For several years now, Rebecca has worked at StandWithUs, an international nonpartisan nonprofit that supports Israel and fights antisemitism. For the past two years Rebecca has served as the Associate Director of Campus Education, responsible for all education and content creation, as well as running the StandWithUs First-Year Leadership internship, a program for first-year students.
Since October 7, Rebecca’s focus has been education against antisemitism more than ever before, in hundreds of campuses across the U.S and Canada.
MEET REBECCA:
Tell us about Your Work/project:
My work focuses on empowering staff and students to effectively advocate for Israel and the Jewish people. I educate our Campus Regional Managers, equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to mentor students across North America. This includes developing training programs, creating engaging educational content, and providing support to address campus challenges. By ensuring our materials are dynamic, relevant, and empowering, I aim to inspire meaningful impact and confidence in navigating conversations and challenges.
What is your proudest achievement?
One of my proudest achievements has been creating and developing the StandWithUs FLI: First-Year Leadership Internship from its initial pilot stage into a flagship program it is today. In its first year, FLI had 13 participants and lacked a formalized curriculum. Over the past two years, I have cultivated this program into a cornerstone of our work, with a robust structure and impactful programming.
By Spring 2024, we welcomed a cohort of over 75 first-year students, equipping them with the tools and confidence to navigate campus life as proud Zionist Jews. The curriculum has evolved into five dynamic, hands-on sessions, offering a blend of historical, cultural, and advocacy training. Through FLI, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring over 200 students nationwide, helping them build leadership skills and a strong sense of identity. Watching these students grow into thoughtful and empowered advocates has been immensely rewarding.
How would you describe the impact of your Masa program on your life and professional path?
My Masa program had a profound and transformative impact on my life and professional path. When I began the program, I was deeply disengaged from both my Jewish identity and my connection to Zionism. During my 10 months in Israel, through Masa’s thoughtfully curated programming, I was given the space and tools to explore the rich complexity of what it means to be Jewish and to discover the beauty, resilience, and diversity of Israel.
This experience was not just a personal journey but a spiritual awakening. I reconnected with my Jewish roots in ways I had never imagined, finding pride and purpose in my heritage. The program sparked a sense of belonging.
Beyond personal growth, Masa became a pivotal turning point in my professional journey. Initially, I planned to build a career in early childhood education, but my time in Israel ignited a passion for Israel education and advocacy. I realized I wanted to help others, especially young people, explore and deepen their own connections to Judaism and Israel. Masa didn’t just provide me with clarity about my identity—it gave me a new purpose and the courage to pursue it. Today, I dedicate my work to empowering others, a path I would not have found without Masa’s transformative impact.
Who is your role model?
My role model is Bari Weiss, someone who saw antisemitism and refused to ignore it. She made a bold choice to leave her prestigious job at The New York Times, bringing national attention to the rising tide of antisemitism in the media and beyond. Despite the uncertainty of what would come next, she didn’t hesitate—she saw a problem and acted decisively. One of her most powerful moments for me was her “I am a Jew” speech. It hangs on my fridge as a daily reminder of the importance of standing up for what’s right, no matter the cost.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
I see myself continuing to educate and empower the next generation of Jewish and Zionist leaders. I am deeply passionate about creating opportunities for young people to connect with their heritage, build confidence in their identity, and develop the skills needed to advocate for themselves and their communities. My goal is to equip future leaders with the tools to bring us closer to peace—not just in the Middle East, but also by promoting inclusivity and dialogue in their own environments.
What is your advice for young Jews around the world who want to make a difference?
Educate Yourself: Knowledge is power. Learn about Jewish history, Zionism, Israel, and the challenges facing the Jewish community today. Equip yourself with facts and perspectives to engage in thoughtful conversations and to counter misinformation. Being informed will empower you to be a credible voice for your community and values.
Find Your Passion: Making a difference looks different for everyone. Whether it’s social justice, advocacy, education, art, or innovation, find what excites you and align it with your Jewish values.