CAYLEIGH ABEL

What was the best class you took in college?
I majored in human rights and completed an internship in Rwanda at the Genocide Memorial Centre Peace School in the capital, Kigali. It was an incredibly eye-opening experience. I fell in love with the people (some of the most forgiving, kind, and compassionate people I’ve ever come across). I loved the food, rich culture, and most of all the feeling of community there, even after such a horrific past.

What has been your most formative Jewish experience?
I was involved in a youth movement in Australia called Hineni. I participated in a year-long gap year in Israel with the movement, volunteering, learning, and spending the summer in Tel Aviv!

What were your favorite hobbies as a child?
I grew up in Auckland, New Zealand. Our house overlooked a beautiful forest, and I would spend weekends with my siblings building huts and exploring. I loved to do anything creative and adventurous, and my siblings and I would often create imaginative games and entertain ourselves for hours!

What do you most hope your students learn from you - other than the curriculum?
I’ve always been inspired by the quote “people before things.” This means valuing kindness, relationships, and empathy over possessions or achievements. I hope my students embody this by treating others with respect, putting compassion first, and building a community where everyone feels valued.