Everett Gendler

Everett Gendler was a prominent American rabbi who dedicated his life to promoting progressive values and social justice. Born in 1928, he became a key figure in various movements, including the civil rights movement and the advancement of Jewish nonviolence. His commitment to egalitarianism also led him to play a significant role in the Jewish Havurah movement, which sought to create a more inclusive and participatory form of Jewish worship and community.

Gendler's leadership extended to the academic realm, where he served as the first Jewish Chaplain at Phillips Academy in Andover from 1978 to 1995. Throughout his career, he was driven by a passion for promoting environmental awareness and responsibility within the Jewish community, earning him the distinction as the "father of Jewish environmentalism." Gendler passed away in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of tireless advocacy and dedication to creating a more just and compassionate world.