TESTIMONIALS

“I have had the privilege of working with Miriam as a colleague for many wonderful years. Together we attended conferences, planned community educational events, studied Torah, and discussed curriculum. Miriam is a loyal friend and colleague who weaves Jewish values into every area of her life. She is a true mensch and I know that she will continue to succeed with whatever new path she chooses to follow.”—Sue Penn

“Miriam twice served as the President of the Jewish Educators’ Association of Orange County, and also as the treasurer. She is an Educator’s Educator and we are all her students. Her impact on our community is priceless and enduring.”—Robin Foonberg

“It was nearly thirty years ago, and I was new to the Orange County Jewish community. I was attending an evening event where I knew no one, and probably had that look of a lost lamb on my face. One person came up to me after reading my name tag and introduced herself. That person was Miriam Van Raalte. That moment best describes Miriam: a warm, friendly, and funny woman of valor who “welcomes the stranger” wherever she goes.” —Barry Koff

“I first met Miriam when she was a senior at Cal State, Fullerton. At the time, she was leading Hillel’s Israeli Dance Group, which I invited to enliven my congregation’s Oneg Shabbat. I was wowed then…and have remained so ever since.

Through the years, she and I have studied together, shared wonderful meetings, workshops and conferences together, and have enjoyed a meaningful friendship.

Miriam’s love of Judaism is infectious. She has inspired generations of students, teachers, fellow congregants, and members of the community. In so many ways, she has been the glue at Temple Beth Tikvah—helping to create a strong bond amongst the people.

She has been…and will remain…a great blessing to her family, her friends, her congregation, the Orange County Jewish Community, and the entire Jewish People.”—Rabbi Stephen Einstein

“Miriam has been my professional colleague and dear friend ever since we met at an Orange County Jewish Educators Association meeting thirty-two years ago. We have shared many study sessions, local workshops, leadership opportunities and national CAJE conferences through the years. Miriam is a true mensch and has given much to our Jewish community. I wish her many blessings as she moves forward on her next adventure.” —Linda R. Kirsch, RJE, MSJE