Bios

Avima Rudavsky Darnov

Avima Rudavsky Darnov was raised in a Hebrew speaking home in Massachusetts. Her father, who served as a conservative rabbi for over 60 years, and her mother, who was born in Jerusalem were brought together by their mutual love of Hebrew language and Judaism. They named their 4 children with unique Hebrew names, including the name “Avima” which is a contraction of the words “Abba” (father) and “Ema” (mother). They raised their children in a Hebrew speaking home, filled with Jewish literature and music. Their love for Hebrew language, culture and Judaism led Cantor Darnov to pursue the Cantorate which brought together her talents and love for teaching, singing, Jewish music, Hebrew and Judaism. She was invested as Cantor by The Cantors Institute of The Jewish Theological Institute and holds a Masters of Arts with a concentration in education from the graduate school of The Jewish Theological Seminary. She has served as a Cantor for over twenty years and has taught hundreds of students of all ages. Children and adults praise her warm, patient, enthusiastic and open teaching style. In addition to her musical and educational pursuits, Avima Rudavsky Darnov is a weaver who sells hand-woven tallitot through her business: “The Tallit Corner”.

Allen Darnov Ph. D

Allen Darnov was raised in Southern California. His experiences in Camp Hess Kramer and Gindling Hilltop Camp and later his involvement with the Jewish Union at UCLA inspired him to pursue a career in the rabbinate. He lived in Israel for two years during his College and Rabbinical studies. He has served the Reform rabbinate for over twenty years. He shares with Avima a love for Hebrew Language and he just recently earned a Ph.D. in the field of Hebrew Bible and Ancient Semitic Languages from the Graduate School of The Jewish Theological Seminary. He has served on the part time faculty of The Hebrew Union College, The Jewish Theological Seminary, The Academy of Jewish Religion and The New School. Whether he is teaching children or adults, Rabbi Darnov is beloved as a teacher for his dedication, sense of humor, clarity of communication, expertise in material and broad insight. He serves as Rabbi of Reform Temple of Putnam Valley in Putnam Valley, New York.