Esther Lerer, originally from Los Angeles, CA graduated from Stern College with a major in Business Management. Esther is the proud daughter of Drs. Gitta and Jack Nagel (z”l), from whom she learned firsthand the importance of chesed, communal leadership and a deep love for Shaare Zedek Medical Center. Together with Paul, who grew up in Lawrence, NY, son of Blanche and Murray (z”l) Lerer, they both share their love for the State of Israel through the many organizations and charities that they support.
Dr. Paul Lerer graduated from Yeshiva University and the Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and completed his residency and fellowship training in gastroenterology at Columbia Presbyterian and Mt. Sinai Medical Center. A highly sought after physician
for more than 40 years, Paul has maintained his Gastroenterology practice in Summit and Westfield, NJ. He is a former Chief of GI at Overlook Hospital and the past President of the Gastro Surgery Center in Mountainside, NJ.
Residents of Englewood, NJ for 35 years, Esther and Paul are the proud parents of Jessica and Daniel Yunger, Adam and Nurit Lerer, Bianca and Davis Pineles and Marlon Lerer. They are blessed with the most wonderful grandchildren: Murray, Phoebe, George and Juliette; Dahlia and Jack; Serena, Jack, Nicole and Dylan.
The Lerers are exceptional lay leaders for countless organizations both here and in Israel, including Emunah of America, Sinai Schools, Israel Bonds, FNNJ, AZM, their synagogue Ahavath Torah, the Moriah School, amongst others.
It would be impossible to list all of the tangible and intangible ways that Esther and Paul have been involved with Shaare Zedek over the years. Esther is a member of our National Women’s Division and serves as the Secretary of our National Board. They are amongst our strongest ambassadors for the Hospital and have been a leading force in the success of all of the Shaare Zedek International Missions since 2006. The Lerers have been generous supporters for more than three decades and have passed on their deep commitment and love for the Hospital to their children and grandchildren.
This inspiring couple embodies what it means to be doers, motivators and givers. We are so proud to honor them with the Dr. David Applebaum Healers of Jerusalem Award for their passion, their heart, their leadership and their unwavering friendship.