Rabbi Scott Looper was ordained in 1989. He began his career at Am Shalom, in Glencoe, Il and in 1994 began serving Congregation Or Shalom. Born in California, and educated at Berkeley (’80), Rabbi Looper is married to Dr. Sarah J. Tanzer. Together they have two children, Max and Eli. In addition to his congregational work, Rabbi Looper has served both the larger Jewish, secular, and inter-religious communities – focusing on the well-being of the individual and the development of a united communal response to local issues. Rabbi Looper is known for his friendly nature, his connection to the members of Or Shalom – from the very young to the most mature, and for his willingness to engage with the congregation in a conversation that encourages exploration and creativity. Rabbi Looper writes Jewish stories for children, poetry, and is captivated by the game of golf.
Cantorial Soloist Shelley Orbach
Shelley began his tenure at Or Shalom 25 years ago. Formally an architect, by day he has been a science teacher at Waukegan High School since 2002. A folk singer, songwriter and award-winning poet, he has been a member of the American society of Composers, Authors & Publishers for over 20 years. Shelley co-wrote, "Song of the Promised Land" which received a 1st Prize in the American Zionist Movement Song Competition in 2000. Shelley also teaches hebrew songs at another congregation and is preparing to publish his first songbook.
Marcia Cohen, Education Director
Our Education Director, Marcia Cohen, has been involved in Jewish Education in the Chicago Area for the past 18 years, and has been director of Or Shalom’s Religious and Hebrew school program since 2001.Whether through teaching Family School on Sunday mornings, working with B’nai Mitzvah students, helping students with special needs, or running retreats, Marcia gets to know each student and their family personally, with the goal of instilling a positive Jewish identity in each child.Marcia received her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania and her Master’s Degree from the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.In addition to her responsibilities at Or Shalom, Marcia is the incoming President of the Chicago Association of Temple Educators, and served as co-chair of the Midwest Conference for the Advancement of Jewish Education in February 2007.
Andrea Freier, Executive Director
Our Executive Director, Andrea Freier, has been involved with Temple Life and Jewish Education in the Chicago area for the past 13 years and has been with Or Shalom since 2005 in numerous roles. In addition to her Administrative skills, Andi is an experienced religious school educator. She has been an active advocate for quality education for children in both public and religious schools. Andi is a graduate of the American University in Washington, DC where she majored in International Studies. She is also a graduate of the Florence Melton Adult Mini School.In addition, Andi is a member of CATA, the Chicago Area Temple Administrators, as well as NATA-the National Association of Temple Administrators.
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