Steve Allen has served as Executive Director of Congregation B’nai Israel since 2015, bringing decades of experience in synagogue administration. His career began at Temple Shaaray Tefila in Bedford, New York, a vibrant Reform congregation of over 1,000 families, where he dedicated 10 years to managing its operations.
In 2010, Steve relocated to Florida, working in Miami and Parkland before joining CBI. With a deep commitment to the synagogue’s success, he oversees daily operations, school administration, and financial management, ensuring the congregation’s continued stability and growth. His expertise extends beyond CBI — he collaborates closely with the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), serving as an assessment manager and board facilitator to support other congregations.
Steve earned a B.A. in History from New York University, complemented by a minor in Psychology. He and his wife, Debbie, cherish their three children — Matt (Marie), Jon (Heather), and Rachel — as well as their five beloved grandchildren: Jackson, twins Michaela Rose & Thomas Buddy, James, and Noah.
Myriam is the Interim Religious School Director at Congregation B’nai Israel in Boca Raton, FL, and is currently pursuing an Executive Master’s in Jewish Educational Leadership at Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion, expected to graduate in May 2026.
A Maryland native, she holds a B.A. in Advertising and Public Relations from Lynn University. Myriam brings a strong background in Jewish youth engagement, with experience at Habonim Dror Camp Moshava, BBYO, USY, and Hillel. She has worked in both public relations and Jewish education, including roles as a MASA Israel Teaching Fellow in Petach Tikvah, Isreal and leadership positions at Temple Beth Avodah in Newton Massachusetts and Crane Lake Camp in the Berkshires.
Myriam is a graduate of several leadership programs, including YP 101, CLASP, and Birthright Fellows. She enjoys yoga, outdoor adventures, and exploring new cultures – often accompanied by her Chihuahua, Bibi.
Michelle Gross brings over two decades of experience in early childhood education, research, and community program development. She previously served as Early Childhood Director at the Memphis Jewish Community Center and held multiple academic and research roles at the University of Miami. She now joins Congregation B’nai Israel as Director of Early Childhood Education, bringing deep expertise, warmth, and a passion for nurturing young learners.
