Biography of Rabbi Lawrence P. Seidman, Ph. D., A Rational Rabbi

I was born in Brooklyn, NY and have been active in the Jewish community all of my life. At twelve, I undertook my first leadership role as president and service officiant of the Junior Congregation at the Kings Highway Jewish Center. As I grew, my desire to pursue science and analysis lead me to a career in engineering.

My work in research and management encompassed communications, satellites, aerospace, wind energy, and telemedicine. I have earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from the Cooper Union, an M.S. in Electrical Engineering from New York University, and a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of California, Berkeley; I was elected to membership in the Engineering Honorary Society, Tau Beta Pi, and the Scientific Research Honorary Society, Sigma Xi. My papers have appeared in numerous technical journals and I’ve been awarded several patents. Because I am an effective public speaker as well as skilled in engineering and management, I have been sought after for presentations and have given addresses around the world, from London, England to Beijing, China, and from Kuopio, Finland to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Throughout my career, I have dedicated to Jewish practice and study.

I have served as a lay leader of minyans, Torah study groups, and the like at every congregation to which I have belonged and have continued to pursue both formal and informal Jewish education. A few years ago, I retired from my position as a Senior Manager in Phantom Works, the Research and Development organization of the Boeing Company. This allowed me the freedom to increase my engagement with Jewish activities.

My decision to study to be a Rabbi was motivated by a desire to use my analytical skills and innovation to serve the Jewish community on a professional level. While the last several years have been devoted to religious and spiritual studies, my scientific and management background still impacts my thoughts and actions.

I have been ordained as a Rabbi by the Academy for Jewish Religion – California and I am a member of the Southern California Board of Rabbis. My practice is dedicated to being a rational rabbi combining Jewish tradition with modern thought. This combination brings the treasures and joys of Judaism to the widest, most diverse population.

This innovative approach is implemented in all of my activities.  Click here for more on what I am doing now. 

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