September 18, 2025 -

Meet Our Clergy

Rabbi Andrew Jacobs, Senior Rabbi

For 23 years, Rabbi Andrew has been the heart and spiritual leader of our congregation. Through his vision, dedication, and compassionate guidance, Ramat Shalom Beth Israel has grown and thrived – becoming the dynamic, inclusive, and deeply connected community it is today.

A phenomenal teacher, Rabbi Andrew’s adult education classes bring Judaism to life with depth, relevance, and humor. His conversations with children and teens are engaging, thought-provoking, and fun – meeting each person where they are and sparking genuine curiosity about Jewish life. Whether in the classroom or on the bima, he weaves learning into services and holiday celebrations in ways that elevate tradition and deepen spiritual meaning.

Above all, Rabbi Andrew is a warm, approachable presence who goes out of his way to connect with every member of our community. He listens deeply, celebrates wholeheartedly, and provides comfort and strength during difficult times. Simply put – once you meet him, you’ll want to come to synagogue, again and again.

Rabbi Andrew is a graduate of Vassar College and holds a master’s degree from the Jewish Theological Seminary. He received Rabbinic Ordination from the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, where he also earned a master’s degree in Jewish education. He is married to Rabbi Cheryl, and together they are the proud parents of Abigail and Jonah. In addition to his congregational work, Rabbi Andrew is a passionate advocate for Israel, as well as meaningful Jewish engagement and believes in building a community where every person feels seen, heard, and valued.

Rabbi Cheryl Jacobs, Director of Lifelong Learning & Engagement

Rabbi Cheryl is passionate about building meaningful connections and fostering a vibrant, welcoming Jewish community. She oversees Ramat Shalom Beth Israel’s educational programs, membership, and programming, always striving to create experiences that bring people closer to Judaism and to one another. Her leadership is rooted in deep compassion, inclusivity, and a commitment to lifelong Jewish learning.

She loves being on the bima with her fellow clergy, reading Torah, and delivering sermons that inspire and uplift. Rabbi Cheryl brings warmth, insight, and a sense of joy to every service and celebration. Dedicated to the broader community, she also serves as Chaplain for the Davie Police Department, offering spiritual guidance and support beyond the synagogue walls.

She sees the Ramat Shalom Beth Israel community as one big family and is deeply grateful for the love and support its members share. Her open-door philosophy and approachable leadership style make her a trusted presence for congregants of all ages.

Rabbi Cheryl is a graduate of Hobart and William Smith Colleges and holds master’s degrees from Yale University, Nova Southeastern University, and the Jewish Theological Seminary, where she also received her Rabbinical Ordination. She is a member of the Rabbinical Assembly of the Conservative Movement. She is married to Rabbi Andrew, and together they are the proud parents of Abigail and Jonah, and their dogs Caroline and Theodor.

Cantor Jodi Rozental, Cantor

Her voice will lift you higher, her compassion will touch your heart, and her creativity will inspire you. Our Cantorial Soloist and Director of Music and Culture, Jodi Rozental, is a true gem.

At just eight years old, Jodi connected to her Judaism through its soul-stirring music and her beloved cantor who became her mentor. By the time she was 14, she was leading worship services while her cantor was away each summer, for five consecutive years until leaving for college. That was the beginning of Jodi’s cantorial training and the beginning of a journey that led to her becoming a spiritual powerhouse.

After a meaningful 18 years with a congregation in Miami, Cantor Jodi feels so blessed and proud to be serving the unique and wonderful community that is Ramat Shalom Beth Israel. Along with creating diverse and uplifting musical programs, she is especially passionate about promoting healing through music and supporting those going through difficult times. To that end, Cantor Jodi spearheads the Ramat Cares program, delivering hand-knitted healing shawls, home-baked challahs and warm, comforting meals to congregants who need some love.

Cantor Jodi is a member of the Women Cantor’s Network and is a past board member. She lives in Plantation, Florida with her husband, Ruben, her dog Bella and her cat Jake. They are currently looking to grow their furry family.