Clergy & Staff

Rabbi Lori Cohen

RabbiCohen@kolami.ca

Rabbi Lori Cohen brings warmth, wisdom, and a deep sense of purpose to Kol Ami. She believes in building a compassionate, spiritually enriching community where everyone feels seen and valued.

Ordained in 2000, Rabbi Lori’s journey to the rabbinate began with a career in education and youth support. She has since served in diverse roles – from spiritual care at a children’s hospital to leading congregations and teaching at Wilfrid Laurier University.

Her passion for storytelling – whether personal, historical, or Jewish – shapes her approach to leadership and connection. When she’s not teaching or guiding, you might find her hiking ancient trails, swimming in wild waters, or writing family stories to pass on to future generations.

She’d love to hear your story too.

Rabbi Micah Streiffer

Rabbi Emeritus
rabbistreiffer@gmail.com

Rabbi Micah Streiffer served as Kol Ami’s beloved rabbi from 2011 to 2023. Now Rabbi Emeritus, he continues to inspire as Director of LAASOK, a liberal Beit Midrash (house of study), and through his popular podcast, Seven Minute Torah.

A passionate teacher and lifelong learner, Rabbi Micah is pursuing a Ph.D. in Religious Studies at McMaster University and shares his insights in Jewish communities across North America.

Originally from Louisiana, Rabbi Micah was ordained in 2007 and made Canada his home in 2011. His legacy of learning and leadership continues to shape Kol Ami’s heart and soul.

Aron Katz

Cantorial Soloist
cantorialsoloist@kolami.ca

Aron’s passion for music and Jewish life began early – leading his first Kol Ami service at age 12 – and has only grown stronger. Over the years, he has served as a board member, youth advisor, B’nai Mitzvah tutor, and Hebrew school teacher, deeply connected to our community.

Beyond Kol Ami, Aron contributes to Reform Jewish life across the GTA, including work with URJ Camp George and UJA Federation.

A high school technology teacher with York Region District School Board, Aron enjoys family time on the ski slopes with his wife Jenn and their children, Hailey and Rory.

Marla Berns

Office Administrator
admin@kolami.ca

With 30 years in Financial Services, Marla brings expertise in operations, training, business development, and relationship management. She’s also deeply committed to community, volunteering with CHATS, Chai Tikvah, and Ezer Mitzion.

When not working or volunteering, Marla enjoys reading, traveling, and spending quality time with her husband and three children.

Ilana Glazenberg

Operations Manager
operationsmanager@kolami.ca

Ilana is a results-driven professional who excels in leading Contact Centres and enhancing customer experience. She’s passionate about boosting operational efficiency, building strong partnerships, and delivering successful, cost-effective projects.

Outside of work, Ilana enjoys family time, watching her daughter dance, cooking and baking, exploring beaches and roller coasters, and cuddling with her cats and dog.

Jennifer Katz

Educational Director
educator@kolami.ca

Jennifer Katz brings a lifelong passion for Jewish learning and Reform Jewish life to her role as Educational Director. Originally from Bedford, New Hampshire, Jenn’s foundation in Jewish education, youth groups, and summer camp deeply shaped her love for teaching.

After moving to Toronto in 2007, Jenn quickly became part of the local Jewish community – starting as a teacher in Kol Ami’s religious school. Now, returning to Kol Ami feels like a homecoming for Jenn, her husband Aron, and their children Hailey and Rory.

Jenn holds a Master’s in Religious Education from Hebrew Union College–JIR and is also a high school teacher with the York Region District School Board. With over 15 years in Jewish education, she is excited to inspire the next generation of learners at Kol Ami.

Adine Mintz

Choir Director
music@kolami.ca

Adine Mintz is thrilled to return to Kol Ami – this time as Choir Director. A former teen choir member under Annie Berlin and a founding member and past president of TAKAY, Adine brings deep roots and rich musical experience to the role.

With a Bachelor of Music Education and a Master’s in Conducting from the University of Toronto, Adine has spent over 30 years conducting choirs, orchestras, and operas. Her previous roles include Choir Director at Shaare Zion in Montreal and Musical Director for Zareinu in Toronto.

Today, she conducts and teaches with the Canadian Children’s Opera Company and offers private piano lessons. Adine is also the proud mom of two daughters and is excited to share her passion for Jewish music with the Kol Ami community.