Award Recipients

June and Leonard Goldberg Teachers of the Year Award

Rabbi Eliezer Kessler

Rabbi Eliezer Kessler started his formal teaching career at RMBA five years ago, and has developed into a beloved faculty member. He runs a successful Talmudic studies program, edits the student-run weekly Judaic publication, and creates many interactive programs and games for students. Rabbi Kessler was recently awarded a grant from the Avi Chai Foundation for his work on bringing Shabbat to life for RMBA students. Rabbi Kessler is a tremendous asset to the school, embodying RMBA’s mission of daily Torah study integrated with modern life.

Debra Kira

A board certified teacher, Mrs. Kira teaches High School English, Middle School English, and Lower School Gifted Reading and Writing. After school, she is the drama coordinator, producing plays for the extra-curricular drama program. Just this year, she helped kick off the Gifted and Talented program for the Lower School, developing the scope and sequence for the literature component of the program. Mrs. Kira is a wonderful religious and academic role model for the students and parents in the school.

Distinguished Alumna/us Award

Roya Rahmanian Samuels MD FAAP

Dr. Samuels attended the Hebrew Academy from 2nd grade through graduation in 1995.  She attended Michlalah College for Women in Israel, Columbia University, and Albert Einstein School of Medicine. She recently completed her residency in Pediatrics and is currently an attending physician of General Pediatrics at Schneider Children’s Hospital in New York. Dr. Samuels is married to Michael Samuels and has three young children. Her proud parents are Parvin and David Rahmanian. RMBA is thrilled to have the opportunity to present this award to such an accomplished woman.

Dena and Baruch Brody Award for Dedicated Service

Nancy Beren and Larry Jefferson

Ms. Nancy Beren and Dr. Larry Jefferson are recipients of the Dena and Baruch Brody Award for Dedicated Service. Before, during and after sending their three children to RMBA, Ms. Beren and Dr. Jefferson have spent countless hours serving on the Boards of Directors and Education. Dr. Jefferson is currently on the Board of Directors and Ms. Beren is an Honorary President as well as a past president. Their commitment to both RMBA and the Houston Jewish community is inspiring to parents, students and volunteers.