Remembering Dr. Ruth Westheimer (z”l)

JTS was deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Ruth Westheimer (z”l), a true warrior and trailblazing figure. Dr. Ruth taught a Senior Seminar for JTS Rabbinical and Cantorial School students about the intersection of sexuality and their future roles as religious leaders for many years. She also participated in our commencement ceremonies and was a familiar face in the halls of JTS. 

Chancellor Shuly Rubin Schwartz, former List College dean, also invited her into the classroom to speak with List College students. “Students so respected her wisdom, candor, and sensitivities. It was clear that she had a deep understanding of students’ needs,” said Chancellor Schwartz. “It was an honor to know her. She was a cherished member of the JTS community and will be greatly missed.”

Rabbi Bill Lebeau, former JTS Dean of the Rabbinical School and Chairman of the Department of Professional Skills, recently spoke at Dr. Ruth’s intimate funeral at Riverside Memorial Chapel and honored his close friend. “Few people in the world have earned the love of so many throughout the world as Ruth did,” he said. Read more about his remarks in JTA and what other close friends and family shared.