Rabbi Tick Brill - Named Senior Rabbi at Congregation Sukkat Shalom

Rabbi Allison Tick Brill will become Senior Rabbi of Congregation Sukkat Shalom in July 2026.

Since joining the congregation in 2022, she has come to embody the heart of Sukkat Shalom; cultivating a community rooted in belonging, pastoral care, creative ritual, and a Judaism that invites every person fully into sacred life.

Ordained in 2014 by Hebrew Union College: Jewish Institute of Religion, Rabbi Tick Brill holds a master’s degree in Hebrew literature and is a graduate of the University of Rochester, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in clinical and social psychology. Her scholarship is grounded in Torah and Jewish tradition, with a particular passion for how sacred texts evolve to meet the spiritual needs of each generation. Her rabbinic thesis explored the shifting portrayal of Esther across Jewish sources and contemporary expression.

Before coming to Sukkat Shalom, Rabbi Tick Brill served as assistant and associate rabbi at Congregation Emanu-El of the City of New York, one of the flagship congregations of American Reform Judaism. As one of three rabbis serving more than 2,200 families, she focused on relational leadership, preaching, and innovative programming. Her work included leading young adult engagement, developing leadership structures, directing conversion and Exploring Judaism programs, and co-founding a Jewish–Muslim dialogue initiative.

A trained multifaith hospital chaplain, Rabbi Tick Brill completed a year-long pastoral care residency at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, serving patients and families in critical care and end-of-life settings. This formation continues to shape her pastoral approach that is grounded in deep listening, presence, and compassionate accompaniment through life’s most tender moments.

At Sukkat Shalom, Rabbi Tick Brill is known for translating care into action. She helps individuals and families move from the periphery toward deeper connection through personal relationships, thoughtful programming, and meaningful Jewish learning and ritual. She values collaborative leadership and believes that congregants are essential partners in shaping a vibrant, welcoming community.

Deeply inspired by Sukkat Shalom’s first thirty years, especially its founding vision of openness, warmth, and courage, Rabbi Tick Brill feels profound gratitude for the community she has come to love and call home. As the congregation enters its next chapter, she is excited to help guide Sukkat Shalom forward so it continues to be a shelter of peace where every person feels they belong.

Rabbi Tick Brill grew up in Deerfield, Illinois, and lives in Highland Park with her husband, David, and their children, Melvin, Marjorie, and Eve.