Em Besthoff is excited to get to know you! As Associate Director of Lifelong Learning, they create and oversee our teen experiences for grades 7-12 at Temple Emanu-El. Em grew up personally and professionally in shuls. A former NFTY kid, they use their natural ability to connect with people and their love of Judaism to follow their passions. They (concurrently!) earned their Masters in Religious Education from Hebrew Union College and Kids Yoga certification in 2019. Em has always known that Jewish teen experiences were vital and is constantly dreaming big. Recently, they co-created and participated in a Shabbat dinner experience called Queer Kehilah for Romemu Brooklyn. As a queer Jew, they want to bring spiritual experiences to those who are looking for community and conversation. A common theme in her life is silliness, and when not at work can be found reading in a cozy sweater, adding to her vinyl collection, and walking around New York City.
