Our teams
Hillel at VCU is led by a student board, board of directors, and two professionals. Our leaders have diverse backgrounds and Jewish identities, and a range of interests and priorities, but share a common goal to empower VCU students to enrich the Jewish people, Richmond, and the world.
Student Board
Cal Newmann, President
Mara Lobley, VP Programs
Itai Benjamin, VP Culture
Isabella Vanderborg, VP Marketing
Dylan Cohen, VP Engagement
Professional Team
Sheri Rodman, Executive Director
Sheri has nearly two decades of experience—in education, nonprofit operations, leadership development, and community engagement. Parallel to her professional career, Sheri has always been a passionate lay leader in the Jewish community. Sheri served as the ‘madricha’ on many Birthright trips during vacations from teaching high school students. She served on the board of governors for the Buffalo Jewish Federation and helped lead the community’s engagement efforts. In Richmond, Sheri is on the PJ Library committee and help launch the Shalom Baby initiative.
Sheri holds a B.A. in Economics and Judaic Studies from the University of Michigan and an M.A. in Education from America University.
In her spare time, you can find Sheri on her yoga mat or with her husband and two little kids exploring Richmond’s restaurant scene, at a local playground, or at tot Shabbat at one of our synagogues.
Kayla Seabolt, Springboard Fellow
Kayla Seabolt is from Fairfax, Virginia, and moved to Richmond Virginia for her college years at VCU. There, she earned her degree in Music Education and received certification in Disability Studies, all while immersing herself in campus life. Kayla thrived as an active member of her campus jewish life during her time there.
These passions not only filled her college days but also ignited her commitment to community and service. Prior to her role as a Springboard Fellow, Kayla shared her love for music as an elementary school educator. Her journey with Hillel during college profoundly influenced her, sparking a desire to inspire Jewish learning and community among students today. Kayla thrives on connecting people and nurturing their passions.
Outside of work you can find Kayla on the yoga mat, reading a good book or playing guitar.
Board of Directors
Kevin Fine, President
Jim Weinberg, Vice President
Steve Biegler, Treasurer
Michal Coffey, Secretary
John Jay Schwartz, Immediate Past President
Melanie Fine
Russ Finer
Sara Rosenbaum
Graham Sheridan