With our 2025 Ordination-Graduation ceremony approaching, we are highlighting members of the graduating class. Click here to see all of the posts in this series.
Today we’re talking with Rabbinic Ordinee Jody Robin Kussin, Ph.D.
“As a rabbi I hope to integrate my many selves to continue to be of service to others—spiritually, psychologically, educationally, and emotionally. I’d like to help others to build community and find meaning, to not simply survive but to thrive.”
– Jody Kussin
1) With the ceremony approaching, what emotions are you feeling?
I feel tremendously grateful to all who helped me on this five-year (65-year?!) journey. I am overcome with joy and appreciation for all the villages who support me and teach me, who inspire me and make me want to be a better version of myself.
2) What is one learning from your Academy experience that you will take with you after graduation?
We are all part of something much bigger than any one individual, and in concert together, we can truly be of service to our communities. Let’s not be shortsighted by holding too tightly to the past models that we choke our
potential and possibilities for the future.
3) Is there anything you learned at AJRCA that truly surprised you?
People. Are. Interesting. B’tzelem Elohimm. We are all made in the image of the Divine.
4) If you could go back in time and tell your pre-AJRCA self one thing, what would that be?
I would remind my 60-year-old self that I am a lifelong learner and that there will continue to be many amazing, wonderful mentors, teachers, and healers in my life, both older and younger than I. Additionally, I would remind myself to pay forward the gifts I receive by being a teacher, mentor, or healer for others.
Congratulations Jody!
WOOHOOOO!!! What a spectacular graduate!
So proud of this life long learner! What a great role model for all of us. Congrats!
I so AGREE!
an amazing role model and fabulous friend! so proud of her accomplishments !
I am inspired by, in awe of, and so proud of, you! So honored to be part of your village. Congratulations !
Very proud of my daughter Jody. She is an amazing role model.
So very proud of Jody, my partner in life, who has brought me to this moment when I can fulfill my purpose as a Rebbetzin.
Jody never ceases to amaze me! She has been a role model & a blessing to me for a very long time! May God bless her in her new chapter as she continues her life of service to those around her!
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Karya Bintang Abadi