Board Member Profile: Stephanie Wexler

With Eric Bressler

Thank you for serving on Bet Shalom’s Board of Trustees, Stephanie! 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.

I grew up attending Bet Shalom, so the synagogue has always been a central part of my life and community. Some of my earliest Jewish memories are from the old building.

Minnesota has always been home, and my husband and I are raising our two children here. It’s been especially meaningful to experience Bet Shalom now through the eyes of a parent and to see my own children build their Jewish identities and friendships here. Because I grew up at Bet Shalom, there was never really a moment of “joining” in the traditional sense—it has always felt like home, and now it’s a home for my family, too.

And your professional life?

I work in regulatory compliance for a health insurance company. I enjoy the balance of problem-solving, attention to detail, and navigating complex requirements while helping things run smoothly and responsibly. It’s a field that requires strong communication, thoughtful decision making, and the ability to see the bigger picture—all skills that also carry over into my volunteer and leadership roles at Bet Shalom.

Tell us about your previous involvement at Bet Shalom.

Over the years my involvement at Bet Shalom has continued to grow in meaningful ways. Participating in the Leadership Development Program was a turning point. It gave me a deeper understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing our congregation and helped me think more broadly about leadership and the future of synagogue life. Since then I’ve become more deeply involved with the Youth Engagement Committee, and I currently serve as Chair. That role has been especially meaningful because it allows me to help create opportunities for connection, engagement, and belonging for our children, teens, and families. I’ve also appreciated opportunities for adult learning and reflection, including participating in Mussar, which has added another meaningful dimension to my connection with the congregation.

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

Serving on the Board has been both exciting and rewarding. It feels like a natural extension of the Leadership Development Program and my work with Youth Engagement. The experience has given me an even greater appreciation for the thoughtful decision making, planning, and care that go into sustaining a strong synagogue community. I’ve valued the opportunities to learn from fellow leaders, contribute to important conversations, and help think about how we continue to support Bet Shalom’s future.

What do you do in your spare time?

I’m usually busy with family life—from cheering on my kids at their activities to spending time with friends and family. Like many parents, a lot of my “spare time” revolves around carpools, practices, and events, but I truly enjoy being part of those everyday moments and staying connected to the things my kids love.

Favorite Jewish Holiday and foods?

My favorite Jewish holiday is Rosh Hashanah. I love the idea of a new year and the opportunity it brings for reflection, renewal, and fresh beginnings. There’s something especially meaningful about starting the year with intention and hope. As for Jewish foods, challah and matzah ball soup are definitely at the top of my list!

Final thoughts?

Bet Shalom has shaped so much of who I am—from growing up here, to now raising my children here, to serving in leadership roles within the congregation. I feel incredibly grateful for the opportunity to give back to a community that has meant so much to me throughout my life. I’m honored to serve on the Board of Trustees and excited to continue helping Bet Shalom grow and thrive for the next generation.