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What led you to get involved with Women of Rodef Sholom?
Congregation Rodef Sholom was my childhood synagogue, my parents became members in 1971. As a child, I regularly attended services, religious and Hebrew school, and celebrated key milestones, such as my Bat Mitzvah, Confirmation and a youth trip to Israel. As an adult, I moved away and on occasion attended events at Rodef Sholom, returning for high holy holiday services with my family. I joined WRS from afar and attended programs with my mother and sister for many years. When I moved back to Marin County, I joined the WRS Board of Directors to be of service and to give back to my community, first as an appointed Member at Large, then as elected Co-VP of Programming/First Vice President. I am now serving my second term as WRS President. My membership with WRS has been a full-circle experience for me, and my return to Rodef Sholom has been a blessing, one of welcoming and belonging to a community.
What is your favorite memory from a Women of Rodef Sholom event?
I have so many favorite WRS memories, though if I have to choose one it would have to be at the WRS retreats at Westerbeke in Sonoma - services and singing in the Roundhouse. It was so special to spend time together in such a beautiful and sacred space. I have also enjoyed all of the recent memorable WRS programs that have virtually taken me to exhibits, concerts and presentations near and far!
In one word, what does Women of Rodef Sholom mean to you?
Belonging
What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?
They would be most surprised to learn that I have a competitive spirit for accomplishing physical pursuits while overcoming stereotypes about what it means to be an athlete and a fear of heights: hiking to the top of Half Dome in Yosemite (four times), hiking to the top of Yosemite Falls (annually for years), hiking both Mt. Whitney and Mt. Lasson, multiple cross country skiing trips to Glacier Point, running marathons (New York, Nike SF, & Athens, Greece), completing numerous half marathons and 5k races, and most proudly completing the Dipsea race (on ten occasions) and the Double Dipsea race (once). As I embark on a new decade in life, my pursuits have become less physical and more rooted in connections and community, though don't be surprised if you see me set a future challenge for myself that takes me to new heights step by step!
What is something that you do for fun?
I like creating art collages, Israeli folk dancing, singing, word puzzles, reading, watching plays and movies, connecting with my family, friends, and beloved dogs!
What book inspires you?
Anne Lamott’s Bird by Bird. This book is a gem and inspires me with its wisdom, sage advice, authenticity, and humor.
Who is your favorite Jewish woman and why?
Debbie Friedman is a favorite Jewish woman for me, for her music, artistry, legacy and for bringing such joy to religious songs and melodies at services. I recall the first time I heard her rendition of Mi Shebeirach (the prayer for healing). It was so prayerful and moving, then and now. In my mind, Debbie Friedman changed how songs were sung in synagogue, both for cantors and congregants, inspiring more accessibility, joy, and women's voices in sacred spaces. It was such a welcome shift for me, and it continues to be so powerful, meaningful, and joyful to sing her songs!
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