Who We Are…
Rabbi Elliott Kleinman, DD, RJE
Senior Consultant
Rabbi Elliott Kleinman is a trusted advisor and guide to synagogues and Jewish nonprofit organizations, bringing over 30 years of experience in the Jewish communal sector. As a Senior Consultant at Pondside Partners, Rabbi Kleinman leverages his deep expertise in leadership development, strategic planning, and organizational growth to help mission-driven organizations achieve their goals and navigate transitions with confidence.
Throughout his distinguished career, Rabbi Kleinman has been dedicated to supporting synagogues in building vibrant, sustainable communities. In his role as Chief Program Officer for the Union for Reform Judaism, he provided strategic oversight for leadership development and program initiatives across more than 900 congregations. He guided synagogues through leadership transitions, strengthened board governance, and built strategic partnerships, empowering them to thrive in an ever-evolving landscape.
As Chief Engagement Officer at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Kleinman revitalized fundraising strategies and donor engagement, directly benefiting synagogues and Jewish organizations. His hands-on, culturally sensitive approach helps organizations align their missions with actionable strategies for sustainable growth.
Rabbi Kleinman’s areas of expertise include succession planning, leadership coaching, crisis management, and community engagement. Whether advising on strategic visioning or facilitating leadership transitions, he is known for inspiring leaders, strengthening teams, and fostering meaningful connections within communities.
In addition to his consulting work, Rabbi Kleinman is an accomplished scholar, educator, and published author on topics of Jewish leadership and community building. He holds a Master of Public Service Administration from DePaul University and a Master of Education from Xavier University, alongside rabbinic ordination from Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. Fluent in Hebrew, he continues to serve as a part-time rabbi and scholar-in-residence, enriching congregations with both spiritual guidance and practical insights.
Rabbi Kleinman’s relationship-driven approach at Pondside Partners ensures synagogues and nonprofits are equipped to meet contemporary challenges while staying true to their core values. His commitment to integrity, innovation, and lasting impact makes him a valued partner for organizations seeking to build stronger, more resilient communities.
Rabbi Eve Rudin, RJE
Consultant
Rabbi Eve Rudin is a dynamic leader and educator with extensive experience in Jewish communal life, experiential education, and organizational development. As a Consultant at Pondside Partners, she brings deep expertise in youth engagement, leadership development, and congregational strategy, helping synagogues and nonprofit organizations thrive through thoughtful guidance and innovative solutions.
Rabbi Rudin also serves as the Director of Learning, Families, and Youth at Larchmont Temple in Larchmont, NY. Prior to that, Rabbi Rudin served as the Director of the Congregational School at Park Avenue Synagogue in New York City, where she led strategic initiatives to strengthen Jewish education and community engagement. She previously served as Director of Camp Excellence and Advancement at the Foundation for Jewish Camp, where she helped enhance the impact and effectiveness of Jewish camping nationwide. Additionally, she held senior leadership roles at the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), serving as Director of NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth) and Director of the URJ Kutz Camp, where she mentored generations of young Jewish leaders.
A product of the Reform Jewish movement, Rabbi Rudin holds a B.A. in Near Eastern and Judaic Studies from Brandeis University and was awarded a Wexner Graduate Fellowship during her rabbinic studies at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR), where she was ordained in 2000. Her academic work focused on youth movements and Jewish camping, and she has been a sought-after speaker at conferences on experiential Jewish education, faith development, and mentorship.
At Pondside Partners, Rabbi Rudin provides strategic consulting, leadership coaching, and program development expertise, helping synagogues and nonprofits navigate transitions, enhance engagement, and build sustainable frameworks for success. With a passion for strengthening Jewish life and empowering leaders, she is a trusted partner for organizations seeking to deepen their impact and inspire the next generation.