Kira Pollard

PRESIDENT

Hi! My name is Kira I am a second-year double majoring in Economics and Psychology (and maybe minoring in Media Arts & Design). I am from New Jersey but I am also from South Africa so it might be hard to understand me at times (kidding, that’s because I laugh a lot). My favourite UChicago event is Berry Palooza for obvious reasons. This is my second year on the Yavneh board and I am so excited to be working with such a wonderful and skilled group of people!! Feel free to contact me here!

​​Jake Spitzer

SHABBAT/SOCIAL CHAIR

Hi! My name is Jake Spitzer. I'm a second year from New Jersey and I'm majoring in Economics but I'm also on the pre-med track. My favorite hobbies include playing board games, talking about my pet chickens, and having heated arguments about things that don't matter. As Shabbos Chair, I'm super excited to implement new ideas to make Shabbos more enjoyable for everyone! If you're interested in visiting for Shabbos, or otherwise would like to chat, please contact me here.​

Andrew Spielfogel

COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR

Hi, I’m Andrew, a first-year student from Manhattan studying Economics. I love spending my free time outdoors, no matter the weather. On any given day you will probably find me running along Lake Michigan, sitting on the quad, working in Woodlawn lounge, or on my way to go climbing downtown. My favorite part about Yavneh is how close and welcoming everyone is, and I’m super excited to be a part of a great team on the board! Feel free to contact me here.

​Rob Rosen

GABBAI RISHON

Hi, I’m Rob Rosen, a first-year born and raised in sunny Los Angeles, California. I’m honored to be serving as gabbai rishon and helping perpetuate the Yavneh minyan’s minhagim, including the emerging minhag of having gabbaim with “Rosen” as some part of their last name. I look forward to cultivating, alongside our esteemed gabbai sheini, a serious yet welcoming tefillah atmosphere! Please reach out to me here with any questions, davening-related or otherwise.

Naomi Elkin

VICE PRESIDENT

Hi! My name is Naomi and I'm a first-year from Teaneck, New Jersey hoping to double major in Chemistry and Creative Writing. In my rare free time, I love getting coffee around campus, scrapbooking, and taking accidental naps in Hillel. When I'm not making random dinners at upperclassmen’s apartments, I can be found having the time of my life in the official humanities Friendship course (for 0 credits) or sunning on the quad with Andrew if it's nice out! I am super excited (see what I did there?) to be a part of the new Yavneh board. If you want to challenge me to anagrams, contact me here!

Eliana Bunim

TREASURER

Hi! My name is Eliana and I’m a first-year from New Rochelle, New York studying Economics and Political Science (or maybe Religious Studies). In my free time I love reading, drawing and all things fashion (especially shopping for coats). You’ll usually find me running off to some business club meeting or discussing anything finance. I love that Yavneh provides a home away from home and I am so excited to join the board. If you are interested in donating to Yavneh or want to ask ANY questions, contact me here!

Ilan Weiner

TORAH CHAIR

Hey! I’m Jake and I'm a second-year studying History and Computer Science from White Plains, New York. When I’m not working tirelessly marking sure this community is doing its part to make it into olam haba, I enjoy spending time outdoors, and traveling the world. Last summer, I climbed Mt. Vesuvius and the leaning tower of Pisa in the same day! I’m incredibly honored and excited to carry on the legacy of our amazing Torah chairs past, and if you are having trouble deciding what mishmar topic is right for you, or where to eat in Israel, click here!

Akiva Davis

GABBAI SHEINI

Hi, my name is Akiva Davis, and I’m a third-year Math and Physics major. When I’m not discussing the similarities between golden-age mathematicians and ancient halachic commentators, I enjoy playing table tennis, listening to classical music, and playing piano. You can find me working in Hillel, the Reg, Harper, or basically any classroom that’s not currently being used. I also enjoy cooking and eating Jewish foods, particularly cholent, schnitzel, and sushi. 
Contact me here!