For Immediate Release

Contact: Rabbi Elie Weissman

Phone: (516) 433-4811 ext. 103

Email: rabbi@yiplainview.com

REBBETZIN AVITAL WEISSMAN BECOMES A YOETZET HALACHA 

Community Leader Joins Select Fraternity of Women Halachic Consultants

Manhattan, NY, October 27, 2013:  Rebbetzin Avital Weissman received her official title of Yoetzet Halacha during commencement exercises today at The Spanish & Portuguese Synagogue. As part of NISHMAT’s U.S. Yoatzot Halacha Fellows Program inaugural graduating class, Rebbetzin Weissman is now one of only a handful of women formally recognized to oversee issues pertaining to women’s health, marriage and family purity. Rebbetzin Weisman, along with her fellow graduates, have become the standard bearers for Jewish women’s authority, as they serve to create a foundation for future women to follow in their footsteps.

This accomplishment enhances Rebbetzin Weissman’s already stellar résumé. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in History and Judaic Studies from Stern College as well as a Master’s Degree in Jewish Education from Azrieli Graduate School. She additionally holds a Certification in Educational Technology which she received from the New York Institute of Technology. She currently works at the Hebrew Academy of Nassau County in Plainview, serving as their Technology and Media Specialist, using her considerable knowledge and vast experience to introduce innovative educational programs to the school.

Brian Berns, President of the Young Israel of Plainview was happy to put this achievement in perspective. “Adding a Yotetzet Halacha to Plainview would be, by itself, remarkably meaningful. Having Avital Weisman be our Yotetzet Halacha is exponentially better. Besides increasing both the overall breadth and depth of our programing and services, in Avital Weissman, we have a woman whose passion for spirituality is matched only by that of her dedication to her community.”

The dual implications of Rebbetzin Weissman’s graduation were as tangible as they were significant. The ceremony equally represented both the final conclusion of many years of hard work and commitment and, conversely, the very beginning of a new chapter of Jewish life in Plainview. The event itself was beautifully orchestrated, allowing for each woman to have the opportunity to fully appreciate the importance of what they had accomplished.

Sandra Katz, President of the Young Israel of Plainview Sisterhood, was elated with Rebbetzin Weissman’s accomplishment. “Historically, our community has always prided itself, among other qualities, as being inclusive, accepting and accommodating. That being said, having a dedicated Yoetzet Halacha in our midst will only serve to enrich what Plainview already has to offer.”

The Young Israel of Plainview is a vibrant Modern Orthodox Jewish Congregation in Plainview New York. For more information on this and our other programs and events please visit our website at ww.yiplainview.com or contact Rabbi Elie Weissman at rabbi@yiplainview.com