Transforming the Jewish World

Rabbinic and Cantorial Ordination and Chaplaincy and Master of Jewish Studies Graduation

MAY 31, 2021 20 SIVAN 5781 Jewish Leadership

The Academy for Jewish Religion California (AJRCA) is a transdenominational learning institute educating , cantors, chaplains, and lay leaders who will transform Jewish communities into places of wholeness and wellbeing. We combine immersion in text and tradition with openness to the wisdom of many streams of Jewish thought and practice, giving students both the knowledge and the tools to develop their own personal integration of Judaism. Flexible scheduling, including distance learning, makes it possible for students to engage in advanced study at their own pace. All our programs offer graduate degrees accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. Above all, AJRCA recognizes each student’s unique attributes, consciously nurturing and developing their personal skills and natural gifts in order that they may reach their greatest potential. At this Ordination and Graduation ceremony, you will have a taste of the wonderful outcomes that we at the Academy experience in our lives.

The Rabbinical School Our ancient Jewish texts yield deep and precious wisdom, so Tanakh, Talmud, liturgy, mysticism, philosophy, and history are the substance of rabbinical studies. We aim for a spiritually-based approach that enables our graduates to convey the holiness of daily life, and depth of meaning in study and practice. Our rabbinical candidates also acquire specific professional and clinical pastoral skills that equip them to help those in need.

The Cantorial School Cantorial study involves immersion in our Jewish musical tradition as well as competence in a variety of musical expressions drawn from the contemporary world’s Jewish music. Through internships, our students participate fully in the larger community’s musical life. We also prepare our cantorial students for educational and pastoral roles in order to function effectively as clergy in our complex Jewish world.

The Chaplaincy School & Clinical Pastoral Education Jewish chaplains are called upon to work with diverse individuals, families, communities, and institutions, both Jewish and non-Jewish. In order to serve the needs of all of these constituencies, the Chaplaincy School successfully integrates pertinent Judaic studies and their application to modern situations with intensive training in clinical pastoral care and the study of human development. AJRCA’s Clinical Pastoral Education program continues to offer Jewish, Christian, and Buddhist students, as well as students from many other traditions, the opportunity to expand their chaplaincy skills within our fully accredited ACPE, Inc. Satellite CPE center. We are a proud ACPE, Inc. Satellite of Methodist Hospital of Southern California. In addition, our students attend InterSem, an annual retreat for Jewish and Christian seminarians, and we facilitate exchanges of students from a variety of schools.

Master of Jewish Studies Program Jewish leadership extends beyond clergy roles. For those who want to strengthen their ability to contribute to Jewish communal life, as well as to grow personally and spiritually, we offer Master’s degree programs in ethics, music, interfaith relations, Sephardic studies, and community building. Alumni Given their unique transdenominational training, Rabbis, Cantors, and Chaplains who graduate from the Academy work in a variety of denominational and transdenominational synagogues, organizations, and institutions nationwide. The following is a representative list:

PULPITS PULPITS continued Conservative Transdenominational/Progressive/Other CHAPLAINCY/SPIRITUAL CARE B’nai Shalom – Vista, CA Ahavat Torah Congregation – L.A., CA Arlington National Cemetery – Arlington, VA Congregation Agudas Achim – Austin, TX Beth Emeth Congregation – Sun City, AZ Beit T’shuvah – L.A., CA Congregation Beth Shalom – Corona, CA Beth Israel – Greeley, CO Beth Sholom Village – Virginia Beach, VA Congregation B’nai Israel – Tustin, CA Congregation Bet Shalom – Tucson, AZ Buena Vista Hospice – Thousand Oaks, CA Congregation Ner Tamid – Congregation Beth Jacob – Redwood City, CA California Dept. of Corrections – Rancho Palos Verdes, CA Congregation Beth Shalom – Sioux City, IA San Quentin, CA Congregation Sholom – Seal Beach, CA Congregation B’nai Horin – L.A., CA Cedars-Sinai Medical Center – L.A., CA Sinai Temple – L.A., CA Congregation B’nai Or – St. Croix, U.S.V.I. Companion Hospice – Culver City, CA Temple Beth Sholom of Temecula – Congregation Kehillah of Arizona – Denver Hospice – Denver, CO Temecula, CA Scottsdale, AZ Fort Belvoir Community Hospital – Temple Israel – Springfield, IL Congregation N’vay Shalom – L.A., CA Ft. Belvoir, VA Temple Ner Tamid – San Francisco, CA Congregation Shir Chadash – Lakewood, CA Greater Miami Jewish Federation – Miami, FL Temple Ramat Zion – Northridge, CA Congregation Shir Shalom – Sonoma, CA L.A. Community Chaplaincy Services – L.A., CA Temple Sholom – Greenwich, CT Desert Outreach Synagogue – Lara Hospice – L.A., CA Valley Beth Israel – Sun Valley, CA Rancho Mirage, CA Motion Picture & Television Fund – Valley Beth Shalom – Encino, CA Fountainview at Gonda – L.A., CA Woodland Hills, CA Jewish Community of Ojai – Ojai, CA Northside Hospital – Atlanta, GA Humanistic Jewish Community of Sedona and Pasadena Jewish Temple and Center – Adat Chaverim – Encino, CA Verde Valley – Sedona, AZ Pasadena, CA Nachshon Minyan – Encino, CA Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Reconstructionist / Renewal Nefesh – L.A., CA Center – Tarzana, CA Congregation P’nai Tikvah – Las Vegas, NV Oahu Jewish Ohana – Honolulu, HI Providence St. John’s Medical Center – Makom Ohr Shalom – Encino, CA Open Temple – Venice, CA Santa Monica, CA Wholly Present, A Center for Embodied San Diego Outreach Syn. – San Diego, CA Sacred Work with Candi – Lake Oswego, OR Spirituality – El Sobrante, CA Temple Beth El – Santa Maria, CA Seasons Hospice – Broward County, FL Temple Ner Simcha – Agoura Hills, CA Shalom Park Elder Community – Aurora, CO Reform Temple Shalom – Colorado Springs, CO Skirball Hospice – L.A., CA Bet Knesset Bamidbar – Las Vegas, NV Valley Outreach Synagogue – Calabasas, CA Sparta Project – Valencia, CA Beth Emet – Evanston, IL Zimrat Yah – Santa Barbara, CA St. Paul’s Towers – Oakland, CA Congregation Beth Israel – Phoenix, AZ Valley Outreach Synagogue – Calabasas, CA Congregation Beth Israel – West Hartford, CT JEWISH COMMUNAL LEADERSHIP Walter Reed National Military Medical Congregation B’nai Tikvah – Walnut Creek, CA Center – Bethesda, MD Congregation Emanu-El – San Francisco, CA ALEPH Alliance for – Philadelphia, PA Congregation Ner Tamid – Henderson, NV JEWISH EDUCATION Congregation of Reform Judaism – Orlando, FL California Lutheran University – Congregation Ohr Tzafon – Atascadero, CA Thousand Oaks, CA Beit Kulam – Sherwood Forest, CA Jewish Communities of the Desert – Camp JCA Shalom – Malibu, CA Congregation Tikvat Jacob – Desert Hot Springs, CA Sandra Caplan Community Beit Din – Manhattan Beach, CA Lev Chadash – Chino Valley, AZ Culver City, CA Jewish Community Center – San Francisco, CA Temple Akiba – Culver City, CA Shalom Hartman Instititute – L.A., CA Jewish Community High School of the Bay – Temple Bat Yahm – Newport Beach, CA Shalom Institute – Malibu, CA San Francisco, CA Temple Beth David – Temple City, CA Shutafim, New Mexico Jewish Connections Jewish Day School of Metropolitan Seattle Temple Beth El – Aptos, CA – Albuquerque, NM – Bellevue, WA Temple Beth Hillel – Richmond, CA Taproot – L.A., CA Melton School of Adult Jewish Learning – Temple Beth Israel – Pomona, CA L.A., CA Temple Beth Tikvah – Wayne, NJ ACADEMIA Ohr Echad/Home Shul – Agoura Hills, CA Temple B’rith Shalom – Prescott, AZ Tarbut v’Torah Day School – Irvine, CA Academy for Jewish Religion California – Temple Emanuel – Beverly Hills, CA Temple Beth Israel – Eugene, OR L.A., CA Temple Emanuel – Pueblo, CO Temple Menorah – Redondo Beach, CA Georgetown University – Washington D.C. Wilshire Boulevard Temple – L.A., CA University of Arizona, College of Medicine – Tucson, AZ OTHER Valley College – L.A., CA Jewish Book Council Network – N.Y., NY Yavapai Community College – Prescott, AZ Let There Be Light Judaic Art – L.A., CA Community Events and Educational Opportunities

As we celebrate our 21st year of inspiring and educating Jewish leaders, we are proud to highlight our events of the past year. Avid learners from around the world have attended our events and learning opportunities via livestreaming.

“Jewish/Latter-Day Saint Dialogue” – This semi-annual academic dialogue, hosted by Brigham Young University, was led by Mark Diamond and Dr. Steven Windmueller speaking from the Jewish perspective, and by Dr. Andy Reed and Dr. Shon Hopkin speaking from the Latter-day Saint perspective.

“Music Rising” – The story of the early modern cantor from 1500-1750. Led by Matthew Austerklein.

“Making Music with the Little Ones” – A lesson on early childhood development and learning patterns and an exploration of and High Holy Days songs. Led by Kira Rappaport, musician, music teacher, and creator of a 36-week preschool music curriculum.

“Should Doctors Help Us Die?” – A conversation on Jewish ethics and assisted dying with Rabbi Neal Scheindlin, adjunct lecturer of Rabbinics at Hebrew Union College-Los Angeles and the Ziegler School at American Jewish University.

“Resistance and Resilience in Dark Times” – Hendrika de Vries shared her life experiences from her childhood in the dark days of Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. Hendrika is a therapist, adjunct faculty at Pacifica Graduate Institute and author of “When a Toy Dog Became a Wolf and the Moon Broke Curfew.”

“Tikkun Olam and Public Service” – A look at public service in California with California State Senator Ben Allen, representative of the 26th Senate District, which covers Westside, Hollywood and coastal South Bay communities of Los Angeles County. Senator Allen discussed his experience as a Jewish politician, and how Judaism has shaped his career in public service.

“End of Life Options“ – A presentation by Leonard M. Lipman, M.D. on compassion and choices about the California End of Life Options Act.

“As Jewish As Mama’s Chicken Soup“ – A discussion with Dr. Jody Myers on how industrialized food production has affected the way many modern Jews think about authentic Jewish cuisine.

“A Jewish Response to Industrial Animal Agriculture“ – An in-depth look at industrial animal agriculture through a Jewish lens with Dr. Aaron Gross, an internationally respected expert on religion and animals.

“Legal Advice for Contract Negotiations“ – Presented by Robert S. Libman, Attorney. Mr Libman has represented rabbis, cantors and senior staff in a variety of employment matters. Community Events and Educational Opportunities (continued)

Two community lecture series taught by Rabbi Dr. Mel Gottlieb, AJRCA President – • “Touching the Soul” – A dive into the teachings of Rav Kook, the Chofetz Chaim, and the Ba’al Shem Tov. This course allowed students to discover psycho-spiritual gems found within the Jewish tradition and learn the classic ideas that these masters articulate in their works.

• “The Secrets of the Kabbalah and the Hebrew Alphabet” – This class explored the inner psycho/spiritual dimensions found in the meditative and contemplative mystical traditions of Kabbalah, Hasidism and Mussar. Students explored their spiritual journeys and became more conscious of strengths and challenges as they traveled the paths of the ancient masters.

“Being Black and Jewish“ – An online forum where AJRCA students shared their personal experiences of being part of both the Jewish and Black communities, with students Jenni Asher, Robin Harrison and Avigayil Levy-Yochanan.

“Voices of Hope, Acts of Kindness“ – A look at mutual assistance in the Holocaust at LMU’s Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration, presented by AJRCA, LMU’s Jewish Studies Department, and Yad Vashem. Musical contributions coordinated by AJRCA cantorial student, Amy Robinson Katz and Perryne Anker, Interim Dean, AJRCA Cantorial School.

“Climate Change – Protecting the Earth, Our Common Home: Sharing Our Commitment in Worship and Deeds“ – An interfaith service by AJRCA and LMU, bringing together Judaism and Catholicism; led by keynote speaker Rabbi Sharon Brous, Founder and Senior Rabbi of IKAR.

AJRCA Chaplaincy School’s Center for Spiritual Resilience invited prominent speakers to discuss aspects of spiritual care and education. Presentations were coordinated by Vice President Rabbi Rochelle Robins, Dean of the Chaplaincy School. This year’s public series included: • Dr. Duane Bidwell, “When One Religion Isn’t Enough: The Lives of Spiritually Fluid People” • Rabbi Susan Freeman, “To Dwell In Your House: Vignettes and Spiritual Reflections on Caregiving at Home” • “Navigating Religious Difference in Spiritual Care and Counseling” with Rev. Dr. Kathleen Greider, Rev. Dr. Insook Lee, Rabbi Rochelle Robins, Rev. Dr. Monica Sanford, Rev. Dr. Jill Snodgrass and Rev. Dr. Pamela Ayo Yetunde • Chaplain Richard F. Groves, “The American Book of Living and Dying: Lessons in Healing Spiritual Pain”

In partial fulfillment of their Master’s degrees, thesis presentations and senior cantorial recitals were shared with the community by graduating rabbinic, cantorial, chaplaincy and MJS students. Rabbinical Class of 2021

JAMIE HACKEL HYAMS vektu irvtu sea ,c kgh Jamie Hyams received her BA in History from Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon and her BFA in Textile History from the California College for the Arts in Oakland, California. She lived in Israel for three years and studied at the Hebrew University in Jerusalem. A “modern Levite,” Jamie has worked at many Jewish institutions including Hillel at Stanford, the Contra Costa JCC, and the Shalom Hartman Institute of North America. Jamie is an out-of-the-box thinker with an entrepreneurial spirit. She is the founder of Kehillat Haverim, a community of friends living their lives under the umbrella of Jewish values. An avid cyclist, Jamie has combined cycling and Jewish life in innovative ways including The Foothill Century: The Only Kosher Ride in the West! and Team JCC which participated in the AIDS/Lifecycle raising funds for the San Francisco AIDS Foundation. This journey would not have been possible without the love and support of my husband, Michael, who challenged me to dig deep, and our sons, Sam and Will. To my mother who helped me to start and my father and step-mother whose pride and encouragement buoyed me. Thank you to the Academy for creating a safe space in which to grow. To my colleagues who cheered me on; to Congregation P’nai Tikvah, the community of meaning for which I longed; and to my friends far and wide, thank you. Special thanks to Rabbis Yocheved Mintz, Neil Comess-Daniels and Dan Goldblatt who mentored me under loving wings into the rabbi I was to become. Upon ordination, Rabbi Jamie will continue to serve as a rabbi of Congregation P’nai Tikvah in Las Vegas, and as the Director of Development at Hebrew Free Loan in San Francisco. In her spare time, she plans to launch Jewish Life Cycle: a Jewish cycling community combining travel, Torah and tikkun olam.

DEBORAH LYNN LEWIS gkgdu ktpr ,c vrucs Deborah Lynn Lewis graduated from Gratz College with a BA in Jewish Studies. She is a member of Congregation B’nai Brith (CBB) in Santa Barbara and credits her congregation for instilling within her a great love of Judaism and the Jewish people. Deborah currently serves as the spiritual leader for the Santa Ynez Valley Jewish Community and looks forward to growing and learning with this very warm and wonderful community. Deborah has completed her third unit of Clinical Pastoral Education and is working toward becoming a Board-Certified Chaplain. She is the Clinical Chaplaincy Intern at Jewish Federation of Greater Santa Barbara County, helping to provide visitation to those that are home-bound. At CBB Deborah has taught practical Judaism to those on the journey toward Judaism. She finds serving these individuals and families to be profoundly meaningful and a great honor. I am grateful to the AJRCA community for providing knowledgeable, caring teachers and staff, as well as like-minded fellow students, now colleagues and friends. I am humbled by my CBB family and friends, my committed cheerleaders who continually teach me new ways to be loving, supportive, and present. I want to acknowledge the Wednesday morning women’s Torah study group — Judy, Linda and Mahela, as well as my mother Barbara, who has always been a loving and encouraging presence. To Janet Lachais and Amy Locke, I am eternally grateful for your encouragement to start this amazing journey. And to my beshert Traci, you’ve been my rock; without your support I would have never been able to realize this achievement. Upon ordination, Rabbi Lewis will continue her work as rabbi, teacher and chaplain, serving the Greater Santa Barbara Jewish Community generally and the Santa Ynez Valley Jewish Community specifically. Rabbinical Class of 2021

AMIEL TUVIA MONSON vkru van ktrah crv ic vhcuy kthng Amiel Monson graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania with a BA in Comparative Religion and a certificate in Jewish Studies. He went on to achieve three Masters Degrees from Gratz College in Elkins Park, Pennsylvania — in Jewish Education, Jewish Communal Service, and Jewish Studies. While a student at the Academy, Amiel was the Director of Youth Engagement at Valley Beth Shalom in Encino. Amiel has been a Jewish professional for most of his adult life. He has held various positions, including Program Director at Maccabi USA/Sports for Israel, Program Director and then Associate Director at Queens College Hillel, as well as a Jewish Studies teacher at Perelman Schechter Day School in Elkins Park. Amiel has been on the Hebrew School team for a myriad of synagogues over the last 25 years, and has worked with both Jewish youth and the Jewish aging population in multiple capacities. To my wife Manya, thank you for your love, patience and encouragement. To my sons Moshe and Ravi, you motivate me beyond what I thought possible. I am grateful to my parents Dr. Rela M. Geffen z”l, Rabbi Michael A. Monson, and Fani Magnus Monson for their never-ending support. Much thanks to my brother Uri and my extended family, especially my Aunts Jennifer Monson z”l and Lisa Schlesinger and my Uncle Jim Schlesinger for their wisdom and kindness. And to my AJRCA professors and classmates, and the AJRCA administration — thank you for your pedagogy, support, and friendship. Upon ordination, Rabbi Amiel Tuvia Monson will be a fourth generation rabbi. Starting in June, Rabbi Monson has accepted a position in Albany, New York, and will be the Jewish Community Chaplain for Jewish Family Services of Northeastern New York and Daughters of Sarah Community for Seniors.

CANTOR SAMUEL B. RADWINE vtku hukv kgarhv ic ihnhbc ktuna izjv Cantor Samuel B. Radwine graduated from the University of Illinois with a BA in Instrumental Music Education and went on to teach within the Bethany, Illinois public school system. Sam left Illinois for New York City, where he studied at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Debbie Friedman School of Sacred Music, and was ordained as a cantor in 1981. After serving pulpits in Fair Lawn, New Jersey and Danbury, Connecticut, he came to Congregation Ner Tamid, in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, where he served both as Cantor and Director of Education, becoming Cantor Emeritus in 2013. During his time in California, Cantor Radwine served on the faculty of Hebrew Union College, Los Angeles campus, and for the Rabbinical and Cantorial Schools of the Academy for Jewish Religion California. After “retirement,” Cantor Radwine and his husband relocated to Palm Springs, where he served as Cantor for the Sun City Jewish Congregation and Har El Congregation, both in Palm Desert. In 2017, Cantor Radwine relocated to Bentonville, Arkansas, and joined the local synagogue, Congregation Etz Chaim. Not too much time passed before Cantor Radwine was asked to become the community’s spiritual leader. It was while in this role that he decided to pursue rabbinic smicha. I am grateful to the faculty and administration of the Academy, for giving me the opportunity to study. In a sense, my rabbinical training began over 40 years ago with so many wonderful and wise rabbis with whom I shared bimahs. Standing next to me today in spirit are my beloved parents, Harry and Leila Picker Radwine, both of blessed memory. And to my bashert — the love of my life, Wade — I thank you for the consistent wisdom, love, and support that emanates from your soul. Upon ordination, Rabbi-Cantor Radwine will continue in his role as leader of Congregation Etz Chaim of northwest Arkansas, and as a member of the AJRCA faculty. Cantorial Class of 2021

ABBY GOSTEIN vjubnu ohrpt ,c khdhct Abby Gostein holds a BA in Psychology from Yale University and an MA in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Texas, Austin. Her life has been devoted to Jewish education and spiritual growth through Jewish music. She has served Reform congregations since 1994 and has taught Jewish music to religious school children since 1984. Abby has served Temple Beth Shalom (Austin, Texas) in a cantorial role since 2004, helping it grow from a fledgling congregation to one with 650 households. A renowned published composer of Jewish liturgical music, Abby’s compositions are sung throughout the United States and internationally. Many of her pieces have been selected for presentation at Jewish liturgical music festivals and cantorial conferences. She has produced two CD’s — “Each Blessing,” featuring original compositions, and “Kol Hakavod,” a congregational CD showcasing the Temple Beth Shalom Kol Hakavod Ensemble. Abby has co-chaired two national conferences for the Women Cantors’ Network and served on its Music Commission Committee. She has served as VP of Membership for the Guild of Temple Musicians, and for many years as a GTM delegate to the URJ’s Joint Commission on Worship, Music and Religious Living. To my husband Michael, thank you for being my stronghold (and personal chef) throughout this journey. Your unfaltering support enabled me to reach this moment. To my sons, Daniel and Aaron, thank you for your encouragement and patience throughout my studies. I am grateful to my clergy partners and the Temple Beth Shalom staff and Board for their tremendous support, and especially to Rabbi Alan Freedman for his long-time encouragement, menschlichkeit, listening and gentle guidance. To AJRCA, thank you for making me the first “hybrid” cantorial student. And to my amazing, inspiring classmates, I am so grateful to have been on this journey with you. Upon ordination, Cantor Gostein will continue to serve as cantor of Temple Beth Shalom in Austin, Texas.

JACQUELINE SHOSHANA RAFII, JD vdubu van ,c vbaua Jacqueline Rafii is a Wexner Graduate Fellow, one of twenty young Jewish leaders selected annually to help strengthen the future of Jewish America. She graduated summa cum laude from UCLA with a BA in Comparative Literature and a minor in Hebrew and Jewish Studies, and she earned her JD from UCLA School of Law. Jacqueline practiced entertainment law in Los Angeles for three years before entering full- time synagogue work. While pursuing law, she led services as a cantorial soloist at synagogues throughout Los Angeles, including Sinai Temple and Wilshire Boulevard Temple, and she served as the first female prayer leader at the Iranian Jewish Senior Center’s High Holy Days services. Jacqueline is the Cantorial Soloist and Director of Music at Shomrei Torah Synagogue, where she develops and directs all musical activities and creative prayer experiences. She has conceived and produced innovative musical projects such as Songstruck, Shabbat Around the World, and Zamru. She regularly collaborates with colleagues from around the country, and recently co-produced a virtual Shabbat Shirah service with global reach honoring women composers. Eager to collaborate with congregants in the synagogue’s musical life, Jacqueline founded and conducts multiple musical groups, including, this year, the Virtual Adult, Teen, and Youth Choirs. Jacqueline is inspired by her Persian Jewish heritage, and has conducted original fieldwork in the preservation, notation, and dissemination of Persian melodies. She also composes and shares original melodies of Jewish sacred texts. I extend my deepest gratitude to my dear husband Lev, who believes in my dreams and pushes me to achieve them. Thank you to my beloved parents and brother for your constant love and support. I am grateful to the Shomrei Torah community for welcoming me with open arms and for being my second home. Thank you to my cherished cantorial and rabbinic mentors, at AJRCA and beyond, who have generously guided me along this journey. Jacqueline is thrilled to serve as the Cantor of Shomrei Torah Synagogue after ordination. Cantorial Class of 2021

ALYSSA HELAINE ROSENBAUM tbhhau vnka sus ,c vuj vcuy Alyssa Rosenbaum graduated cum laude from Lawrence University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in German and a minor in Linguistics. After graduating college, Alyssa served as a High Holiday soloist at her hometown synagogue, Congregation Beth Shalom in Northbrook, Illinois. Realizing her calling to the Cantorate, she was pointed in the direction of AJRCA by her cantor, Hazzan Steven Stoehr. After learning to play guitar, Alyssa began writing Jewish/liturgical songs, as well as some secular songs, many of which she has shared within her communities. Alyssa is in the process of producing her debut album of Jewish music and looks forward to sharing her music with the world. She has performed in programs for the Benefactors of the Jewish Club of 1933, Temple Ahavat Torah, and the Jewish Home for the Aging, and has appeared in numerous concerts in the Los Angeles area. During her time at AJRCA, Alyssa worked as Cantorial Intern and taught Hebrew and trope at Sinai Temple in Los Angeles. She also worked as Cantorial Soloist at Temple Beth Ami in Santa Clarita. This past year, she has been serving the cantorial role at Temple Sinai of Glendale. I would like to thank my parents, David and Donna Rosenbaum, who always encourage me to follow my passions and continually offer their support, guidance, and love. I am grateful to all the teachers and clergy who have honed my voice and helped shape me. To my friends, siblings, and family — thank you for being a constant source of comfort, strength, and joy. The AJRCA community has my heartfelt gratitude for their immense support and inspiration on my journey to becoming a cantor, as do all the communities I have been part of and served. Upon ordination, Cantor Alyssa Rosenbaum will continue serving as Cantor at Temple Sinai of Glendale. She looks forward to embarking upon her cantorial career while maintaining her passions for language, music, cooking, and art. Chaplaincy Class of 2021

ADAM ROBIN KINSEY vrutu uvh,,n ic ost Adam Kinsey received his equivalency certificate and dropped out of high school in 1982. After being a restaurant worker, musician, political activist, and writer, he attended New College of California, studying with Maria Espinosa, David Meltzer, and others. Adam received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities (Creative Writing emphasis). He was then a writer, baker, activist, and nonprofit office manager until he attended Eastern Washington University, studying with Ursula Hegi and John Keeble, and earning his Master of Fine Art in Creative Writing. Adam continued to write, publishing short stories and essays while holding jobs in a variety of fields. Adam came to AJRCA’s Chaplaincy School having completed two units of Clinical Pastoral Education, CPE, through the California Pacific Medical Center program, interning through the program at San Francisco’s Pacific, St. Lukes, and Davies hospitals. While at AJRCA, he interned at Hospice of Petaluma for two years (where he had also served as a volunteer). Currently, Adam is a member of the hospice Spiritual Care Team for Providence Health System in Sonoma County. I thank my mother, Eleanor Shlifer (k''z), and father, Thorne Kinsey (v''g), and have so much gratitude and love for my mother-in-love, Marion Kaplan (k''z). I am grateful to my daughter, Esmé Kaplan-Kinsey, for the depth she calls me to. And I especially thank my love, Rachel Kaplan, whose patience, spirit, and encouragement have been the yarn from which this process has been woven. And thank you to my student comrades, my honored teachers, and all the staff that make AJRCA happen everyday, for loving me into the village. s''xc Being a hospice chaplain weaves together Adam’s passions for leveraging kindness in the world, engaged creativity, and serving Hashem. Upon graduation, he will continue this work, as well as his writing, considering issues of death, career changes in midlife, and becoming religious.

Master of Jewish Studies Class of 2021

LINDA R. BERNSTEIN, PharmD ivf ,c vkhhcu hukv hfsrn ,c kjr vtk Dr. Linda Bernstein attended UC Berkeley for pre-pharmacy coursework and went on to receive her Doctor of Pharmacy at the School of Pharmacy, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF). She is a licensed pharmacist, and serves as Founder and President of Vita Media Corporation, a medical communications company. Linda is a Clinical Professor on the volunteer faculty of the UCSF School of Pharmacy and has held leadership positions for the San Francisco Department of Public Health, San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living, and Safeway Corporate Pharmacy, among others. Linda has received national and international recognition for her pharmacy research and media endeavors, including the UCSF Campaign Alumni Award for her ground-breaking work as a media pharmacist. Linda is an accomplished producer, writer, host and spokesperson of numerous national TV, radio, print and internet health and pharmacy educational materials and campaigns for professionals and consumers of all ages. Linda is a member of Congregation Beth Sholom, San Francisco, where she has served as Shaliach Tzibur (lay service leader), Board Vice President and Ritual Chairperson. I thank my husband, Dr. Gary Stein, my children, grandchildren, family and friends for their support and encouragement. I acknowledge the faculty and staff of AJRCA for their excellent instruction, inspiration and assistance. I am especially grateful to my teacher and advisor, Cantor Jonathan Friedmann, PhD. I dedicate this journey to the memory of my parents and family members who have passed, and who would have been very proud to see this new direction in my life. Upon graduation, Linda will receive a Master of Jewish Studies with an Emphasis on Music in Jewish Life. She will continue her studies at the Academy’s Rabbinical School, working towards rabbinic smicha. She is also a Cantorial Intern of the Cantors Assembly (CICA) and takes courses at AJRCA to satisfy her Hazzan requirements. Dr. Bernstein hopes to creatively incorporate her training so that she may continue to serve Jewish communities throughout the Bay Area in a meaningful way. Master of Jewish Studies Class of 2021

JONAH HERBERT SANDERSON vtku lubj ic vbuh Jonah Sanderson earned his Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice from Penn Foster College. A committed lifelong learner, Jonah has studied Talmud and Judaism at both Aish HaTorah, Jerusalem and at Sh’or Yoshuv, a yeshiva in New York. Jonah is a devoted student of Chassidut and has seen firsthand how Chassidic teachings can positively affect people’s mental health. Pursuing his passion for outreach and suicide prevention, Jonah and Rabbi Richard Camras of Shomrei Torah created the first Jewish outreach program to tackle the epidemic of suicide. This program, Back Engaged Now, has changed the Jewish landscape both in Los Angeles and beyond, touching the lives of over 1,200 people around the world. Jonah has been featured in the Jewish Journal nearly a dozen times, as well as The Forward, Tablet, and the Los Angeles Daily News. As a result of his work and his desire to serve the Jewish people, Jonah was propelled to further his education and achieve a master’s degree in Jewish Studies. I would like to thank God for bringing me and my family to this beautiful day, and for bringing me to the Academy. None of this would have been possible without my loving parents and sister, who always offer their support and encouragement. Thank you to Rabbi Mel Gottlieb and Rabbi Stan Levy and to Rabbi Yitz Jacobs for showing me that anything and everything is possible. And to my friend, Alisha Pedowitz, thank you for always encouraging me to embrace the differences in our Jewish community. Upon graduation, Jonah plans to continue his efforts of outreach and communal service, and spreading awareness and prevention of suicide. Leaders of the Academy

CHAPLAIN MARLENE CANTER Chaplain Marlene Canter graduated from the Academy in 2015. She currently serves as the Chair of the Academy’s Board of Directors. Marlene came to AJRCA after a career in Education. She taught Special Education, co-founded and co-ran an educational training company and served on the Los Angeles Unified School Board for 8 years, 2 years as President of the Board. She now volunteers at griefHaven facilitating grief groups as a grief counselor. Chaplain Canter continues her work in education by being the National Board Chair of the Green Dot Public Schools, a charter school organization, and is also on the Board of City Year Los Angeles. In addition, she serves as a Board member on the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce, co-chair Education council, as well as at the Joseph Drown Foundation.

RABBI MEL GOTTLIEB, PhD Rabbi Mel Gottlieb, PhD serves as President and Interim Dean of the Rabbinical School. He previously served as President (2006–2012) as well as Dean of the Rabbinical and Chaplaincy Schools. During his presidency, he co-founded AJRCA’s groundbreaking collaborative initiative in interreligious studies with Claremont School of Theology and the Islamic Center of Southern California. Rabbi Gottlieb serves as Senior Fellow on the Academic Leadership Team at Claremont Lincoln University and is a member of the Board of Directors. Rabbi Gottlieb was ordained at Yeshiva University. He holds a doctorate in Mythology/Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute where he has served as an Adjunct Faculty member. He has also taught at Columbia, Yeshiva University, and the University of Southern California’s Graduate School of Social Work. His essays have appeared in publications such as the Huffington Post, the national journals Ideas and Sh’ma, and the book Illuminating Letters. He is a frequent guest lecturer at the C.G. Jung Institute of Los Angeles as well as at synagogues of all denominations throughout Southern California. Rabbi Gottlieb is the former Director of Hillel at MIT and Princeton, and was the Rabbi at Kehillat Ma’arav in Santa Monica as well as Westwood Village Synagogue.

RABBI ROCHELLE ROBINS Vice President of the Academy and Dean of the Chaplaincy School, Rabbi Rochelle Robins also serves as the Director of the school’s Clinical Pastoral Education program. She earned her smicha at Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion in 1998. Rabbi Robins previously served as the rabbinic Staff Chaplain at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, and the Supervisor of Pastoral Education and Co-coordinator of the Jewish Hospice Program at Samaritan Hospice of Southern New Jersey. She is a Certified Educator of Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE, Inc.). Rabbi Robins was the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Bat Kol, an organization that began as Jerusalem’s first feminist yeshiva, and then expanded its mission to include interfaith coalition-building and health care education in the United States. Whether Rabbi Robins is teaching text, assisting patients and family members, training chaplains, or administering social entrepreneurial projects, healing and wholeness are at the heart of her rabbinate. Leaders of the Academy

CANTOR PERRYNE ANKER Interim Dean of the Cantorial School, Cantor Anker was a student at the Cleveland Institute of Music and mentored by Cantors Saul Meisels and Maurice Goldman. She received her Bachelor of Science degree and the Catherine Tuck Award from The Juilliard School in New York. While in New York, she studied and performed with leading Jewish music composers, cantors, conductors, and music scholars. Cantor Anker also performed extensively in musical theatre in New York. She has served as Cantor at Stephen Wise Temple in Los Angeles, Beth Sholom in Santa Monica, and Temple of the Arts in Los Angeles. In 2014, Cantor Anker was honored by AJRCA, and awarded an honorary smicha by the Cantorial School. She is a leading voice teacher and coach, as well as a member of the American Conference of Cantors.

CANTOR JONATHAN L. FRIEDMANN, PhD Cantor Jonathan L. Friedmann, PhD, is Associate Dean of the Master of Jewish Studies Program, Professor of Jewish Music History, and Director of Institutional Research. He holds an MA in Religious Studies from California State University, Long Beach, a Master of Jewish Sacred Music and Cantorial Ordination from AJRCA, and a PhD in Hebrew Bible from the joint program of Greenwich School of Theology (UK) and North West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa. In addition to his AJRCA duties, Jonathan is President of the Western States Jewish History Association, Director of the Jewish Museum of the American West, and Community Leader and Education Director of Adat Chaverim – Congregation for Humanistic Judaism, Los Angeles. He is the author/editor of 25 books, most recently Songs of Sonderling: Commissioning Jewish Émigré Composers in Los Angeles, 1938–1945, co-authored with AJRCA alumnus Cantor John Guest. The Academy for Jewish Religion California Rabbinical, Cantorial, Chaplaincy and MJS Faculty

In the words of one of our students: “I have no doubt that I am working with a world-class faculty.” The Academy is indeed blessed to have attracted a faculty with impeccable professional reputations, remarkable intellectual breadth, and outstanding qualifications. They include renowned scholars who have taught at such prestigious institutions as Columbia, MIT, Stanford, Georgetown, UC Berkeley, Princeton, UCLA, UCLA Medical School, USC, Loyola Marymount, Ohio State, American Jewish University, Notre Dame, Hebrew Union College, Yeshiva University, Claremont, and Hebrew University; as well as exceptional congregational clergy affiliated with some of the most prominent Orthodox, Conservative, Reconstructionist, Reform, and Renewal synagogues in the Los Angeles area.

Cantor Perryne Anker Robert Levy, PhD, z”l

Judy Aronson Rabbi Stan Levy, JD

Yolande Bloomstein, PhD Rabbi Alicia Magal

Rabbi Daniel Bouskila Rabbi Michael Menitoff, PhD

Rabbi Anne Brener Rabbi Haim Ovadia

Rabbi Mark Diamond Cantor Samuel B. Radwine

Rabbi Mordecai Finley, PhD Rabbi/Cantor Eva Robbins

Cantor Jay Frailich Rabbi Stephen M. Robbins, PsyD

Tamar Frankiel, PhD Rabbi Rochelle Robins

Cantor Jonathan Friedmann, PhD Rabbi Elijah Schochet, PhD

Joel Gereboff, PhD Rabbi Aharon Serr

Cantor Joseph Gole Rabbi Tal Sessler, PhD

Rabbi Mel Gottlieb, PhD Saba Soomekh, PhD

Rabbi Avraham Greenstein Tali Tadmor, PhD

Cantor Don Gurney Cantor Alan Weiner

Rabbi Yehuda Hausman Rabbi/Cantor Arik Wollheim

Rabbi Avraham Havivi, MD Ahoova Zeffren

Vered Hopenstand Jacob Zighelboim, MD

Aviva Levin, DMin President & Interim Dean, Coordinator of Registration & Operations BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rabbinic School Elea Friedman Chaplain Marlene Canter, Chair Rabbi Mel Gottlieb, PhD Rabbi Bruce Skolnick, MD, PhD, Vice-Chair Director of Internships & Placement Vice-President & Rabbi Faith Tessler Benjamin Bonavida, PhD Dean, Chaplaincy School Sara L. Cannon Rabbi Rochelle Robins Controller Susan Casamassima Graciela Makow Gregory Chazanas Interim Dean, Cantorial School Rabbi Mark Diamond Cantor Perryne Anker Technical and Administrative Support Rabbi Igael Gurin-Malous Eva Bilick Charles Hamrell, MD Associate Dean, Master of Jewish Studies Rabbi Stan Levy, JD Program & Director of Institutional Research Julie G. Madorsky, MD Cantor Jonathan Friedmann, PhD Alvin Martin, PhD, CPA Rabbi Yocheved Mintz Chief Financial Officer Alvin Martin, CPA, PhD Rabbi Laura Owens Rabbi Stephen M. Robbins, PsyD Director of Administration & Chaplain Deborah Schmidt, JD Financial Aid Officer Rabbi Arthur Stern, PhD Lauren Shandling Goldner Shoshi Wilchfort

Director of Admissions & Recruitment Board Emeritus Robin Federman Jacob Zighelboim, MD AJRCA Co-Founders Rabbi Mordecai Finley, PhD Rabbi Stan Levy, JD Rabbi Stephen M. Robbins, PsyD

FOUNDING ACADEMY COUNCIL Jeffrey I. Abrams, JD Gil Graff, PhD Rabbi Jeffrey Roth Cantor Roslyn J. Barak Noreen Green, DMA Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi, DHL, z”l Michael Berenbaum, PhD Rabbi Judith Halevy Rabbi Arthur Gross-Schaefer, JD, CPA Cantor Ira Bigeleisen Cantor Peter Halpern Frederic C. Schultz, JD Rabbi Lynn Brody Slome Rabbi Burt Jacobson Rabbi Allen Secher Rabbi Wayne Dosick, PhD Rabbi Shoni Labowitz, z”l Rabbi Natan Segal Rabbi Ted Falcon, PhD Iris Levin, PhD Rabbi Jack Shechter, PhD Rabbi Ed Feinstein Rabbi Naomi Levy Amy Hill Shevitz, PhD Cantor Meier Finkelstein Rabbi Alan Lew, z”l Rabbi Daniel Siegel Cantor Herschel Fox Batya Malick Cantor Lance Tapper Cantor Chayim Frenkel Rabbi Allen Maller Savina J. Teubal, PhD, z”l Debbie Friedman, z”l Rabbi Levi Meier, PhD, z”l Rabbi Shohama Wiener, DMin Maurice Friedman, PhD, z”l Rabbi Debra Orenstein Rabbi Isaiah Zeldin, z”l Selwyn Gerber, CPA Cantor Alisa Pomerantz-Boro Rabbi David Zeller, z”l Cantor Binyamin Glickman Rabbi Marcia Prager Rabbi Edward Zerin, PhD Rabbi Shefa Gold Rabbi Jack Riemer Major Donors AJRCA greatly acknowledges our donors whose generosity and commitment have helped the Academy grow from “strength to strength” since our inception. May you take pride in knowing that your support is making a difference in the Jewish community nationwide. Please note that in each category the donors are listed in alphabetical order. ANGELS Jeffrey I. Abrams, JD & Michele Breslauer, JD, Herbert Kameon Charitable Lead Trust Righteous Persons Foundation Breslauer Foundation/Soref Foundation Cantor Nathan Lam, Handy, and Weiss families Lance Robbins, JD The Lynn and Les Bider Family Foundation Rabbi Stan Levy, JD & Lynda Levy Ansel Slome, JD & Rabbi Lynn Brody Slome Chaplain Marlene Canter Alvin Martin, PhD & Chaplain Muriel Dance, PhD Rabbi Barbara Zacky Neal Castleman & Ellen Hoffman Castleman Rabbi Yocheved Mintz, Jacob Zighelboim, MD & Vivien Zighelboim, PhD Peter W. Doerken & Candis Duke in memory of Dr. Alan P. Mintz, z”l Rabbi Mel Gottlieb, PhD & Annette Gottlieb, MD PATRONS Jack Bender & Rabbi Laura Owens Gregory & Gaby Chazanas The Hon. Robert Schnider (ret.) & Michael M. Berger, JD & Rabbi Janet Madden Richard & Shari Foos Cantor Perryne Anker Leon Biederman, PhD & Aviva Biederman, MD Rabbi/Cantor Judith Greenfeld Frederic C. Schultz, JD Arthur Bilger, JD & Dahlia Bilger Charles Hamrell, MD & Rabbi Miriam Hamrell Stanton L. (Larry) Stein & Jackie Stein Benjamin Bonavida, PhD & Ofra Bonavida Ralph Mannheimer, z”l & Batya Malick Howard Toff, MD & Cheryl Toff Robert & Sara Cannon Ken & Wendy Ruby Barry Wolfe Franklin R. Wurtzel, JD, z”l & Karen Wurtzel BENEFACTORS Earl & Elly Appel Rabbi Arthur Levine, PhD, JD & Barbara Levine Sarah’s Tent for the establishment of the Savina Mark & Deborah Attanasio for”Judith Ann Glick, z”l, Teubal, z”l Chair in Jewish Women’s Studies Susan Casamassima Memorial Scholarship Fund” Sidney Stern Memorial Trust (Samuel J. & Thelma Sills Foundation) Julie G. Madorsky, MD Rabbi Bruce Skolnick, MD, PhD Lloyd & Margit Cotsen Sid & Carole Meltzner Naomi Vanek Rabbi Mordecai Finley, PhD & Meirav Finley Milken Family Foundation Leonard M. Wechsler Selwyn & Glynis Gerber Jerry & Anne Moss Bruce Whizin Luis Lainer, JD & Lee Lainer Izydor & Shoshi Wilchfort PARTNERS Dr. David & Sara Aftergood Gold Living Trust (Stanley Gold) Roger Richman, JD, z”l & Diane Richman Angell Foundation GUESS? Foundation Rabbi Stephen & Rabbi/Cantor Eva Robbins Kerry Assil, MD Michael & Cantor Lorna Lembeck Alan, z”l & Dee Robin Barbara Benedek Jebb Levy, z”l (The Hyman Jebb Levy Foundation) David & Arva Rose Cantors Benefit Concert Scholarships The Ernest Lieblich Foundation Bernie & Hanna Rubinstein (for Cantorial Students) Byrdie Lifson-Pompan, for Robert (Bob) Lifson, z”l, Dr. Scholl Foundation Chai Minded Memorial Scholarship Fund Rabbis Larry & Linda Seidman Gabriel Danovitch, MD & Nava Danovitch Joseph, z”l & Esther Lumer Adrian Shandling, MD & Debi Kornswiet Shandling Alvin, z”l & Barbara Dischler Mount Sinai Parks & Mortuaries Rabbi Arthur Stern, PhD Hershel Frankiel, PhD & Tamar Frankiel, PhD (for Chaplaincy Programing) Peggi Sturm Cantor Jonathan, PhD & Elvia Friedmann Joe Patterson & Cantor Lori Reisman Patterson Sun City Jewish Services Karen Gibson Sidney & Ruth Pilot Arnold Gilberg, MD, PhD Sidney & Phyllis Reisman FRIENDS AJRCA Clergy & Alumni Association Irwin Field Robert Margolis Robert & Jennifer Anker Robert Figlin, MD & Karen Reckamp, MD Mattel Children’s Foundation Baran Family Endowment Fund Harvey & Norma Greenberg Rabbi Janice Mehring Lon & Heidi Bender Steven & Susan Gryczman George Pao Jeff Berg & Dennie Luria Rabbi Avi Havivi, MD & Mehron & Angelle Ravai Rabbi Lisa Bock Chaplain Deborah Schmidt, JD Rabbi Rochelle Robins Rabbi Mark Borovitz & Harriet Rossetto Roger Ehrlich & Janis Feldman Horn Gilbert & Joanne Segel Rabbi Anne Brener Jewish Federation Council Dr. Joel & Rabbi Lori Schneide Shapiro Community Shul of Montecito and Santa Barbara Mary Wolf Leibman Jerry Sherman, MD & Nancy Sherman Robert & Cheryl Cook Rabbi Beth Lieberman Albert Sweet, z”l & Janie Sweet Rosette Delug Ronald, z”l & Shirley Loeb Rabbi Faith & Scott Tessler Together We Can Make a Difference

AJRCA trains compassionate, intelligent, spiritual Jewish leaders, fully prepared for 21st century Judaism.

Our alumni are uniquely qualified to serve in a post-denominational world. The spiritually-based training our students receive in classical Jewish texts, pastoral skills, and leadership across the denominational spectrum enable them to elevate life by blurring the old-world distinctions which divide us.

Our graduates: • Serve new congregations and revive older ones • Give comfort and support to the elderly and ill in a variety of settings • Provide education and spiritual counseling to prison populations • Engage in important social action projects that contribute to the welfare of all • Create new music and liturgy while inspiring love and appreciation for the traditional • Help the Jewish people to grow and thrive

Across the denominations, across the miles, AJRCA alumni influence the Jewish world and inspire the communities they touch.

According to the American Council on Education and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, TUITION ALONE NEVER COMPLETELY COVERS THE COST OF AN EDUCATION AT ANY LEVEL. Help the Academy for Jewish Religion California grow and thrive.

We cannot do it alone. We need your support.

Donate today to the Academy for Jewish Religion California. Together, we can continue the crucial work of educating rabbis, cantors, chaplains, and Jewish leaders who will serve Judaism in the 21st century.

Please visit ajrca.edu/donate CLICK HERE TO DONATE TODAY In Memoriam

“In the rising of the sun and in its going down, we remember them… So long as we live, they too shall live, for they are now a part of us as we remember them.” by Rabbi Sylvan Kamens and Rabbi Jack Riemer

We remember and hold in our hearts those members of the AJRCA family who have died. Their presence helped shape AJRCA into what it is today. Zichronam livrachah, may their memories be for a blessing.

Students Yaniv Dotan Jim Rodnunsky Abby Spivack

Alumni Rabbi Florence Dann Chaplain Robert (Bob) Lifson Chaplain Judith Sommerstein

Faculty Deborah Lynn “Debbie” Friedman Maurice Friedman, PhD Robert (Bob) Levy, PhD

Administration Ralph Mannheimer

Board Members Ronald M. Loeb Ralph Mannheimer Franklin R. Wurtzel

If you know of someone whose name we have missed, please notify us at: [email protected]. The artist, Revital Somekh-Goldreich, is an AJRCA Master of Jewish Studies 2019 graduate. Photographed by Larry Estrin

The artist sought to transcend the traditional symbols of the tribes based on the prophecies in Gen. 49 and Deut. 33. In pursuit of relevant and multi-dimensional meanings, she selected one or more biblical personalities from each of the tribes and — in thirteen visual commentaries — expressed relevant messages from them to our community. Many of the texts and much of the commentary thereon, which gave rise to the imagery, are studied and debated as a matter of course at AJRCA. Those classes, their professors, and students contributed to the understandings and readings expressed in the artwork and captured in the thesis that accompanies it. Transforming the Jewish World

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