We are excited to announce that from July 1 through August 13, Temple Beth El will host Deborah Bell, a rising fourth-year Rabbinical student at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, for an enriching six-week summer fellowship. Deborah’s deep love for Torah, Jewish tradition, and the Jewish community drives her pursuit of the rabbinate, aiming to build and support vibrant Jewish organizations and communities that reflect the life-affirming beauty and hope of Judaism.
Before entering HUC (Hebrew Union College), Deborah had a distinguished career in academia, focusing on cognitive and social psychology. Her research spanned individual and group behavior, organizational leadership, and corporate governance. She has also been actively involved in not-for-profit organizations, serving on boards and providing advisory services. Deborah’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University and an MBA from Simmons College, where she focused on women and leadership.
During her rabbinical training, Deborah has embraced multiple roles that demonstrate her commitment and versatility. While studying in Israel, she was a member of Vaad Tzedakah, organizing benefits for the Jewish African Community Center and HIAS. She also collaborated with the Israel Religious Action Center (IRAC) to develop outreach and educational materials. As a Teaching Fellow, she has designed and delivered curricula for students ranging from kindergarten through adult education, and as the Rabbinic Intern for the CCAR (Central Conference of American Rabbis) Press, she authored several study guides and weekly Torah studies.
During her summer internship at Temple Beth El, Deborah will engage in a variety of learning opportunities. She will shadow our clergy, lead Torah study, co-plan and lead worship services, deliver sermons, and assist our pastoral team.
We invite all community members to warmly welcome Student Rabbi Deborah Bell when she arrives in late June. If you are interested in hosting Deborah for dinner or engaging with her during her residency, please contact Kym Kaplan, Administrative Assistant of Lifelong Learning. We are enthusiastic about the mutual growth and learning that Deborah’s presence will undoubtedly bring to our community this summer.
