ALEPH:  The Alliance for Jewish Renewal announced today that SooJi Min-Maranda will step down from her position as Executive Director on December 31, 2025.  

“I have had the privilege of serving as Executive Director since January 2018,” said SooJi Min-Maranda.  “ALEPH today is in its strongest position ever. We have achieved solid financial footing, secured new foundation support, doubled staff resources, established ALEPH Ordination Program (AOP) Governors for our seminary, and will soon welcome a new AOP Dean.  

“ALEPH is a wonderful community, and my heart is filled with blessings from so many people who have supported, encouraged and collaborated with me here. After eight years, it is time for new leadership at ALEPH, and I have great confidence that we will continue to go from strength to strength and will thrive under fresh guidance.”

“SooJi’s leadership and focus have taken our organization to the next level,” said Hazzan Stephanie Weishaar, Chair of the ALEPH Board of Directors. “We deeply appreciate her unwavering commitment and steadfast dedication. Her insights and perspectives have been invaluable, and we are grateful for her many accomplishments and contributions. We wish SooJi well in her future professional endeavors. As we navigate this transition, our board remains committed to fostering transformative spiritual experiences and to creating deep connections and relationships that renew Judaism.”  

Ms. Min-Maranda will continue to fulfill her regular responsibilities through the end of this calendar year, except for the three-month period of a recently announced sabbatical, which was awarded by the non-profit, R&R The Rest of our Lives.  “During my sabbatical, we are fortunate to have Dr. Charles Silverstein, ALEPH’s outgoing AOP Dean, assume the role of Interim Executive Director,” said SooJi Min-Maranda.  “Dr. Silverstein brings extensive experience and a deep commitment to our mission.  He will help to provide continuity of leadership while I am away in August, September and October.  I look forward to the insights and renewed energy that this sabbatical opportunity will bring to our work and to supporting a smooth transition for ALEPH’s next chapter.”  

ALEPH will quickly begin its search for a new Executive Director to lead the organization.  We are committed to finding an exceptional leader who aligns with our values and vision for the future.  A job description will soon be posted to the ALEPH website.