In January 2007, I helped set up Gabby’s Congressional office in Washington, DC. We were working late one night, and Gabby suddenly walked out of her office and said, “Come on, Eli.” I didn’t know where we were going, but of course I followed her.
We walked to the house of another Congresswoman. When we entered, I saw that every person there was a woman, and nearly every one of them was wearing a pin indicating that they were members of Congress. Nancy Pelosi was there. She had just been elected the first woman Speaker of the House, so everyone was in a great mood.
We were all hanging out in the kitchen, me and a bunch of members of Congress, including the Speaker! Gabby introduced me as a student at Scripps. I couldn’t believe that I was even present at this amazing gathering, let alone that Gabby would introduce me to everyone. I ended up telling several Congresswomen about Challah for Hunger.
It was an incredible and powerful evening — and helped me appreciate Scripps more than ever.
I love you, Gabby.
Eli Winkelman