They are leading and creating organizations and businesses of all kinds, responding to humanitarian crises, writing novels, educating at all levels, creating works of art, and so much more! In celebration of Pardes’s 50th, we are highlighting 50 standout alumni whose accomplishments exemplify the rich texture of the Pardes community worldwide.
Adam Rossano is the Executive Director of Limmud UK, supporting and developing volunteers as they lead unique cross-communal Jewish learning and community events.
CAN YOU SHARE A SPECIAL PARDES MEMORY?
My favorite memories from my summer at Pardes are from my Talmud havruta, working our way together through passages in the busy Beit Midrash
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE CLASS AT PARDES?
Talmud with Leah Rosenthal and Tefilah with Yaffa Epstein. Two incredible teachers, very different in style yet totally passionate and inspiring and insightful. I couldn’t get enough of these two in particular.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PASSAGE, PASUK, OR TEXT?
One I love is Kohelet Rabbah 7:13:1. I love the image of G-d taking a stroll with the first man and introducing him to each and every tree.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR FAVORITE SPOT IN JERUSALEM?
Machane Yehuda is one of my favourite spots in Jerusalem. World class people-watching spot. Incredible fresh produce by day. Lively bars and music by night.
IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SHABBAT GUEST, WHO WOULD IT BE?
My Bubby, Zena Mazin. She was the embodiment of lifelong learning. She was a school teacher and organized the adult education program at her shul. She never stopped teaching and learning, which continues to inspire me today. I think she would love the work I do now, and I would love to share it with her and ask her what sessions she would propose at Limmud Festival.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN YOUR WORK?
Facilitating opportunities for others to find personal meaning in their Jewish lives.
HOW DOES PARDES CONTINUE TO AFFECT YOU TODAY?
I remain committed to incorporating Jewish learning into my leadership development and the yearly cycle of my work. I think all Jewish community professionals should be engaged in Jewish learning that’s right for them. I love learning texts and am determined to get back to Pardes at some point to further invest in my Jewish learning journey.
WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE TO SHARE?
My experience at Pardes played a major part in connecting me with the wonderful Yaffa Epstein, who later officiated at my wedding, thanks to the relationship we had built and how inspired Becky and I were by Yaffa’s teaching.