Jeffrey W. Berkman Honored at the 2024 Girl Scouts of Suffolk County Golf Classic

On September 24th, 2024, the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County (GSSC) held their annual Golf Classic at the beautiful Nissequogue Golf Club. More than 100 golfers came out to play across 18 holes at one of Long Island’s most impressive courses. The day brought together business leaders, community members, and supporters, all working toward a shared goal: supporting the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County.

The proceeds from the Golf Classic will go directly towards scholarships and financial aid for girls in need, the expansion of school-based community programming, and promoting STEM, one of the four pillars of Girl Scouts.

This year’s honoree, FRB Founding Partner Jeffrey W. Berkman, Esq., LL.M., was recognized for his dedication to empowering young girls through his support of the Girl Scouts.

Jeff’s personal connection to the organization runs deep. He spoke fondly of his daughter’s experience as a Girl Scout, sharing how the organization provided her with a safe and supportive environment to build character and learn critical life skills. During his speech, Jeff highlighted the importance of the Girl Scouts' four pillars—life skills, STEM, entrepreneurship, and the outdoors—but it was entrepreneurship that he connected with the most.

“As a corporate lawyer for over 30 years, entrepreneurship finds its way into my life every single day,” Jeff said. His practice focuses on corporate and securities law matters, advising and representing entrepreneurs, investors, family offices, and companies across a variety of industries. He praised the Girl Scouts for encouraging young women to embrace entrepreneurship, noting how essential it is for their success in the modern world. "To see the Girl Scouts support and promote young girls and women in entrepreneurship is incredible," he added.

Jeff’s career spans decades, during which he has worked with a range of clients in industries like technology, healthcare, telecommunications, and venture capital. He also serves as an Adjunct Professor at Hofstra Law School, further emphasizing his belief in the power of education. His commitment to the Girl Scouts aligns with his broader professional mission of supporting growth, leadership, and opportunity in every venture he touches.

Tammy Severino, CEO of Girl Scouts of Suffolk County, followed Jeff’s remarks by thanking him for his contributions and sharing her thoughts on the aligned missions of GSSC and Falcon Rappaport & Berkman. “Our 2024 Golf Classic honoree, Jeffrey W. Berkman, Esq., LL.M., believes in the importance of Girl Scouts and shares our vision for the future of girls," Tammy said. She emphasized the organization's role in empowering girls to become leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers. "Today’s Girl Scouts are tomorrow’s world changers, and with your support, they can do anything,” she added.

Tammy also discussed the Girl Scouts’ ongoing initiatives in underserved communities across Long Island. She highlighted the need for continued support and mentioned new programs aimed at increasing the organization's presence in these areas. “No girl should be deprived of being a Girl Scout because of financial reasons,” Tammy stated, underlining the organization’s commitment to making Girl Scouts accessible to all.

The 2024 Golf Classic was not just a fun day of golf; it was an opportunity for community members to come together in support of a meaningful cause. The funds raised will ensure that the GSSC can continue to fulfill its mission of empowering girls across Suffolk County to become tomorrow's leaders.

It’s still not too late to donate to their cause, and each $100 donated can support services for one Girl Scout. Your support will help create opportunities for more girls to thrive and achieve their full potential.