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Esther Safran Foer
Director
I’ve been lucky enough to have had lots of interesting jobs in my lifetime, but nothing as exciting and rewarding as being the Director of Sixth & I. I originally got involved with Sixth & I as a volunteer when the building was rescued. At that time, I was running my own public relations firm with corporate clients. Sixth & I quickly became my passion and now has changed my life forever. The work here reminds me of working in a presidential political campaign – with its intensity, commitment, passion and hours. Outside the office I am the wife of the head of a nonprofit think tank, the mother of three writers, and grandmother of four amazing toddlers. Most recently I found myself humbled by the recognition of my work at Sixth & I as a 2008 Forward 50 honoree.
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Allison Adges
Programming Associate
Hi, I’m Allison! I coordinate classes and innovative opportunities for learning at Sixth & I. Whether you want to learn to speak Hebrew, cook Israeli style, or debate the relevance of Kabbalah, Sixth & I is the place for curious, eternal-student types. I also run our Ambassador program, an indispensible group of people who volunteer at events and keep the ‘gogue running seven days a week. I graduated from Binghamton University with a degree in Judaic Studies and enjoy sharing my passion for Jewish programming with the DC community. Aside from Sixth & I, some of my favorite things in life are the New York Rangers, chocolate, and Post-It Notes. I spend much of my free time outside playing Frisbee so, if you’re looking for me, just go to the nearest grassy field (I’ll be the one not wearing shoes!).
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Liz Fontek
Development Director
Hi, I’m Liz. When you see me, you’ll know who I am because I will be the one with the great, big smile; I am so happy to be here! I grew up in the Buckeye State and did not get to be part of the Jewish community there. I always knew deep inside it was missing. My husband, on the other end of the spectrum, grew up Orthodox, but we love and embrace all the ways there are to be Jewish. This is why I have dedicated the last 13 years to fundraising in the Jewish community in the Washington area (I was at the JCC of Greater Washington prior to my Sixth & I debut) and why I love Sixth & I. For me, Sixth & I embodies who I am both personally and professionally, and I could not be more excited to help contribute to its growth and sustenance. The loves of my life are my two sons and my husband. I enjoy traveling, cooking (I like to think of myself as a burgeoning foodie), and seeing Jewish life and culture embraced to its fullest.
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Allison Goldstein
Communications Associate
Hi, I’m Ali and I make sure that the word gets out about all of the magnetic, innovative, and creative programming taking place here at Sixth & I. Sharing Sixth & I’s mission of cultural fusion with all those who are as enthusiastic as we are is an exciting part of the work I do here. I grew up in New Jersey, graduated from the University of Michigan, and on Saturday mornings during football season you will likely still find me cheering on the Wolverines. Feel free to share travel destination suggestions with me. I love looking for new, exciting places to visit and I’m always sure to pack the latest book release from any female comedian. Also, I am an avid reader and collector of TIME magazine, and classic Woody Allen movies are my cinematic weakness.
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David Goldstein
Private Events
Hi, I’m David, and I coordinate private events here at Sixth & I. From Bar/Bat Mitzvahs and weddings to non-profit and corporate dinners and meetings, we are a space that can be used by all! No matter the event I’m planning, I love to get to know all of the families and clients I work with. I grew up in the USY circles of the Conservative movement, graduated from the University of Maryland College Park, and have had a lot of fun developing an entertainment company. Yes, I’m the resident DJ of the ‘gogue. I am here as a resource to anyone who decides to host their event and become part of the Sixth & I community.
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Eddie Henein
Chief of Security
Hello friends. I’m Eddie and I protect Sixth & I, the staff (who are like my family), and everyone who enters this most special place. I’m originally from Egypt and, if asked, I can and will walk like an Egyptian. I have been in charge of security at government buildings, embassies, and countless places in between, but nothing has meant more to me professionally than working for a place like Sixth & I. I infuse the office with Middle Eastern culture, whether it’s teaching Arabic to Jackie or bringing platters of baklava for the staff to enjoy. Look for me at concerts, Shabbat services, and all of our other events; I’m always here…even when you can’t see me. My 15 minutes of fame included being named the News4 Morning Person of the Day.
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Meredith Jacobs
Family Programming
If you are a parent of young kids, I am your gal—bringing you exciting, young family programming with real “take-home” value. You’ll have to know that I never set out to be the “Modern Jewish Mom.” When I started, I was a young Jewish mom who was doing typical, young mom stuff, until I realized that the teachings of our traditions help us raise strong families. That realization gave birth to my first book, The Modern Jewish Mom’s Guide to Shabbat and other amazing opportunities. I am proud to have a traditional home, but still consider myself to be quite hip and cool (at least I consider myself to be so!) I am excited to be a part of the innovative team at Sixth & I. Please be in touch if you want to attend parent committee meetings.
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Eyal Leib
Operations Manager
Shalom. Ma neeshma? Oh sorry, sometimes I forget that not everyone speaks Hebrew. I handle building operations and human resources for Sixth & I. This building is easy to love, so I enjoy making sure that everything is in working order. I oversaw the renovations that made the building handicapped accessible and am happy that we are now open to the entire community. I was a basketball player and shot hoops professionally across the world - from Boston, Berlin, and Budapest to countless places in between. I served in the Air Force unit of the Israeli army for three years. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and watching my young son laugh (at everything).
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Jackie Leventhal
Director of Cultural Programming and Communications
Hi, I'm Jackie ("Jacqueline" officially, "Jack" if you're a close friend or my father, who was hoping for a son). Cultural programs comprise my niche at the intersection of 6th and I streets. It is mandatory that I have my photo taken with the author, politician, celebrity, Supreme Court Justice, ambassador, Jonas brother, or other distinguished personality participating in one of the programs I coordinate. My overarching goals include bringing the high-five back to the workplace and learning a second language. In my spare time, I seek serenity on a hot pink yoga mat. Indeed, color does matter. I love traveling and would like to visit 30 countries by the time I'm 30, but I don't think I have that much vacation time. I'm forever in search of the perfect muffin, as I have a severe sweet tooth; it's in my genes – my great-grandfather was a baker.
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Anne Lumerman
Director of Jewish Programming
Hi! I was born in St. Louis and attended Wash U. I created our Ambassador program for people looking to get more involved with Sixth & I and to help attract new visitors. A matchmaker at heart, I’m continually expanding my Jewish and non-Jewish networks so no opportunities for action or collaboration are missed. I'm a blogger, a political activist, and a dog lover. Feel free to contact me about getting involved in Sixth & I life. I have trouble leaving the office (because we have so much fun) so I’m usually available to chat.
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Shana Porter
Administrative and Development Associate
Hi, I’m Shana (short for Shoshana), and I work on building a strong foundation for Sixth & I’s future. Most importantly, I am the mother of Tongo, our adorable office dog. I was born in Maryland, graduated from the University of Maryland, and live in Maryland with my husband, Alex. I was raised in an Orthodox home, so I’m constantly answering kashrut questions around the office. Outside of work, I am passionate about literature (the first time I came to Sixth & I was to see Toni Morrison), food (my husband is an amazing cook), costume dramas (4-hour Jane Eyre anyone?), and walking with Tongo.
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Rabbi Shira Stutman
Director of Community Engagement
Hi, I’m Rabbi Shira. As Sixth & I’s first-ever Director of Community Engagement, I’m here as a resource for you. My focus at Sixth & I is to make Jewish meaning and build Jewish community. As the sole rabbi on staff, I strive to infuse Sixth & I's diverse programs with Jewish context and content. I support a number of "boutique" communities, including workshops for those interested in joining the Jewish community; an ongoing dialogue group for Jews wanting to learn more about and discuss Israeli/Palestinian issues; and a young-family Chavurah. I graduated from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College in 2007, where I was a Wexner Graduate Fellow. I also graduated from Columbia University and the Charles E Smith Jewish Day School. I was the founding rabbi of Kesher Shalom Congregation in Abington, PA. And my favorite t-shirt reads: "This is what a real rabbi looks like."
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Aaron Weintraub
Director of Live Entertainment Programming
I'm Aaron and my job is all about entertaining people. Whether it’s creating exciting, unique social programs for people in their twenties and thirties, or coordinating a sold out concert or comedy show, I get satisfaction from seeing the happy faces that leave Sixth & I after every event. One of the best things about my job is the unpredictability of it – whether I’m MC’ing Trivia Night or talking to rock stars, I love how different each day is. I also look for opportunities to infuse my other passions into my work, like travel (with off-site trips) and sports (with programs with local area stars). Sixth & I is all about family for me, and I highly value the great people with whom I work and those I’ve met on the job. I look forward to meeting you or welcoming you back to Sixth & I at future events.
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