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Staff Biographies:
​Rabbi Joel Hoffman

Joel has been the director of Birthright Judaism since its inception in 2000. Similar to rabbis throughout most of history, Joel has a regular "day job" while teaching and writing about Judaism in his free-time.  Joel worked in the non-profit sector for ten years, and is currently in his twelfth year working as a special education teacher. 
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Over the years Joel has given 100s of lectures on Jewish topics—all for free--in 12 different states. He particularly enjoys introducing Jews to the richness of the Talmud and to how Hasidic teachings can spiritually enhance one's life.


A couple of teaching highlights include being the scholar-in-residence for an all-day retreat of the Los Angeles Board of Rabbis, and speaking at an Evangelical gathering about Israel advocacy with 700+ people in attendance. Joel has also published over 30 d'vrei Torah, online essays, journal articles, and opinion-editorials. (see Writings.)

Joel's general education includes a B.A. from the University of Illinois--where he played on the ice hockey team (ACHA Div. 1)--a master's degree in education from Gratz College, a Massachusetts Teacher's License in special education and middle school math/science, and a Principal’s License.

Joel's formal Jewish education includes earning a master's degree in Jewish studies from Spertus College, and then studying in Israel for three years--the final two years at Yeshivat Darche Noam (a.k.a., "Shapells") which culminated in obtaining rabbinical ordination.



Joel lives in the Boston area, his oldest of three children is a freshman in college, and he enjoys hiking, mountain biking, working out, and rooting for the New England Patriots.


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