Rick Jacobs

Rabbi Rick Jacobs is the president of the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), the congregational arm of the Reform Jewish Movement in North America, representing the largest and most diverse Jewish community on the continent, with more than 800 congregations and millions of individuals engaged in inclusive and progressive Jewish life.

A visionary leader and advocate for justice, inclusion, and vibrant Jewish practice, Jacobs spent two decades as the spiritual leader of Westchester Reform Temple in Scarsdale, New York, where he transformed communal worship and strengthened synagogue life. Earlier in his career, he served at the Brooklyn Heights Synagogue, where he founded and co‑directed the first synagogue‑based homeless shelter in New York City, reflecting his longstanding commitment to social justice and community service.

Ordained in 1982 by Hebrew Union College‑Jewish Institute of Religion, Jacobs has continued his engagement with Jewish learning as a senior rabbinic fellow at Jerusalem’s Shalom Hartman Institute. He is widely recognized for his leadership in areas including interfaith dialogue, advocacy for an inclusive and secure Israel, and expanding access to Jewish education and engagement. His voice is regularly sought in national conversations on religion, ethics, and contemporary Jewish life.