Board Member Profile: Greg Helmer

Thank you for serving on Bet Shalom’s Board of Trustees, Greg! Let's help the congregation get to know you better with this interview. Please tell us about your family, your history in Minnesota, and when you joined Bet Shalom. 

Ari and Greg

I came from a suburb of Flint, Michigan. After completing medical school in Michigan and cardiology training in California, we moved to Minneapolis. I started going to Bet Shalom together with my senior partner Dr. Norman Chapel. That is truly when I made a personal connection with Bet Shalom and loved hearing the services led by Rabbi Cohen! 

Taylor and Greg in Israel

I have 4 beautiful children: Nicholas, Michael, Taylor and Ari. My youngest, Ari, had his bar mitzvah at Bet Shalom in October 2022.  My oldest, Nick, is a fighter pilot and test pilot for the Air Force.  Michael is an engineer in Detroit, Michigan. And Taylor just returned from living in Tel Aviv for 7 years and is moving to Brooklyn. 

And your professional life?

I work at Fairview as an interventional cardiologist. Most of my days are spent either putting stents into patients coronary arteries having a heart attack or putting new valves into patients needing a valve replacement or repair. My work can be very taxing but also incredibly rewarding. Getting to participate in patients' lives at this level is truly an honor and privilege. 

Tell us about your previous involvement at Bet Shalom.

I started getting more involved at Bet Shalom participating in the leadership development program of 2023-2024.  I helped Rabbi Thal as a captain for the synagogue to get votes for the World Zionist Congress Vote 2025.  Currently I am part of the Tikkun Olam Committee as well as the Card Group.  

Greg in the Bahamas with the boys

And now you’re on the Bet Shalom Board of Trustees. What has your experience been like?

I just became a board member in July, so I do not have much experience yet. But I’m excited to get further involved and contribute in any way I can. 

What do you do in your spare time?

Greg and his parents

I have many hobbies, just not enough time to do all of them! I love scuba diving, skiing, cycling, wake surfing, and especially going on fishing trips with my children and spending time with my family.  

Favorite Jewish Holiday?

My favorite Jewish holiday is probably Passover because of the tradition. But it really could be whatever holiday I am experiencing at the time.  

Final thoughts?

I am looking forward to meeting many more members of the congregation and helping to further develop our community at Bet Shalom.