of Zionist leadership. From urgent relief to long-term transformation, Jewish National Fund-USA is helping build a stronger future for Israel and creating lasting legacies for generations to come. Learn more at jnf.org.
