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 Chaplaincy Graduate Joyce Schoenheimer Oleshansky, Ph.D.
“As a chaplain I hope to continue to accompany and serve people of all faiths here in Hawaii as they journey through life’s joys and sorrows.”
1) With the ceremony approaching, what emotions are you feeling?
I am happy and carefree. I look forward to graduation and celebrating with everyone.
2) What is one learning from your Academy experience that you will take with you after graduation?
Find community with which to study, laugh, and provide peer consultation.
3) Is there anything you learned at AJRCA that truly surprised you?
The power of dedicating learning to a loved one and the power of Jewish practice and community during the toughest times. I was also surprised by the love and devotion of the teachers and the depth of feeling I developed in return.
4) If you could go back in time and tell your pre-AJRCA self one thing, what would that be?
I would say, “Don’t fret. Everyone enters the material from where they are. It could be that no one is at your place, but everyone will honor your ideas and input and love you through it.“
Congratulations Joyce!
Mazal tov, Joyce! You already bring so much to your community—your growth into chaplaincy is such an expression of your caring soul.