Shalom, Nashville

My quest to learn as much as I can—quickly—about Jewish Nashville began the moment I landed at BNA.  

The first lesson I learned: Southern hospitality is everything it’s rumored to be.  

Jewish Nashville truly understands the meaning of Shalom. I’ve received such a warm welcome and feel incredibly fortunate to be meeting so many people who are generously sharing their insights and experiences with me. 

I want to hear your stories. Please feel free to reach out: judy@jewishnashville.org. 

My second lesson: Always carry an umbrella! Seriously though, I do appreciate how beautifully green Tennessee is from all the precipitation.  

The Nashville community is a remarkably special place. It might not always be apparent in the bustle of day-to-day life but take it from someone seeing it with fresh eyes—the warmth and openness to Jewish life here is not something to take for granted. I’m looking forward to proudly sharing Nashville’s unique spirit as I connect with colleagues nationwide. 

Our patriarch Abraham taught us about the tent of meeting—the idea of throwing open the tent flaps to welcome others in. The Jewish Federation of Greater Nashville is an extension of that tent: a welcoming, inclusive central address for Jewish life, where all are encouraged to participate. 

There’s a song by Stealer’s Wheel from 1972, “Stuck in the Middle with You,” that’s been covered more than 35 times across a wide range of genres. That diversity of interpretation says something powerful: people from very different places and perspectives are seeking common ground. 

Finding comfort in the middle isn’t easy. It requires a willingness to listen to and respect differing viewpoints—and to seek understanding, even when agreement isn’t possible. That’s exactly what the Jewish Federation strives to be: a place of connection, dialogue, and unity. 

We are a small people—just 2% of the global population—and, especially in the wake of the events of October 7, 2023, we’ve been reminded of the deep-seated hate that still exists toward the Jewish community. But history has shown us that this is not a new story. And it’s also shown us that through unity, resilience, and mutual support, we endure—and thrive. 

As I begin what I believe will be a long, meaningful, and fulfilling tenure serving the Nashville Jewish community, I look forward to discovering all that makes Jewish Nashville so vibrant—and working alongside you to ensure our future remains strong and bright. 

Thank you for the opportunity to call Nashville home. 

Warmly, 
Judy