Leadership & Staff
Our Rabbi Julia Margolis in Residence
Rabbi Julia Margolis, who was born in Moscow, USSR, was raised in Israel as the daughter of her role model mother, Rabbi Elena.
At the age of 12, Rabbi Julia’s family made Aliyah to Israel, where she completed high school and served as an educational officer in the army (IDF). In 2000, after her release from the IDF, she earned a bachelor’s degree from Ben Gurion University in Jewish History, Islam, and Art. Rabbi then went on to complete her Masters’ degree in Jewish Studies. She was raised in a family with deep roots in the Reform movement – her mother was the first Russian-speaking female Rabbi in Israel.
Rabbi Julia was ordained by the Abraham Geiger College, Germany. She has worked in the Reform movement in Israel and has represented the Reform movement all over the world. Her involvement with the Reform movement in South Africa began in 2009, working in different synagogues and officiating at life cycle events in different parts of Africa until she opened her own Progressive Synagogue, Beit Luria, in which she followed her dreams. Rabbi Margolis served as the South African Association of Progressive Rabbis (SAAPR) Chairperson and Co-Chair of the South African Centre for Religious Equality and Diversity (SACRED).
Rabbi Margolis is a member of the Central Conference of American Rabbis. She lives in St. Thomas with her two wonderful daughters, Emily and Victoria, and was married to her late husband, Greg Z”L. She is excited to reinvigorate the Hebrew Congregation of St. Thomas.
Our Staff
Katherine Shegrud
Administrator
We are delighted to welcome Katherine Shegrud back to our synagogue community as our new Synagogue Administrator. Katherine previously served in this role for four years, and it truly feels like a homecoming.
After spending time in the States while welcoming new grandchildren into their family, Katherine and her husband, Steve, returned to St. Thomas five years ago and happily settled back into island life.
Both are deeply involved in the Rotary Club of St. Thomas East Eco, where Steve currently serves as President and Katherine as Treasurer.
As Katherine put it, “It feels like I never left, and it’s so good to be back!” We are excited to have her experience, warmth, and dedication rejoining our community.
Stella Minion
Life Cycle Event Coordinator
Stella has been working for the Synagogue since 2013 and has decided to step down as Administrator and focus solely on the Life Cycle Events, helping families with all aspects of Bar/Bat Mitzvah, Wedding planning, Renewal of Vows and Baby Naming, answering questions and making the families feel comfortable, supported and welcome.
After living in St. Thomas for 8 years, Stella works remotely from Columbia, Maryland, where she lives with her husband of over 40 years. Family is a very important part of her life, and now she lives close to 2 of her 3 children and 6 grandchildren.
Vincent Edwards
Building and Grounds Superintendent
Vincent brings a strong background in facilities support, housekeeping, logistics, and hands-on operations, with experience spanning roles in hospitality, medical receiving, and warehouse management.
We’re grateful to have him join our community and help care for our sacred space with pride and consistency.
Michelle Barnes
Administrative Assistant
Michelle Barnes joined the Hebrew Congregation in April 2021 as an Administrative Assistant, providing comprehensive support in both administrative and financial functions. Her responsibilities include managing payroll processes, ensuring accurate and timely payment of employees, and maintaining compliance with tax regulations.
Michelle is proficient in handling correspondence, drafting documents, and maintaining organized filing systems. Overall, Michelle is dedicated to ensuring the smooth operation of payroll and tax processes, contributing to the overall success of the Synagogue.
Luba Dolgopolsky
Accompanist & Gift Shop Manager
Luba Dolgopolsky has been a full-time resident of the Virgin Islands since 2008. Prior to living in the VI, Luba performed as a jazz singer in NYC, which is the city she called home for 17 years.
Our Board of Trustees:
- President – Marilyn Blackhall
- Vice President – Carol Rich
- Treasurer – Lou Minion
- Secretary – Penny Feuerzeig
- Immediate Past President – Dorothy Isaacs
- Trustees – Nancy Borowick, Alan Friedman, Liza Margolis, Donald Pomeranz, Barbara Pomerantz, Trudie Prior, Peter Rosen
- Congregational Staff – Rabbi: Julia Margolis, Administrator: Katherine Shegrud, Lifecycle Coordinator: Stella Minion, Admin Assistant: Michelle Barnes, Custodian: Doron Angol, Gift Shop Manager: Luba Dolgopolsky
Past Presidents of the Congregations
(from 1966):
Dorothy Isaacs
Jeffrey Silverman
Donald Pomeranz
Carol Moore
Greg Ebenholz
Penny Feuerzeig
Helen M. Goldman
Katina E. Coulianos
Trudie Prior
Jeannette Allis Bastian
Donald Pomeranz
Andrea Weibel
Marilyn Blackhall
Ben Posner
Monroe R Abrams
Sidney S Hertz
Ralph M. Paiewonsky
Norman Scherman
Hey Roth
David Puritz
David Rosen
Morris F. DeCastro