JBI Library, a Jewish organization that for nearly a century has been supporting individuals who are blind, have low vision or have print disabilities, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Michelle Shapiro Abraham as its new executive director, effective April 21. She succeeds Livia Thompson, who has led JBI since 2022, and is retiring after a nearly 40-year career in the Jewish nonprofit world.
Abraham brings more than 20 years of experience in Jewish communal leadership, inclusion and strategic innovation. Most recently, she served as CEO of the national nonprofit Gather Inc., leading efforts to create inclusive Jewish communities for young adults. Previously, as executive director of strategic innovation and program at the Union for Reform Judaism (URJ), she oversaw national teen engagement strategies and developed initiatives bridging Jewish camps and congregations. A passionate advocate for accessibility, she has worked to embed inclusion and belonging into her diverse roles within the Jewish community.
“JBI Library’s mission of ensuring that individuals with visual disabilities can fully engage in Jewish life is deeply personal to me,” said Abraham. “I am honored to lead this incredible organization as we build on its rich history and continue to expand opportunities for Jewish engagement, learning and connection. I look forward to working with the dedicated team at JBI to innovate and grow its vital services for the community.”
Thompson, who oversaw three years of intense growth at JBI, including an organizational rebrand, expanded outreach and services to patrons, partnership-building with fellow organizations and the implementation of an ambitious multiyear strategic plan, expressed certainty that JBI had found the right person to carry the organization into its next phase.
“With Michelle’s passion and vision, I know JBI Library is in excellent hands and poised for an exciting future,” said Thompson. “It has been a true privilege to serve JBI and work alongside a talented team dedicated to making Jewish literature, culture, and religious life accessible to all. I leave JBI confident that its mission will continue to thrive and evolve to meet the needs of generations to come.”
Barbara Saidel, co-chair of the JBI board of directors, added: “Michelle’s commitment to inclusion, innovation and community aligns perfectly with JBI’s mission. We are thrilled to welcome her as our new executive director and look forward to the impact she will make in the years ahead. Her leadership will ensure that JBI remains a beacon of accessibility and engagement for all who seek to connect with Jewish life.”
JBI Library has been a leader in accessibility for more than 90 years, providing individuals with visual disabilities access to Jewish books, liturgy and cultural resources in audio, large print and braille formats. It serves as a hub of community, providing a wide range of fully inclusive cultural and educational programming; actively cultivating partnerships with accessibility-focused, vision and Jewish organizations; and curating an ever-growing library, customized materials and personal services by librarians. With Abraham at the helm, JBI is poised to further its mission, expand its reach and deepen its impact.
To learn more, visit: www.jbilibrary.org or contact JBI’s librarians at 212-545-8025 or 1-800-433-1531.
Media Inquiries: Jessica Barist Cohen, Chatham Strategies, Jessicac@chatham-strategies.com.
