Kavana Staff

Rabbi Rachel Nussbaum, Executive Director
Rachel is the Rabbi and Executive Director of the Kavana Cooperative, which she co-founded in 2006.  In April, Rachel was named to Newsweek Magazine's list of "America's Top 50 Influential Rabbis."  In addition, she has been a recipient of the prestigious AVI CHAI Fellowship (the Jewish "genius award"), the Joshua Venture Group Fellowship (for Jewish social entrepreneurs), and the Wexner Graduate Fellowship.  Her passions include teaching rabbinic texts, leading spirited and musical prayer services, and challenging people to see Judaism as a catalyst for change.  Rachel was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary in 2004.  She lives in Queen Anne with her husband Noam Pianko and their two adorable daughters, Yona and Mia. Read more about our rabbi.

Liz Thompson, Director of Operations
Liz has a wealth of experience with both non-profit organizations and Jewish education.  She received her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Psychology from Washington State University, and a Certificate in Non-Profit Management from the University of Washington.  Liz joined the Kavana Community during the beautiful chaos of the High Holidays in 2010 and has felt at home ever since.  Before working at Kavana, Liz spent five years working and volunteering for the Fremont Abbey, a local arts organization.  She also worked at the Stroum Jewish Community Center as an early childhood educator.  Liz has a love for local, community-driven organizations.