Nathan Mnookin was the first advisor and one of the founders of Aleph Zadik Aleph (AZA), and a beloved mentor whose guidance shaped generations of Jewish youth. Born in Russia and raised in Kansas City after immigrating in 1906, Mnookin graduated from the Kanas University School of Engineering and Chemistry in 1922. After graduation, he moved to Omaha to work for Cudahy Packing Company. That same year, 15 boys organized themselves into a group they called Aleph Zadik Aleph, and Mnookin agreed to serve as their advisor. He played a vital role in developing the organization’s identity, including the name “Aleph Zadik Aleph.”  

In April 1923, Mnookin moved back home to Kansas City, where founded the second chapter of AZA, Kansas City AZA #2.

His departure to Kansas City in 1923 inspired both love and admiration from the boys he mentored.

“This was a sad blow to all of us as we had learned to love and respect him,” said Mother Chapter charter member Mike Freeman said. “He was with us all the way, and all of us felt a special attachment to him.”

Future leaders like Philip Klutznick, a charter member of Kansas City AZA #2, later credited Mnookin’s early vision and devotion as the foundation upon which AZA grew into an international Jewish youth organization under B’nai B’rith.

Mnookin later co-invented a synthetic rubber called Thiokol, a discovery later used in solid rocket fuel for space exploration.

Despite initial rejection due to his slight build, Mnookin served in both World Wars. During World War II, he served in the Chemical Warfare Section of the Rocky Mountain arsenal at Denver. After the war, Mnookin returned to Kansas City, founding the Industrial Testing Laboratory and engaging actively in Jewish communal life, serving as President of B’nai B’rith Lodge No. 184.

Mnookin died on May 2, 1955, at just 54, leaving a legacy of innovation, leadership and devotion to youth.