Rabbi Rachel Axelrad was ordained at AJRCA in 2020. She joined Desert Outreach Synagogue (DOS) as Associate Rabbi in 2021, working with her close friend and colleague, Rabbi Dr. Jules King (AJRCA 2018) where she provides adult Jewish education, leads Shabbat services, and manages pastoral care and crises in Rabbi King’s absence. Before joining DOS, she worked as a part-time rabbi leading Shabbat Services and High Holy Day services for different congregations, as well as funerals and memorial services.
She is known for her pleasant voice, dynamic crashes and sermons, Torah Study sessions, and her capacity to provide pastoral care. She came to the rabbinate after 32 years of professional work in the finance and accounting fields. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts degree in Russian Studies from Pomona College, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting and Finance from University of La Verne School of Business.
Her thesis topic at AJRCA is: The Theology of Ezekiel as Reflected in His Use of Language.