Susan Cohen
Biography
Steve Lovi
Biography
Steve Lovi was raised in the Chicago area in a predominately Jewish neighborhood with several Deaf Jewish peers. Temple and JCC life were cornerstones during Steve’s youth. With family support, he received his Bar Mitzvah and Religious School confirmation. Steve also attended Congregation Bene Shalom for the Deaf. He was an active member of the RIT/NTID Hillel group and holds a bachelor’s degree in social work. Steve has worked in the non-profit management sector for 25+ years in addition to serving on several local, state, and national boards including eight years of past service with the National Association of the Deaf.
Naomi Brunnlehrman
Biography
Naomi Brunnlehrman co-founded the Jewish Deaf Resource Center (JDRC) in 1996 to build bridges between Deaf and hearing communities, ensuring access and inclusivity across the Jewish community. Known as a “Chazan of the Deaf,” she interprets Jewish liturgy directly from Hebrew to ASL, breaking barriers for Deaf individuals in spiritual practices. Naomi mentors interpreters and collaborates closely with the Deaf community to share her expertise. She also serves as Division Director for Education and Advocacy at Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, promoting education and empowerment. Naomi resides in Westchester, NY, with her husband, Steve, and is the proud mother of two adult sons.
Rabbi Rebecca L. Dubowe
Biography
Rabbi Rebecca L. Dubowe, the first female Deaf rabbi, is the spiritual leader at Moses Montefiore Congregation in Bloomington, IL. Ordained by Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, she has served synagogues across the U.S. Dubowe co-founded the McLean County Interfaith Alliance and is active in Not In Our Town, promoting inclusive communities. A celebrated author and speaker, she advocates for Deaf inclusion and teaches Introduction to Judaism in American Sign Language. Rabbi Dubowe’s passion for theology and community engagement has earned her several honorary doctorates. Dedicated to fostering accessibility, she bridges the gap between Jewish and Deaf communities through her visionary leadership.
Steve Weiner
Biography
Steve Weiner, a native of Lexington, MA, a father of three, is a dedicated educator and lifelong learner. After 25 years teaching at a public day school for the Deaf in Boston, where he also coached basketball, Steve now teaches Deaf and CODA 5th graders at PS 347 in Manhattan. He has been nominated for NYC Public Schools Teacher of the Year. Previously, he worked in banking, sales, and financial services. A collegiate rowing enthusiast, he still competes, including at the 2022 Head of the Charles. As an accomplished magician since 1981, Steve brings creativity and passion to his role as a board member of JDRC, fostering meaningful connections.
EJ Cohen
Biography
EJ Cohen is an ASL interpreter with over 40 years of experience, combining her love of Judaism and music with sign language. Known for interpreting at Debbie Friedman’s (z”l) events, she’s also taught Sunday school for 55+ years and guided Deaf children through their B’nai Mitzvah. EJ holds masters degrees in Jewish Education and Deaf Education and has led religious schools and music programs in Connecticut, New Hampshire and the United Kingdom. A certified interpreter, she’s active in the UK’s Jewish Deaf Association and conversant in BSL. A passionate JDRC supporter, EJ resides in Concord, NH, with her cat, Butch CATsidy.
Rachel Bass
Biography
Rachel Bass, born in Staten Island, NY, is a passionate advocate for Deaf and disability rights. Raised in a Reform Jewish household, she champions values like Tikkun Olam and Derekh Eretz. Rachel’s extensive experience includes advocating for DeafBlind and intersectional communities, serving on national boards, and delivering presentations at universities and the White House. Her work in policy and outreach led her to Capitol Hill, addressing systemic disability issues. A Gallaudet University alumna with degrees in Psychology and Social Work, Rachel strives to create a more inclusive and accessible world.