Board of Directors 

Siena Naaman Cohen is the Co-Founder and CEO of The Chosen Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Jewish identity, combating antisemitism, and empowering students and young leaders across university campuses.

Born and raised in Israel, Siena later moved to the United States, where she witnessed firsthand the growing challenges facing Jewish students and communities. Following the events of October 7, her commitment deepened into direct action. Since then, she has been actively involved in organizing campus speaking tours, community events, and initiatives that bring voices of resilience, truth, and Jewish pride to universities including UC Berkeley, Stanford, Columbia, and beyond.

Through The Chosen Foundation, Siena works closely with student leaders, Chabad centers, and community partners to create impactful programming that fosters strength, unity, and unapologetic Jewish identity.

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Siena is a LAD Leader with Israel Bonds, serves on the Israel Committee at Temple Isaiah, and sits on the board of StandWithUs, further advancing her dedication to Jewish advocacy and education. She is also a Rimon member of the Israeli-American Council (IAC).

Above all, Siena is a proud Israeli, a devoted wife, and the mother of two daughters and two bonus children. Her work is deeply personal — rooted in her identity, her family, and her belief that the next generation deserves to grow up with confidence, clarity, and pride in who they are.

Tali Dar moved to the Bay Area from Israel with her husband more than 25 years ago. Together they raised two daughters in the East Bay, placing a strong emphasis on Jewish education, Hebrew school, and the traditions they maintained in their home.

 

Early on, Tali recognized the lack of Jewish and Israeli cultural and educational activities in their area. Determined to strengthen the community, she began reaching out to Jewish organizations and advocating for programs to be established in the East Bay. Through persistence and collaboration, she helped bring new cultural, educational, and community services to the growing Jewish population in the region.

 

As a real estate professional, Tali also assisted Jewish organizations in identifying locations for community programs and activities, helping expand opportunities for connection, learning, and engagement for Jewish and Israeli families.

 

Today, Tali is proud to serve as Secretary of The Chosen Foundation, where she supports efforts to combat antisemitism through education about Israeli history, Jewish heritage, religion, and culture. She is deeply committed to promoting unity while advocating for justice, respect, and equality.

Michael Geller is a Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer of The Chosen Foundation, where he focuses on advancing community initiatives, education, and philanthropic programming grounded in Jewish values and service. He works closely with fellow board members and community partners to develop events, strategic initiatives, and outreach efforts that strengthen connection, identity, and meaningful impact.

Professionally, Michael is the founder of The Geller Firm, Inc., a California-based law practice, where he represents individuals in complex legal matters. His professional background informs his nonprofit work, bringing strategic planning, governance insight, and organizational leadership to the Foundation’s mission and long-term growth.

Michael is deeply committed to building spaces that foster dialogue, learning, and unity. Through The Chosen Foundation, he helps guide programming that supports community engagement, charitable giving, and initiatives designed to inspire the next generation of leaders. His approach combines thoughtful leadership with a strong emphasis on collaboration, transparency, and service.

Orly Koren is a long-time resident of Walnut Creek and an active member of the local Jewish and Israeli community in the East Bay. She is deeply committed to community engagement, with a strong focus on activism and volunteer efforts that strengthen and support the community and its connection to Israel.

Orly is also a proud wife and mother of four boys. She will soon serve as the head of Tzofim Shevet Egoz, further reflecting her dedication to youth leadership and community involvement.

She has had the privilege of witnessing The Chosen Foundation’s growth and evolution into the impactful organization it is today and is honored to be part of its continued mission and progress. Since October 7, she has recognized even more profoundly the critical importance of education and raising awareness about the events that occurred and their ongoing impact.