Speakers
Chazan Bernard Beer
Cantor Bernard Beer, the director of the Belz School of Jewish Music of the RIETS, YU (since 1985), has served as the executive vice president of the Cantorial Council of America since 1974. Along with his impressive cantorial work, he earned a B.A. from Brooklyn College, a Cantorial Diploma from the Belz School, and studied music education at Columbia University, and voice, piano and theory at Julliard School of Music. He has lectured on Jewish Music throughout the United States and Canada since 1980.
Cantor Bernard Beer, the director of the Belz School of Jewish Music of the RIETS, YU (since 1985), has served as the executive vice president of the Cantorial Council of America since 1974. Along with his impressive cantorial work, he earned a B.A. from Brooklyn College, a Cantorial Diploma from the Belz School, and studied music education at Columbia University, and voice, piano and theory at Julliard School of Music. He has lectured on Jewish Music throughout the United States and Canada since 1980.
Howie Beigelman
Howie Beigelman has served as the OU’s deputy director of public policy since 2005. He is responsible for the OU’s advocacy before state and local governments, outreach to elected officials and candidates, voter education, media relations, as well as partnering in coalitions with other faith groups, including the joint OU-RCA dialogue with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. He previously worked for Governor Pataki’s administration as part of his communications staff. A graduate of YU, he also has a J.D. from Georgetown University. Howie was named to the influential JTA Twitter 100 list of most influential Jewish tweeters for 2010.
Howie Beigelman has served as the OU’s deputy director of public policy since 2005. He is responsible for the OU’s advocacy before state and local governments, outreach to elected officials and candidates, voter education, media relations, as well as partnering in coalitions with other faith groups, including the joint OU-RCA dialogue with the US Conference of Catholic Bishops. He previously worked for Governor Pataki’s administration as part of his communications staff. A graduate of YU, he also has a J.D. from Georgetown University. Howie was named to the influential JTA Twitter 100 list of most influential Jewish tweeters for 2010.
Rabbi Hershel Billet
Rabbi Hershel Billet has been rav of the Young Israel of Woodmere in New York, for 21 years. He earned semicha from YU and a master’s degree in Jewish History from Bernard Revel Graduate School. A president of the RCA, and a member of the OU’s board of directors and Israel Commission, he is a popular lecturer for the Genesis Foundation and has published numerous articles in Jewish journals. A leading advocate for a safe and secure Israel, he has raised significant funds for its defense.
Rabbi Hershel Billet has been rav of the Young Israel of Woodmere in New York, for 21 years. He earned semicha from YU and a master’s degree in Jewish History from Bernard Revel Graduate School. A president of the RCA, and a member of the OU’s board of directors and Israel Commission, he is a popular lecturer for the Genesis Foundation and has published numerous articles in Jewish journals. A leading advocate for a safe and secure Israel, he has raised significant funds for its defense.
Harvey Blitz
Harvey Blitz is past president of the OU, as well as former senior vice-president and treasurer. He is currently senior vice-president at AXA Financial, Inc., a large financial services company in Manhattan. Born in Detroit, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University, a law degree from the University of Chicago, and a master’s degree from NYU. He has been a member of the Jewish Agency’s Board of Governors since September of 2001.
Harvey Blitz is past president of the OU, as well as former senior vice-president and treasurer. He is currently senior vice-president at AXA Financial, Inc., a large financial services company in Manhattan. Born in Detroit, he holds a bachelor’s degree from Wayne State University, a law degree from the University of Chicago, and a master’s degree from NYU. He has been a member of the Jewish Agency’s Board of Governors since September of 2001.
Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald
Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald is founder and director of the National Jewish Outreach Program. Over two decades, NJOP has reached more than a million North American Jews in all 50 American states and nine Canadian provinces; NJOP programs have been introduced in 39 countries worldwide. He was the director of education at Lincoln Square Synagogue in Manhattan for 15 years, during which he launched LSS’s outreach program, and where he has led the now renowned "Beginners Service" since 1975. He was founding president of the Association for Jewish Outreach Professionals (AJOP) and lectures across the country, overseas, as well as leading experiential programs in cities throughout the world. Ordained at Yeshiva University, he was a student of Rabbi Dr. J. B. Soloveitchik.
Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald is founder and director of the National Jewish Outreach Program. Over two decades, NJOP has reached more than a million North American Jews in all 50 American states and nine Canadian provinces; NJOP programs have been introduced in 39 countries worldwide. He was the director of education at Lincoln Square Synagogue in Manhattan for 15 years, during which he launched LSS’s outreach program, and where he has led the now renowned "Beginners Service" since 1975. He was founding president of the Association for Jewish Outreach Professionals (AJOP) and lectures across the country, overseas, as well as leading experiential programs in cities throughout the world. Ordained at Yeshiva University, he was a student of Rabbi Dr. J. B. Soloveitchik.
Frank Buchweitz
Frank Buchweitz is the OU’s National Director of Community Services and Special Projects. He has been at the forefront of the Jewish communal field as an educator, administrator, consultant, and facilitator, initiating innovative educational programs in member synagogues throughout the country, which include Positive Jewish Parenting, Positive Jewish Marriage, Positive Jewish Dating, health related programs, such as Body Image and Eating Disorders, Professional Development Workshops, Emerging Communities Conference, among others.
Frank Buchweitz is the OU’s National Director of Community Services and Special Projects. He has been at the forefront of the Jewish communal field as an educator, administrator, consultant, and facilitator, initiating innovative educational programs in member synagogues throughout the country, which include Positive Jewish Parenting, Positive Jewish Marriage, Positive Jewish Dating, health related programs, such as Body Image and Eating Disorders, Professional Development Workshops, Emerging Communities Conference, among others.
Rabbi Steven Burg
Rabbi Steven Burg is the OU’s managing director and international director of NCSY. His career with NCSY has spanned 20 years, bringing passionate Judaism to the lives of thousands of Jewish teenagers across the globe. He is also the founder of the Jewish Student Union (JSU), a network of 250 public high school clubs that reaches more than 15,000 unaffiliated Jewish teenagers.
Rabbi Steven Burg is the OU’s managing director and international director of NCSY. His career with NCSY has spanned 20 years, bringing passionate Judaism to the lives of thousands of Jewish teenagers across the globe. He is also the founder of the Jewish Student Union (JSU), a network of 250 public high school clubs that reaches more than 15,000 unaffiliated Jewish teenagers.
Margy-Ruth Davis
Margy-Ruth Davis is Executive Vice President of Perry Davis Associates, an international consulting firm that fosters the growth and development of institutions and communities. She previously served as executive director of the Institute for Jewish Experience and as executive director of the Greater New York Conference on Soviet Jewry. In addition, she was also development director at the Elaine Kaufman Cultural Center, where she established the development department, created an ongoing program of foundation support and corporate membership, and oversaw all aspects of board and donor relations.
Margy-Ruth Davis is Executive Vice President of Perry Davis Associates, an international consulting firm that fosters the growth and development of institutions and communities. She previously served as executive director of the Institute for Jewish Experience and as executive director of the Greater New York Conference on Soviet Jewry. In addition, she was also development director at the Elaine Kaufman Cultural Center, where she established the development department, created an ongoing program of foundation support and corporate membership, and oversaw all aspects of board and donor relations.
Nathan J. Diament
Nathan J. Diament is the director of the OU’s Institute for Public Affairs, developing and coordinating public policy research and initiatives on behalf of the Jewish community. An honors graduate of YU and the Harvard Law School, prior to joining the IPA in 1996, he practiced at the firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison in NY, and served as a law clerk to Judge I. Leo Glasser of the United States District Court.
Nathan J. Diament is the director of the OU’s Institute for Public Affairs, developing and coordinating public policy research and initiatives on behalf of the Jewish community. An honors graduate of YU and the Harvard Law School, prior to joining the IPA in 1996, he practiced at the firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison in NY, and served as a law clerk to Judge I. Leo Glasser of the United States District Court.
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn, Director , W.I.N.G.S
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn is a musmach of RIETS at YU. After serving as a rabbinic intern at the Lincoln Square Synagogue, he assumed the position of rav at the West Side Institutional Synagogue in Manhattan. He is the president of COJO (Coalition of Jewish Organizations) and the creator and director of WINGS – a synagogue consulting group for the OU. An accomplished musician, he has also written commentaries on the Pesach Haggadah and Megilat Esther.
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn is a musmach of RIETS at YU. After serving as a rabbinic intern at the Lincoln Square Synagogue, he assumed the position of rav at the West Side Institutional Synagogue in Manhattan. He is the president of COJO (Coalition of Jewish Organizations) and the creator and director of WINGS – a synagogue consulting group for the OU. An accomplished musician, he has also written commentaries on the Pesach Haggadah and Megilat Esther.
Rabbi Moshe Elefant
Rabbi Moshe Elefant is the COO of the OU’s Kashrut Department, managing the day-to-day operations of OU Kosher. Rabbi Elefant teaches the popular daily Daf Yomi class on the OU’s website that is followed by thousands worldwide. He is the author of numerous articles and two books on Jewish law and is a sought-after lecturer on Jewish legal topics and the kosher industry. Rabbi Elefant received his rabbinic ordination at Mirrer Yeshiva in Brooklyn, NY, and his bachelor’s degree at Touro College in NY.
Rabbi Moshe Elefant is the COO of the OU’s Kashrut Department, managing the day-to-day operations of OU Kosher. Rabbi Elefant teaches the popular daily Daf Yomi class on the OU’s website that is followed by thousands worldwide. He is the author of numerous articles and two books on Jewish law and is a sought-after lecturer on Jewish legal topics and the kosher industry. Rabbi Elefant received his rabbinic ordination at Mirrer Yeshiva in Brooklyn, NY, and his bachelor’s degree at Touro College in NY.
Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman
Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman is the rav of Congregation Etz Chaim of Teaneck, N.J., instructor of Talmud and Jewish Studies at the Stone Beit Midrash program of YU, director of rabbinic research at YU's Center for the Jewish Future, and serves on the Va'ad HaHalakhah of the RCA. An alumnus of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh, he received semicha from RIETS, YU and is the author of The Right and the Good: Halakhah and Human Relations, as well as three volumes of Talmudic essays entitled Binah BaSefarim.
Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman is the rav of Congregation Etz Chaim of Teaneck, N.J., instructor of Talmud and Jewish Studies at the Stone Beit Midrash program of YU, director of rabbinic research at YU's Center for the Jewish Future, and serves on the Va'ad HaHalakhah of the RCA. An alumnus of Yeshivat Kerem B'Yavneh, he received semicha from RIETS, YU and is the author of The Right and the Good: Halakhah and Human Relations, as well as three volumes of Talmudic essays entitled Binah BaSefarim.
Rabbi Dovid Fohrman
Rabbi Dovid Fohrman is resident scholar at the Hoffberger Foundation for Torah Studies and teaches Biblical themes as adjunct faculty at Johns Hopkins university and at YU’s Gruss Kollel. He also delivers special presentations on Tanach at High Schools throughout the country for Project Chazon. He was senior editor of the Schottenstein Edition of the Talmud and wrote The Beast that Crouches at the Door: Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel and Beyond.
Rabbi Dovid Fohrman is resident scholar at the Hoffberger Foundation for Torah Studies and teaches Biblical themes as adjunct faculty at Johns Hopkins university and at YU’s Gruss Kollel. He also delivers special presentations on Tanach at High Schools throughout the country for Project Chazon. He was senior editor of the Schottenstein Edition of the Talmud and wrote The Beast that Crouches at the Door: Adam and Eve, Cain and Abel and Beyond.
Rabbi E.B. (Bunny) Freedman
Rabbi E.B. (Bunny) Freedman is founder and executive director of the 19 year-old Jewish Hospice & Chaplaincy Network based in the metro Detroit area. He previously served as executive vice president of Yeshiva Beth Yehudah for 14 years. Rabbi Freedman is an active fundraiser and advisor for numerous orthodox and general Jewish not for profit agencies in the Detroit area.
Rabbi E.B. (Bunny) Freedman is founder and executive director of the 19 year-old Jewish Hospice & Chaplaincy Network based in the metro Detroit area. He previously served as executive vice president of Yeshiva Beth Yehudah for 14 years. Rabbi Freedman is an active fundraiser and advisor for numerous orthodox and general Jewish not for profit agencies in the Detroit area.
Rabbi Menachem Genack
Rabbi Menachem Genack has served as the rabbinic administrator of the OU’s kashrut division since 1980. He is rav of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Englewood, N.J., and gives a Yoreh Deah shiur for ordination students at YU, where he received semicha. The author of three halachic sefarim, he is co-editor of the Torah journal Mesorah, published over 180 articles, a member of Tradition’s editorial board and professor of Talmud at Touro College. He was founding chairman of NORPAC, a pro-Israel political action committee and serves on the executive committee of AIPAC.
Rabbi Menachem Genack has served as the rabbinic administrator of the OU’s kashrut division since 1980. He is rav of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Englewood, N.J., and gives a Yoreh Deah shiur for ordination students at YU, where he received semicha. The author of three halachic sefarim, he is co-editor of the Torah journal Mesorah, published over 180 articles, a member of Tradition’s editorial board and professor of Talmud at Touro College. He was founding chairman of NORPAC, a pro-Israel political action committee and serves on the executive committee of AIPAC.
Chazan Sherwood Goffin
Chazan Sherwood Goffin has been the chazan of Lincoln Square Synagogue in Manhattan since its founding in 1965. As one of America's foremost contemporary Jewish music artists, he performed at concerts throughout the USA and Canada, producing six successful record albums. In 1995 he voluntarily "retired" from the stage to enter the academic world as Coordinator of Outreach of the Belz School of Jewish Music at Yeshiva University, where he has been teaching college-level classes in Jewish Liturgy and Folk Music since 1987. Cantor Goffin is a recognized expert who has written extensively about Nusach Hatefillah, as well as on the utilization of congregational melodies for tefilla, and lectures on the subject all over the USA.
Chazan Sherwood Goffin has been the chazan of Lincoln Square Synagogue in Manhattan since its founding in 1965. As one of America's foremost contemporary Jewish music artists, he performed at concerts throughout the USA and Canada, producing six successful record albums. In 1995 he voluntarily "retired" from the stage to enter the academic world as Coordinator of Outreach of the Belz School of Jewish Music at Yeshiva University, where he has been teaching college-level classes in Jewish Liturgy and Folk Music since 1987. Cantor Goffin is a recognized expert who has written extensively about Nusach Hatefillah, as well as on the utilization of congregational melodies for tefilla, and lectures on the subject all over the USA.
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is the senior rabbi of Boca Raton Synagogue. He is the vice president of the RCA, the co-chair of the ORB Va’ad Ha’Kashrus, a member of the RCA South Florida Regional Beis Din for Conversion, and serves on the board of directors of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Hillel Day School, and Torah Academy of Boca Raton and is a member of the AIPAC National Council. He graduated YU with a B.A. in psychology and received semicha from RIETS.
Rabbi Efrem Goldberg is the senior rabbi of Boca Raton Synagogue. He is the vice president of the RCA, the co-chair of the ORB Va’ad Ha’Kashrus, a member of the RCA South Florida Regional Beis Din for Conversion, and serves on the board of directors of the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County, Hillel Day School, and Torah Academy of Boca Raton and is a member of the AIPAC National Council. He graduated YU with a B.A. in psychology and received semicha from RIETS.
Councilman David G. Greenfield
David G. Greenfield was elected to the New York City Council in the 44th Council District in Brooklyn, New York on March 23, 2010. He is the volunteer director and counsel of TEACH NYS, an umbrella group that advocates on behalf of the parents of the 500,000 Catholic, Jewish and Independent school children in New York State. An expert in education policy and a mayoral appointee to the New York Non-Public School Standing Committee, he was the liaison between New York government and the non-public school community, and executive vice president of the Sephardic Community Federation. Former chief of staff to NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind, he also practiced corporate law and is a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, DC and Touro College in New York City where he graduated summa cum laude and was valedictorian.
David G. Greenfield was elected to the New York City Council in the 44th Council District in Brooklyn, New York on March 23, 2010. He is the volunteer director and counsel of TEACH NYS, an umbrella group that advocates on behalf of the parents of the 500,000 Catholic, Jewish and Independent school children in New York State. An expert in education policy and a mayoral appointee to the New York Non-Public School Standing Committee, he was the liaison between New York government and the non-public school community, and executive vice president of the Sephardic Community Federation. Former chief of staff to NYS Assemblyman Dov Hikind, he also practiced corporate law and is a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center in Washington, DC and Touro College in New York City where he graduated summa cum laude and was valedictorian.
Rabbi Ilan Haber
Rabbi Ilan Haber is the national director of the OU’s Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC). He began his career with JLIC as an educator, along with his wife, at Yale University. Previously he served as National Hillel's director of accreditation, as a senior consultant in its department of Campus Strategic Services, and a campus rabbi at the George Washington University. Ilan holds a BA in English literature and semicha from YU.
Rabbi Ilan Haber is the national director of the OU’s Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC). He began his career with JLIC as an educator, along with his wife, at Yale University. Previously he served as National Hillel's director of accreditation, as a senior consultant in its department of Campus Strategic Services, and a campus rabbi at the George Washington University. Ilan holds a BA in English literature and semicha from YU.
Dr. Ellen Schor Haimoff
Dr. Ellen Schor Haimoff is a clinical psychologist who has specialized in eating disorders and addictions for 30 years. Founder and former co-director of the Associates for Bulimia and Related Disorders, she runs intensive bulimia and anorexia workshops, she is quoted in articles and books on the subject and has lectured at several institutes of higher education. She is currently launching a wellness center in Manhattan called INSIGHT, N.Y.
Dr. Ellen Schor Haimoff is a clinical psychologist who has specialized in eating disorders and addictions for 30 years. Founder and former co-director of the Associates for Bulimia and Related Disorders, she runs intensive bulimia and anorexia workshops, she is quoted in articles and books on the subject and has lectured at several institutes of higher education. She is currently launching a wellness center in Manhattan called INSIGHT, N.Y.
Charles Harary
Charles Harary, a senior lecturer for the OU and Aish HaTorah, speaks internationally for organizations, schools, universities and institutions. A graduate of Columbia Law School, Mr. Harary is the first vice president of residential operations and legal counsel of RXR Realty, a multi-billion dollar real estate company based in New York. He sits on the OU‘s board of directors and executive board and is the founding chairman of the Young Leadership Cabinet.
Charles Harary, a senior lecturer for the OU and Aish HaTorah, speaks internationally for organizations, schools, universities and institutions. A graduate of Columbia Law School, Mr. Harary is the first vice president of residential operations and legal counsel of RXR Realty, a multi-billion dollar real estate company based in New York. He sits on the OU‘s board of directors and executive board and is the founding chairman of the Young Leadership Cabinet.
Dr. Linda Klonsky
Dr. Linda Klonsky is an organization development and leadership consultant, conducting seminars and workshops on board governance, strategic planning, leadership development, and change management. She was director of Israel Quest, a community agency of the Jewish Federation of the Greater Washington, as well as a planning and allocation associate for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore. She received a B.A. from YU/Stern College, a master’s in education from Towson University, and a Ph.D. in human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate University.
Dr. Linda Klonsky is an organization development and leadership consultant, conducting seminars and workshops on board governance, strategic planning, leadership development, and change management. She was director of Israel Quest, a community agency of the Jewish Federation of the Greater Washington, as well as a planning and allocation associate for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore. She received a B.A. from YU/Stern College, a master’s in education from Towson University, and a Ph.D. in human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate University.
Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman
Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman is national director of the OU’s Yachad/ the National Jewish Council for Disabilities (NJCD), dean of IVDU Schools, director of the NJ Association of Jewish Day Schools and a consultant to schools and agencies working with individuals with special needs. Holding masters’ degrees in school psychology and education from St. Johns University and NYU, he received his undergraduate and rabbinical training from YU, where he completed his doctorate as well. His areas of expertise include individual and group counseling, social skills training, facilitating Inclusion and teacher training.
Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman is national director of the OU’s Yachad/ the National Jewish Council for Disabilities (NJCD), dean of IVDU Schools, director of the NJ Association of Jewish Day Schools and a consultant to schools and agencies working with individuals with special needs. Holding masters’ degrees in school psychology and education from St. Johns University and NYU, he received his undergraduate and rabbinical training from YU, where he completed his doctorate as well. His areas of expertise include individual and group counseling, social skills training, facilitating Inclusion and teacher training.
Maury Litwack
Maury Litwack is deputy director of federal affairs for the OU/IPA. A recognized advocacy expert, he has worked with elected officials and municipalities on major aspects of their federal and state agendas during the last seven congressional sessions. He was on the staff of two Congressmen during the 108th and 109th Congress, and served on the government affairs staff of Miami-Dade County, the 6th largest county in the country. Author of The Capitol Plan, a comprehensive Washington advocacy strategy, he was also published in Business Insider, Fox News, The Hill among others and his commentary has been featured in Forbes and Politico.
Maury Litwack is deputy director of federal affairs for the OU/IPA. A recognized advocacy expert, he has worked with elected officials and municipalities on major aspects of their federal and state agendas during the last seven congressional sessions. He was on the staff of two Congressmen during the 108th and 109th Congress, and served on the government affairs staff of Miami-Dade County, the 6th largest county in the country. Author of The Capitol Plan, a comprehensive Washington advocacy strategy, he was also published in Business Insider, Fox News, The Hill among others and his commentary has been featured in Forbes and Politico.
David Makovsky
David Makovsky is the Ziegler distinguished fellow and director of The Washington Institute's Project on the Middle East Peace Process. An adjunct lecturer in Middle Eastern studies at Johns Hopkins University's Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies, he coauthored Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East and wrote Making Peace with the PLO: The Rabin Government's Road to the Oslo Accord. He was executive editor of the Jerusalem Post, diplomatic correspondent for Israel's leading daily, Haaretz, and former contributing editor to U.S. News and World Report.
David Makovsky is the Ziegler distinguished fellow and director of The Washington Institute's Project on the Middle East Peace Process. An adjunct lecturer in Middle Eastern studies at Johns Hopkins University's Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies, he coauthored Myths, Illusions, and Peace: Finding a New Direction for America in the Middle East and wrote Making Peace with the PLO: The Rabin Government's Road to the Oslo Accord. He was executive editor of the Jerusalem Post, diplomatic correspondent for Israel's leading daily, Haaretz, and former contributing editor to U.S. News and World Report.
Rachel Pill
Rachel Pill, L.C.S.W., maintains a private practice in Lawrence, NY. She is the co-founder and co-director of The Long Island Guidance and Wellness Center, a mental health agency providing groups and workshops on topics such as parenting and marriage. She was an adjunct professor at Touro College School of Social Work, and RIETS at YU.
Rachel Pill, L.C.S.W., maintains a private practice in Lawrence, NY. She is the co-founder and co-director of The Long Island Guidance and Wellness Center, a mental health agency providing groups and workshops on topics such as parenting and marriage. She was an adjunct professor at Touro College School of Social Work, and RIETS at YU.
William E. Rapfogel
William E. Rapfogel has been the executive director and CEO of the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty for close to three decades. A graduate of Brooklyn College and the Columbia University Graduate Institute for Non-Profit Management, he served as executive director of the Institute for Public Affairs of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America. He was also assistant New York City comptroller under Harrison J. Goldin and for three years in the administration of Mayor Edward I. Koch.
William E. Rapfogel has been the executive director and CEO of the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty for close to three decades. A graduate of Brooklyn College and the Columbia University Graduate Institute for Non-Profit Management, he served as executive director of the Institute for Public Affairs of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America. He was also assistant New York City comptroller under Harrison J. Goldin and for three years in the administration of Mayor Edward I. Koch.
Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman
Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman is an associate professor of emergency medicine and associate professor in the Division of Education and Bioethics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of YU, where he teaches Jewish medical ethics. He received semicha from RIETS at YU. He writes and lectures internationally on Jewish medical ethics and has been a member of the advisory boards of the Institute for Genetics and Public Policy, the New York Organ Donor Network, and the RCA.
Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman is an associate professor of emergency medicine and associate professor in the Division of Education and Bioethics at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of YU, where he teaches Jewish medical ethics. He received semicha from RIETS at YU. He writes and lectures internationally on Jewish medical ethics and has been a member of the advisory boards of the Institute for Genetics and Public Policy, the New York Organ Donor Network, and the RCA.
Rabbi Shaul Robinson
Rabbi Shaul Robinson is senior rabbi at Lincoln Square Synagogue in Manhattan. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, he attended Yeshivat HaMivtar and the Joseph Straus Rabbinic Seminary in Efrat, Israel. He attained semicha from the Joseph Straus Rabbinical Seminary and was appointed the first full-time rabbi for Jewish Students at Cambridge University, England. He earned a B.A. degree in economics and political science at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland and awarded an M.B.A. from the University of Nottingham, England, focusing on the management of not-for-profit institutions.
Rabbi Shaul Robinson is senior rabbi at Lincoln Square Synagogue in Manhattan. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, he attended Yeshivat HaMivtar and the Joseph Straus Rabbinic Seminary in Efrat, Israel. He attained semicha from the Joseph Straus Rabbinical Seminary and was appointed the first full-time rabbi for Jewish Students at Cambridge University, England. He earned a B.A. degree in economics and political science at the University of Strathclyde, Scotland and awarded an M.B.A. from the University of Nottingham, England, focusing on the management of not-for-profit institutions.
Rabbi Joshua Ross
Rabbi Joshua Ross is the associate director of the OU’s Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus(JLIC). He previously worked at Cornell and Princeton University as the JLIC rabbi. He learned at Yeshivat Hamivtar, where he received semicha, and has an advanced double BA in history and philosophy from Dalhousie University. He is currently a shiur rabbi for Rabbi Chaim Brovender’s web yeshiva.
Rabbi Joshua Ross is the associate director of the OU’s Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus(JLIC). He previously worked at Cornell and Princeton University as the JLIC rabbi. He learned at Yeshivat Hamivtar, where he received semicha, and has an advanced double BA in history and philosophy from Dalhousie University. He is currently a shiur rabbi for Rabbi Chaim Brovender’s web yeshiva.
Rabbi Herschel Schachter
Rabbi Herschel Schachter is an eminent Talmudic scholar, posek, and rosh yeshiva of RIETS at YU for over 40 years. At 22, he was appointed assistant to the renowned Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik zt"l and has served as rosh kollel in RIETS Marcos and Adina Katz Kollel since 1971. He is one of the rabbinic decisors on kashrut for the OU and has written over 100 scholarly articles in Hebrew and English, as well as six books of essays.
Rabbi Herschel Schachter is an eminent Talmudic scholar, posek, and rosh yeshiva of RIETS at YU for over 40 years. At 22, he was appointed assistant to the renowned Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik zt"l and has served as rosh kollel in RIETS Marcos and Adina Katz Kollel since 1971. He is one of the rabbinic decisors on kashrut for the OU and has written over 100 scholarly articles in Hebrew and English, as well as six books of essays.
Rabbi Dr. Jacob J. Schacter
Rabbi Dr. Jacob J. Schacter, a professor of Jewish history and Jewish thought, is a senior scholar at the Center for the Jewish Future at YU. He was dean of the Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik Institute in Boston, as well as longtime rav of congregations in Massachusetts and Manhattan. A member of the Board of Governors of the OU, he received semicha from Mesivta Torah Vodaath in Brooklyn, and holds a Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages from Harvard University. He is also a noted and prolific author and essayist.
Rabbi Dr. Jacob J. Schacter, a professor of Jewish history and Jewish thought, is a senior scholar at the Center for the Jewish Future at YU. He was dean of the Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik Institute in Boston, as well as longtime rav of congregations in Massachusetts and Manhattan. A member of the Board of Governors of the OU, he received semicha from Mesivta Torah Vodaath in Brooklyn, and holds a Ph.D. in Near Eastern Languages from Harvard University. He is also a noted and prolific author and essayist.
Sylvan Schaffer
Sylvan Schaffer, J.D., Ph.D., a practicing psychologist specializing in family and marital psychotherapy is a member of the faculty in clinical psychology at Hofstra Medical School and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is also an attorney in family and employment law with a concentration on conflict resolution with the law firm Jackson Lewis.
Sylvan Schaffer, J.D., Ph.D., a practicing psychologist specializing in family and marital psychotherapy is a member of the faculty in clinical psychology at Hofstra Medical School and Albert Einstein College of Medicine. He is also an attorney in family and employment law with a concentration on conflict resolution with the law firm Jackson Lewis.
Marcy Schaffer
Marcy Schaffer, Ph.D. maintains a private practice in clinical psychology, specializing in individual and family therapy, including premarital and marital counseling. Marcy is director of a multilingual evaluation agency called Quality Evaluation and Consulting Services, and is the founder and executive director of Positive Beginnings, an early childhood program for special needs children in Queens, New York.
Marcy Schaffer, Ph.D. maintains a private practice in clinical psychology, specializing in individual and family therapy, including premarital and marital counseling. Marcy is director of a multilingual evaluation agency called Quality Evaluation and Consulting Services, and is the founder and executive director of Positive Beginnings, an early childhood program for special needs children in Queens, New York.
Nachum Segal
Nachum Segal has been the host of the hugely popular JM in the AM radio show broadcast in and around New York since September of 1983. A graduate of Mesivta Ohr Torah of Riverdale and Yeshiva University's Yeshiva College, he is a thoughtful and skilled interviewer who has hosted politicians, government ministers, and Broadway performers on his show. Thousands of Jewish organizations have benefited from an appearance by their professionals and lay leaders. In 1992, he launched a new evening program called The Nachum Segal Show.
Nachum Segal has been the host of the hugely popular JM in the AM radio show broadcast in and around New York since September of 1983. A graduate of Mesivta Ohr Torah of Riverdale and Yeshiva University's Yeshiva College, he is a thoughtful and skilled interviewer who has hosted politicians, government ministers, and Broadway performers on his show. Thousands of Jewish organizations have benefited from an appearance by their professionals and lay leaders. In 1992, he launched a new evening program called The Nachum Segal Show.
Jerry Silverman
Gerrald (Jerry) Silverman is president and CEO of The Jewish Federations of North America. As president of the Foundation for Jewish Camp, which introduced Jewish camping as a vehicle to enhance Jewish identity, he helped put Jewish camps on the communal map. He previously held a range of executive positions in the fashion industry.
Gerrald (Jerry) Silverman is president and CEO of The Jewish Federations of North America. As president of the Foundation for Jewish Camp, which introduced Jewish camping as a vehicle to enhance Jewish identity, he helped put Jewish camps on the communal map. He previously held a range of executive positions in the fashion industry.
Bret Stephens
Bret Stephens is foreign affairs columnist of The Wall Street Journal and deputy editor responsible for the editorial pages of The Wall Street Journal in Asia and Europe. He has reported stories from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank and is a regular panelist on The Journal Editorial Report, a weekly political talk show carried nationally by the Fox News channel. Former op-ed editor at Commentary magazine and editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, he has won numerous journalistic awards and has twice been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize.
Bret Stephens is foreign affairs columnist of The Wall Street Journal and deputy editor responsible for the editorial pages of The Wall Street Journal in Asia and Europe. He has reported stories from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Gaza and the West Bank and is a regular panelist on The Journal Editorial Report, a weekly political talk show carried nationally by the Fox News channel. Former op-ed editor at Commentary magazine and editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, he has won numerous journalistic awards and has twice been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize.
Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike, Dean, Lander College for Women/The Anna Ruth and Mark Hasten School, Touro
Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike has been the dean of Lander College for Women/the Anna Ruth and Mark Hasten School (an undergraduate division of Touro College) since 2005. A professor of psychology and human resources management, she received her BA from Harvard University in psychology and social relations and her Ph.D. in developmental psychology from NYU. A former global corporate consultant with Fortune 100 companies, she has advised business leaders in the U.S. and North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. She has written two books and numerous articles relating to the maturing work force, cross-cultural management, and work/life issues and is on the board of directors of the OU, JCRC and AJC.
Dr. Marian Stoltz-Loike has been the dean of Lander College for Women/the Anna Ruth and Mark Hasten School (an undergraduate division of Touro College) since 2005. A professor of psychology and human resources management, she received her BA from Harvard University in psychology and social relations and her Ph.D. in developmental psychology from NYU. A former global corporate consultant with Fortune 100 companies, she has advised business leaders in the U.S. and North America, Europe, Asia, and South America. She has written two books and numerous articles relating to the maturing work force, cross-cultural management, and work/life issues and is on the board of directors of the OU, JCRC and AJC.
Yael Weil
Yael Weil grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. She attended Michlala in Jerusalem and Stern College in New York, as well as earning a master's degree in special education at Bank Street College in Manhattan. She has taught in day schools, Hebrew schools and high schools in New York, New Jersey and Los Angeles. Also involved in adult education, she gives weekly shiurim and kallah classes.
Yael Weil grew up in Memphis, Tennessee. She attended Michlala in Jerusalem and Stern College in New York, as well as earning a master's degree in special education at Bank Street College in Manhattan. She has taught in day schools, Hebrew schools and high schools in New York, New Jersey and Los Angeles. Also involved in adult education, she gives weekly shiurim and kallah classes.
Rabbi Steven Weil
Rabbi Steven Weil, the CEO of the OU, completed his studies at Kerem B’Yavneh and YU, while attaining semicha from RIETS at YU and a Masters in Business Administration from NYU’s Stern School of Business. He began his career as a Jewish educator and went onto pulpit work in Detroit and Los Angeles. A noted lecturer, he delivered invocations for former President Bush and Governor Schwarzenegger among others.
Rabbi Steven Weil, the CEO of the OU, completed his studies at Kerem B’Yavneh and YU, while attaining semicha from RIETS at YU and a Masters in Business Administration from NYU’s Stern School of Business. He began his career as a Jewish educator and went onto pulpit work in Detroit and Los Angeles. A noted lecturer, he delivered invocations for former President Bush and Governor Schwarzenegger among others.
Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb
Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb is executive vice president, emeritus of the OU. Senior advisor to the lay and professional leadership of the OU, he also develops educational programming for its website, consults for its various publications and represents the OU at conferences and forums around the world. A teacher, writer, orator, and former rav of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Baltimore, MD, he received semicha from the Rabbi Jacob Joseph yeshiva in NY, his master’s degree in psychology from the New School for Social Research, and his Ph.D. from the University of Maryland.
Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb is executive vice president, emeritus of the OU. Senior advisor to the lay and professional leadership of the OU, he also develops educational programming for its website, consults for its various publications and represents the OU at conferences and forums around the world. A teacher, writer, orator, and former rav of Congregation Shomrei Emunah in Baltimore, MD, he received semicha from the Rabbi Jacob Joseph yeshiva in NY, his master’s degree in psychology from the New School for Social Research, and his Ph.D. from the University of Maryland.
Shira Weiss
Shira Weiss teaches Tanach, Jewish History, and Jewish Philosophy at The Frisch School in Paramus, New Jersey, and is an adjunct professor of Jewish philosophy at Stern College for Women, YU. She has a doctorate in education and administration from the Azrieli Graduate School, YU, and a master's degree in Jewish philosophy from Bernard Revel Graduate School, YU, where she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Jewish philosophy.
Shira Weiss teaches Tanach, Jewish History, and Jewish Philosophy at The Frisch School in Paramus, New Jersey, and is an adjunct professor of Jewish philosophy at Stern College for Women, YU. She has a doctorate in education and administration from the Azrieli Graduate School, YU, and a master's degree in Jewish philosophy from Bernard Revel Graduate School, YU, where she is pursuing a Ph.D. in Jewish philosophy.
Sessions
Daf Yomi
Rabbi Moshe Elefant
What is a Heter?
Rabbi Hershel Schachter
Is Tefillah a One Way Street or Does God Talk Back?
What the Yosef Story Has to Tell Us About Divine Communication
Rabbi Dovid Fohrman
The Hidden Cost of Free Speech on the Internet
Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman
Halacha Under the Microscope:
Worms in Fish and the Delicate Interplay between Halacha and Science Throughout the Ages
Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman
Personal Autonomy vs. Religious Authority:
The Gan Eden Narrative
Dr. Shira Weiss
How Perfect Must a Woman Be?
In Search of the Real Eishet Chayil
Yael Weil
The Conversion Controversy in Israel and its Effects in the Diaspora
Harvey Blitz with panelists Jerry Silverman and Rabbi Hershel Billet
Making Our Tefillot More Meaningful and More Personal
Rabbi Shaul Robinson
Dating and Mating: A Common Sense Approach for Singles, Parents and Educators
Rookie Billet
Sponsored by Community Services
Positive Jewish Parenting:
Insanity is Hereditary – You get it from your children: Coping Strategies for Parents
Drs. Sylvan and Marcy Schaffer
Sponsored by OU Kosher
Contemporary Issues in Kashrut:
Topics in the news, plus questions from the audience
Rabbi Menachem Genack and Rabbi Moshe Elefant
Sponsored by Educational and Day School Services and by Community Services
Food, Body Image and Eating Disorders
Frank Buchweitz, Dr. Sarah Roer and Dr. Ellen Haimoff
Sponsored by Yachad/National Jewish Council for Disabilities
Who Will Your Child Be?
Challenges and Opportunities Posed by the Child With Special Needs
Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman with a panel of Yachad parents
Sponsored by the Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC)
Challenges and Opportunities for Orthodox Students at Secular College Campuses
Rabbi Ilan Haber and Rabbi Joshua Ross
Sponsored by IPA
Advocacy and Your Interests -
A How-To Seminar
Nathan Diament, Howie Beigelman and Maury Litwack
Sponsored by Community Services
Positive Jewish Marriage:
The Keys to Unlocking and Maintaining a Happy Marriage
Rachel Pill
Around the World in 80 Ways:
Best Youth Programming From Across the Globe
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn
Best Theories and Practices for Synagogue Leadership
Dr. Linda Klonsky
Fundraising: Not Just Dues and Dinners
Rabbi Steven Weil and Rabbi E.B. Bunny Freedman
Short and Long Term Strategic Planning for Synagogues
Dr. Linda Klonsky
Gabbaim: Understanding the Halachot of Chiyuvim
Rabbi Hershel Schachter
On Fire: Sparking Immediate Shul Growth
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn
Enhancing the Spirituality of Tefillah through the Musical Mesorah
Chazan Bernard Beer and Chazan Sherwood Goffin
Sponsored by OU/IPA: US-Israel Relations
Chair: Nathan Diament
Panelists: BRET STEPHENS, Deputy editor, editorial page, The Wall Street Journal DAVID MAKOVSKY, Director, The Washington Institute's Project on the Middle East Peace Process.
How to Take Your Shul Board From Good to Great
President's Panel
Daf Yomi
Rabbi Moshe Elefant
What is a Heter?
Rabbi Hershel Schachter
Is Tefillah a One Way Street or Does God Talk Back?
What the Yosef Story Has to Tell Us About Divine Communication
Rabbi Dovid Fohrman
The Hidden Cost of Free Speech on the Internet
Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman
Halacha Under the Microscope:
Worms in Fish and the Delicate Interplay between Halacha and Science Throughout the Ages
Rabbi Dr. Edward Reichman
Personal Autonomy vs. Religious Authority:
The Gan Eden Narrative
Dr. Shira Weiss
How Perfect Must a Woman Be?
In Search of the Real Eishet Chayil
Yael Weil
The Conversion Controversy in Israel and its Effects in the Diaspora
Harvey Blitz with panelists Jerry Silverman and Rabbi Hershel Billet
Making Our Tefillot More Meaningful and More Personal
Rabbi Shaul Robinson
Dating and Mating: A Common Sense Approach for Singles, Parents and Educators
Rookie Billet
Sponsored by Community Services
Positive Jewish Parenting:
Insanity is Hereditary – You get it from your children: Coping Strategies for Parents
Drs. Sylvan and Marcy Schaffer
Sponsored by OU Kosher
Contemporary Issues in Kashrut:
Topics in the news, plus questions from the audience
Rabbi Menachem Genack and Rabbi Moshe Elefant
Sponsored by Educational and Day School Services and by Community Services
Food, Body Image and Eating Disorders
Frank Buchweitz, Dr. Sarah Roer and Dr. Ellen Haimoff
Sponsored by Yachad/National Jewish Council for Disabilities
Who Will Your Child Be?
Challenges and Opportunities Posed by the Child With Special Needs
Dr. Jeffrey Lichtman with a panel of Yachad parents
Sponsored by the Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC)
Challenges and Opportunities for Orthodox Students at Secular College Campuses
Rabbi Ilan Haber and Rabbi Joshua Ross
Sponsored by IPA
Advocacy and Your Interests -
A How-To Seminar
Nathan Diament, Howie Beigelman and Maury Litwack
Sponsored by Community Services
Positive Jewish Marriage:
The Keys to Unlocking and Maintaining a Happy Marriage
Rachel Pill
Around the World in 80 Ways:
Best Youth Programming From Across the Globe
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn
Best Theories and Practices for Synagogue Leadership
Dr. Linda Klonsky
Fundraising: Not Just Dues and Dinners
Rabbi Steven Weil and Rabbi E.B. Bunny Freedman
Short and Long Term Strategic Planning for Synagogues
Dr. Linda Klonsky
Gabbaim: Understanding the Halachot of Chiyuvim
Rabbi Hershel Schachter
On Fire: Sparking Immediate Shul Growth
Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn
Enhancing the Spirituality of Tefillah through the Musical Mesorah
Chazan Bernard Beer and Chazan Sherwood Goffin
Sponsored by OU/IPA: US-Israel Relations
Chair: Nathan Diament
Panelists: BRET STEPHENS, Deputy editor, editorial page, The Wall Street Journal DAVID MAKOVSKY, Director, The Washington Institute's Project on the Middle East Peace Process.
How to Take Your Shul Board From Good to Great
President's Panel
