Alyssa Silva, Houston Hillel’s Assistant Executive Director, is a graduate from the University of Arizona, where she received her bachelor’s degree in Religious Studies with a minor in Judaic Studies. Prior to moving to Houston, Alyssa lived in DC, where she was a resident at Moishe House Columbia Heights, and a retreatology mentor/educator. After two years in that role, she moved to Jerusalem and received a certificate in Jewish Experiential Education from The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies. She is currently pursuing her masters degree in Jewish nonprofit Management at the Zelikow School of Jewish Nonprofit Management. Alyssa’s love of Jewish community building has grown over the years through her work with various Jewish nonprofit organizations including leadership and mentorship roles within the Jewish nonprofit world. She is knowledgeable in many areas, from experiential education, teaching Jewish text and Jewish ritual, and the logistics that go into creating your dream retreat! Alyssa has been there before, and knows the hard work and dedication that goes into planning a peer-led retreat, and is ready to be your cheerleader, Jewish guru, and guide every step of the way!