Rabbinical Student Dedicated to the Flourishing of Community

As a rabbi in training and a freelance facilitator both of team building retreats and community meditation sessions, Michelle Goldhaber, MDiv '05, is committed to the flourishing of diverse communities—a passion she fostered during her time at HDS.

Michelle Goldhaber, MDiv '05, Rabbinical Student, Hebrew College Rabbinical School (Newton, MA); Intern, Brown University (Providence, RI); Freelance Facilitator

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Describe the work you do today: 

I am currently a rabbinical school student with an internship in the Office of Chaplains and Religious Life at Brown University. I am a freelance facilitator, leading wilderness expeditions and corporate/experiential teambuilding with Outward Bound. I also guide weekly meditation sessions at a local synagogue and spiritual center. 

How has your HDS degree influenced your career journey? 

HDS has been pivotal in informing my current professional and academic endeavors, as well as my orientation as a spiritual leader in general. At HDS I experienced what is possible in a dynamic and pluralistic society, especially one with deep divides: namely, a thriving, respectful, diverse, intelligent, and caring community where dialogue, complexity, nuance, and common humanity are valued and supported. 

What career advice would you offer to current HDS students? 

Don't be afraid to go against the grain and be counter culture. For instance, don't be afraid to advocate for and model slowing down, doing less, and prioritizing health and well-being. Also, resist polarization and the temptation to dehumanize those with whom you disagree. It's possible to remain committed to your values and still keep communication lines open with people on the "other side," whatever that may be. Have confidence in your own direction and ability to innovate and step into new spaces and create your own path if a particular one does not yet exist. 

Thank you to HDS and its leaders and culture for giving me such a strong foundation in true pluralism and multi-faith success stories!