December 19, 2011 – New York – AJC is deeply saddened by the passing of Maynard Wishner, a past leader of the global advocacy organization, and a longtime Jewish activist in Chicago and far beyond. He served as AJC National President from 1980 to 1983. He was 88 years old.

“Maynard Wishner’s passionate, lifelong activism should always serve as a model of leadership for the American Jewish community,” said AJC Executive Director David Harris. “We will forever miss Maynard’s love of Jewish life, and, yes, incredible sense of humor, derived from an early career in the Yiddish Theater in Chicago. If ever there was a true mensch, it was he!”

Wishner, a Chicago attorney, served as executive director of the Mayor’s Commission on Human Relations, and Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago, before entering private practice.

Throughout his legal career and Jewish communal volunteer involvement, Wishner was a vocal proponent of advancing cooperative intergroup relations to strengthen American society and build enduring friendships for the Jewish community.

In his native Chicago, Wishner led AJC efforts to nurture enduring links with, among others, the Polish, Greek and Catholic communities. He also traveled to many countries on behalf of AJC to advance the well-being of Jewish communities and to strengthen respect for democratic values.

“Maynard demonstrated through his own remarkable commitment that American Jewish leaders can do so much to advocate for both a strong community in the U.S. and a secure Israel,” said Harris. “Maynard’s tireless devotion and commitment will forever serve as an example of Jewish leadership.”

Wishner continued in his role as AJC Honorary President, and on the Board of Governors, after his term ended nearly three decades ago. An ardent supporter of Israel, Wishner also was an outspoken advocate for securing the freedom of Jews in the Soviet Union, another example of his commitment to Jewish peoplehood.

Following his work at the Chicago Mayor’s office, Wishner entered private practice. He left the law firm of Cole, Wishner, Epstein & Manilow in 1963, to join Walter E. Heller & Company, where he served as president and CEO, as well as vice chairman of the financial firm’s parent company, Heller International Corporation.

AJC extends deepest condolences to his wife Elaine, his three daughters, Ellen, Jane and Mimi, his sister, three sons-in-law, eight grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren.