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.
Rabbi Michael Schudrich is the Chief Rabbi of Poland, reaching out and opening doors for Polish Jews discovering their Jewish identity.
CAN YOU SHARE A SPECIAL PARDES MEMORY?
The closeness of the students and the Rabbi has stuck with me over the years.
WHAT DID YOU DO FOR THE FIRST TIME AT PARDES?
I studied Talmud out of my own desire for the first time, rather than as a requirement at a yeshiva.
WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE CLASS AT PARDES?
My Talmud class Rabbi Love.
IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SHABBAT GUEST, WHO WOULD IT BE?
I would invite Yosef Karo, who combined halacha with mysticism. He taught how to balance and integrate halacha and mysticism into one holistic practice of Judasim.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PASUK, PASSAGE, OR TEXT?
לֹ֥א בַשָּׁמַ֖יִם הִ֑וא
“It is not in Heaven.”
WHAT DOES THE JEWISH WORLD NEED MOST RIGHT NOW?
Mutual respect for one another.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF IN YOUR WORK?
My daughter.
HOW DOES PARDES CONTINUE TO AFFECT YOU TODAY?
Pardes showed me how Jews of all backgrounds can study and create together.