Rabbi Edie Yakutis ’23

Please tell us about yourself and your experience at Hebrew Union College.
I am a second-career rabbi, ordained in Cincinnati in 2023, thriving in my two primary roles of Rabbi and Chaplain. Cincinnati remains my base, as I travel to Temple Beth El in Muncie, Indiana, on a bi-monthly basis, or to the Lindner Center of Hope, a behavioral health hospital in Cincinnati. The hebrew union college rabbinic program accepted me after a 22-year career at Microsoft. I am married, with a son, daughter-in-law and a nephew all living nearby. Our family is blessed with a gracious plenty of dogs, good food prepared together and laughter.

What do you love about Hebrew Union College?
I learned many years ago that there are educations you pay for, and educations you find/create. Hebrew Union College represents both to me. The classroom work was challenging and deeply rewarding. I also made a community there that continues to be thought-provoking and supportive in ways I could not have imagined. The Klau library is an amazing treasure house of knowledge that rewards every visit. The resources of both the Klau library and the American Jewish Archives cannot be underestimated when it comes to researching for my ongoing projects.

What is most rewarding about your Hebrew Union College program?
The learning, and the ongoing relationships that were forged as a part the seminary.

What does Hebrew Union College mean to you?
Hebrew Union College was a 5-year life investment representing a pivot point in my life. I am grateful I made the choice. It was a watershed experience. The program is rigorous and multi-faceted. The people there strive to prepare all students for their lives after ordination. I have taken what I learned there, and continue to expand horizons and thoughts, as I move into my new phase of life.