Learn about Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D. on her RRC biography page.
Watch Waxman’s inaugural address
Hear About Rabbi Waxman’s Vision
Waxman shared her most important goals for the Reconstructionist movement along with some inspiring personal observations in this October 23, 2013, conference call.
RRC Board Chair David Roberts opened the October 23 conversation by noting Waxman’s passionate commitment to the Reconstructionist movement: She believes that in these times, as people choose among vast spiritual, religious and cultural resources, the Reconstructionist path toward meaning and connection can appeal to many, he said. Along with broad vision, he pointed out, Waxman brings expertise in planning and implementation. She played a central role in creating RRC’s first-ever strategic plan and, with a team of movement leaders, will soon move forward RRC’s first such plan as a combined organization.
Hear Rabbi Waxman’s Acceptance Remarks
On October 7, 2013, Board Chair David Roberts gathered the RRC community to announce the selection of Rabbi Deborah Waxman, Ph.D., as president elect of RRC and associated Jewish Reconstructionist Communities. After a raucous standing ovation, Waxman gave an impromptu response, which was captured on an iPad by David Kuney, a member of the board.
Read the press release about Waxman’s inauguration:
Read the press release announcing Waxman’s appointment to the general public.
Inauguration press coverage:
Jewish Exponent October 27, 2014
“Waxman Inaugurated as Head of Reconstructionist Rabbinical College”
6ABC Action News TV October 26, 2014
“Jewish Reconstructionist Movement gets first female (rabbinical) president”
Philadelphia Inquirer October 23, 2014
“Woman makes history at college and in Judaism”
Philadelphia Gay News October 16, 2014
“In history-making move, rabbinical college gets out female prez”
Waxman selection press coverage:
Jewish Exponent October 15, 2013
“Change of Top Leadership at Recon Movement”
The Jewish Daily Forward October 9, 2013
“Trailblazing Reconstructionist Deborah Waxman Relishes Challenges of Judaism”
Jewish Ledger Connecticut Edition, October 23, 2013
“West Hartford native appointed president of Reconstructionist seminary and congregational union”
JTA (the Jewish Telegraphic Agency) and the Israeli newspaper Haaretz also featured the Forward story prominently.
