Karen Soria

Karen Soria is a pioneering American-born rabbi who has broken ground in multiple countries. She made history in Australia by becoming the first woman to serve as a rabbi, joining Temple Beth Israel in Melbourne in the 1980s. This progressive Reform Jewish synagogue provided a platform for her to make a significant impact on the local community. Her achievements in Australia marked the beginning of a distinguished career that would span several countries and institutions.

Rabbi Soria's career has been characterized by a series of firsts, demonstrating her commitment to serving diverse communities. She went on to serve as a chaplain in the U.S. Marines and the U.S. Navy, achieving the distinction of being the first woman rabbi to do so in the Marines and the second in the Navy. Her experience and expertise later took her to Canada, where she became the first woman rabbi to serve as a chaplain with the Canadian Forces. Throughout her career, Rabbi Soria has remained dedicated to her faith and her work, inspiring others through her trailblazing achievements in the field of Judaism.