Hi! I’m Rabbi Andy, a Rabbi and Senior Jewish Educator at Texas Hillel, serving Jewish students at the University of Texas at Austin and beyond. My work focuses on building meaningful relationships with over 300 students and community members, leading learning fellowships that connect Jewish tradition with modern life, and supporting students as they navigate the challenges of being Jewish on an American college campus.I came of age in a Jewish community where participation was declining. Yet, through transformative relationships with Rabbis, teachers, and mentors, I discovered how Jewish practice, learning, and community could enrich my life. This inspired me to dedicate my career to sustaining and serving the Jewish community as a Rabbi, helping others find meaning, connection, and belonging.At Texas Hillel, I oversee all educational programming, impacting hundreds of students annually through classes, fellowships, internships, community service, and more. Whether teaching the weekly Torah portion, exploring Jewish perspectives on Sex, Love, & Romance, or engaging in discussions about Israel, I believe in offering diverse engagement opportunities that meet students where they are. I also guide students in leading weekly prayer services and Shabbat rituals, fostering a vibrant and inclusive campus Jewish community.My expertise in Jewish education stems from years of experience. I served as a Unit Head for seven summers at Camp Ramah in New England, including three years directing the counselor-in-training program. I also spent five years as an educator at Ohr Kodesh Congregation, teaching students of all ages in both informal and formal settings. Across all these roles—from camps to congregations to campus—I’ve leveraged my connections with constituents and colleagues to increase engagement and participation wherever I’ve served.My greatest strength is harnessing relationships to creatively achieve goals. I thrive when surrounded by people with complementary strengths and passions, and I’m eager to learn from others to enhance my own skills. Whether mentoring a student or collaborating on innovative projects, I excel at bringing people together, identifying shared goals, and turning ideas into reality.When I’m not at Hillel, you’ll find me exploring Austin, cooking something delicious, cheering for the Pittsburgh Steelers, or diving into a great podcast or book—usually about something Jewish!