Leslie Alexander

Leslie Alexander became the first female rabbi of a major Conservative Jewish synagogue in the United States in 1986 at Adat Ari El synagogue in North Hollywood. She was chosen over five male candidates. She wanted to be a rabbi since she was 17, and was encouraged in her ambitions by her parents. Her first major job after being ordained was as director of adult activities and community education at the Jewish Community Centers in San Diego, where she also met her husband, Dr. Kenneth Atchison.