Rabbi Shai Specht-Sandler
Rabbi Shai brings deep heart, uplifting music, and a passion for joyful, inclusive Jewish living to Southwest Orlando Jewish Congregation. With over two decades of experience as a rabbi, cantor, educator, and community builder, he is known for his warmth, authenticity, and for making Judaism feel personal, meaningful, and alive.
Born in Israel and raised in England, Rabbi Shai is a descendant of the Maharal of Prague. He holds a degree in Education from Prescott College. His rabbinic formation includes immersive yeshiva learning at Chofetz Chaim Yeshiva and study with Chabad teachers in Israel, alongside ongoing engagement with halacha, Jewish mysticism, and spiritual leadership. He received rabbinic ordination from Rabbinical Seminary International following years of dedicated Jewish study and spiritual training in New York.
A gifted communicator and musical soul, Rabbi Shai has served as both cantor and spiritual leader in congregations across the United States. As a student at King David High School in England, where Reb Shlomo Carlebach served as Artist-in-Residence, he had the opportunity to learn with him—an experience that continues to shape his musical and spiritual approach. His musical and spiritual approach has also been deeply influenced by the legacy of Debbie Friedman z”l.
As a Director of Education, he has built innovative programs and guided students and families through every stage of Jewish life—from early childhood through B’nai Mitzvah and beyond.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Rabbi Shai founded and led Or Ahavah Kehillah, a 500-member virtual community that gathered for spirited Shabbat services, holiday celebrations, and meaningful connection.
A published author and singer-songwriter, Rabbi Shai creates music and teaching that resonate across generations. He blends music, prayer, and storytelling to create rich, soul-centered Jewish experiences.
Now proud to call Orlando home, Rabbi Shai lives in Dr. Phillips with his husband Jeff and their beloved dog, Cooper. He is honored to serve as the Rabbi of SOJC.
Director of Youth Education
Jodi Abrache
Jodi Abrache has been a dedicated leader in the Central Florida Jewish community for over two decades, bringing a unique blend of organizational leadership, educational experience, and deep personal commitment to Jewish life.
She began her professional journey with The Walt Disney Company, where she developed strong skills in operations, leadership, and team building. In 2010, Jodi returned to her passion for education, working as an Early Childhood professional at both the Rosen JCC and later the Roth JCC, where she helped nurture young learners and support families at the very beginning of their Jewish journeys.
Jodi’s connection to SOJC runs deep. She has been an active member for over a decade, serving on the Board of Directors and as Co-Chair of the Education Committee. Her children grew up in the SOJC Religious School, giving her a meaningful, personal perspective on the life of the community.
Passionate about Jewish education, Jodi is committed to creating engaging, positive, and meaningful experiences for every child and family. She brings warmth, dedication, and a strong sense of purpose to her work, helping ensure that SOJC continues to be a place where children feel inspired, supported, and proud of their Jewish identity.
Youth Advisor
Victoria Cohen
Victoria Cohen is originally from Palm Beach Gardens where she attended Jewish day school from k-8th grade.
Relocating to Orlando she attended UCF where she obtained her BS in Exceptional Student Education.
She has worked as a special needs teacher at Olympia High School for the past 10 years and as the Camp Director for the Rosen JCC for the past 4 years.
Victoria spends her spare time teaching and practicing Taekwondo and planning her next beach trip. She is excited to be joining the SOJC community as the Youth Advisor!
Cantorial Soloist
Ginny Kolin
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Ginny has been a proud member of SOJC since 2006.
She began singing with our choir in 2015 and teaching in our religious school in 2020.
Learning to leyn and daven as an adult, Ginny brings a unique perspective to her role as a B'nai Mitzvah tutor, which she took on in 2023.
She has two wonderful children who participate in our youth programs.
Outside of the synagogue, she is a licensed pharmacist who loves reading, learning, and traveling with her husband and children.
Ginny is honored to be trusted as a messenger of this community and is dedicated to enriching the Jewish journeys of others.