Mentee Spotlight: Jennifer Brown

Take a minute to get to know WLI mentee, Jennifer Brown, by reading the Q&A below!

Please tell us about your project?

I was able to co-present with Rabbi Kanter about women in Judaism. I can honestly say since that wonderful opportunity, I have learned even more and have become even more fascinated with how women show up in Judaism and how we embody it!

Please share a few of your favorite things you have learned in the class sessions?

I learned so much from my cohort! The specifics of what they said did not stick with me, rather, their experiences did. More importantly, hearing their stories helped me to reflect on my own relationship with Judaism and my Jewish identity. Prior to our sessions together, I had always felt that I had my own, unique experience of being a Jewish woman. I was fascinated to hear everyone’s stories, their joys and their misgivings, and why their Jewish identity is such a powerful marker of who they are. Their stories and perspectives that we shared throughout our classes together helped me to see that I was not alone. Our discussions were an opportunity for me to see that we are part of a strong Jewish lineage of women – and that we have a lot to offer!

How have you stayed involved with WLI since your year ended?

I have not stayed involved. Through the pandemic, losing my beloved stepfather, Howard Treshansky, may his memory be a blessing, and a significant career change, I have not been focused on my roots or Jewish identity the past several years. However, this year I have felt a significant shift in myself and my desire to wind my roots with others within the community. It is a welcome change!

What is your occupation and have you been able to apply what you learned in WLI to your job?

I am a psychologist and professor. I am one of the few Jews on my campus and the majority of my clients are not Jewish. That being said, I am always aware of being a bit different than those around me (Although most of us who identify as any minority in this country would find themselves in a similar boat!). That being said, I know that what I carry from my WLI sessions to my occupation is a very strong pride and grounding, a love and a stability, in my Jewish identity – specifically in my identity as a Jewish woman that has been trained in leadership from WLI! It is understandable that those that I work with don’t know that they shouldn’t schedule important meetings on the High-Holidays and late Friday afternoons; how would they know? However, as a Jewish representative I make sure to educate them on equity practices for people of different religions. I feel that the advocacy I provide is not just important for the Jewish community, but also to advocate for religious equity for other religions that have holidays that need to go on the calendar (ie, Friday nights are sacred for Muslims too!).

Please tell us more about yourself, your family and/or your involvement in the Jewish community.

My mother, Fredi Brown (also a mentor alum of WLI), and I are members of Congregation Or Tzion in Scottsdale. I only recently joined! I figured it was time that I rooted myself in a community and 5783 is a fantastic year to do so! My mother and stepfather (the dynamic duo of Fredi and Howard) were founding members of Or Tzion (formally known as Or Chadash) about a million years ago. I remember when they chose to do it and I could not be prouder of the rebels that they are! That being said, I have just joined, and as such have begged the organizing body to please wait on putting me on committees until after the chagim! I am truly excited and animated though to become active in the Jewish community.

In your spare time what are some hobbies or activities you like to do? (and/or share some fun facts about yourself)

Currently, I truly have no spare time. It has definitely put a damper on my social life! However, I am very fulfilled in my work and that, in and of itself, is a blessing. Prior to the pandemic I was a bit of a gym rat – as exercise and dance have always kept me sane (which is rather important as a psychologist and professor, don’t you agree?). I am also keenly aware of the call of Nature and I have taken great care in reducing the amount of single use plastic that I purchase. This does mean making some of my own food – bread, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, etc., but it’s worth it. Plus every now and then I find the time to make a babka or two as well!