Alysa Stanton

Alysa Stanton is a trailblazing American Reform rabbi who has made history in her field. She became the first African American female rabbi after being ordained on June 6, 2009. Prior to her ordination, Stanton had converted to Judaism at the age of 24, marking a significant turning point in her spiritual journey. Before pursuing a career in the rabbinate, she worked as a psychotherapist, bringing a unique perspective to her eventual role as a rabbi.

Stanton's groundbreaking career continued when she began serving as a rabbi at Congregation Bayt Shalom in Greenville, North Carolina, in August 2009. Notably, this appointment made her the first African American rabbi to lead a majority-white congregation. Through her work at Congregation Bayt Shalom, Stanton has demonstrated her ability to bridge cultural and racial divides, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity within the synagogue. Her pioneering achievements have paved the way for greater diversity and representation within the Jewish community.