Rachel is a creative educator and innovator with over 15 years of experience supporting Education & Non-Profit Programs. She has a vision to reshape Jewish life in the 21st century, crafting educational experiences that will resonate for generations to come.
Rachel's journey started as a teenager, when she embraced the role of a madricha, preparing for her Bat Mitzvah at Reform Temple of Suffern in New York. Rachel was inspired by the Religious School principal to become a “Mitzvah Girl” - doing good in the world. She embarked on a transformative journey that saw her fulfilling roles from Eisner Camp's Program Director in the Berkshires to Teen & Experiential Education Administrator at Westchester Reform Temple in Scarsdale, and later, from Educator at Central Synagogue in NYC to Assistant Director of Education at Temple Judea in Tarzana, CA. She also earned two Master's degrees in Religious Education and Jewish Nonprofit Management from Hebrew Union College.
Beyond her career, Rachel cherishes her time outdoors, soaking up the California sun while biking, swimming, and hiking. She is an outdoors enthusiast and wannabe photographer. As a seasoned camper, she loved driving across the US, appreciating the awe-inspiring beauty of National Parks, with the dream of visiting them all one day. She shares her home with her girlfriend, Kate, and their lovable furry kids - Elijah the German Shepherd, Luna the Formosan Mountain Dog, and Phoenix Zohar the cat who will forever be a kitten at heart.
Brought on board as the Director of Education at CTJ in April 2023, Rachel has since infused the institution with her dedication and passion for Jewish Education. She is a firm believer in the transformative power of education, echoing her Grandma's words, "Education is your ticket to new heights & opportunities.” Through her innovative curricula and dedication to building community, Rachel seeks to leverage every educational opportunity as a catalyst for transformation, utilizing the deep wisdom Judaism has to offer us all.