Rabbi Aaron Portman

Aaron Portman was born and raised a 6th-generation Columbusite, where he attended Columbus Torah Academy through 12th grade. Following a year of study at Yeshivat HaKotel in Jerusalem, Aaron attended Yeshiva University where he received his BA in English Literature. Aaron spent his summers at Camp Stone, as a camper and on staff, where he ultimately served as Rosh Moshava (Head of Camp) for two years. After graduating, Aaron participated in Avodah, where he worked at Footsteps, an organization that serves individuals transitioning out of the Haredi community and entering the modern world. Encouraged by his work with individuals who were hurt or alienated by religious life, Aaron felt drawn towards the rabbinate, hoping to bring a sensitive and welcoming perspective to Jewish leadership. Aaron attended YCT as a Wexner Fellow, and was ordained in 2021. While in rabbinical school, Aaron served as a prison chaplain, worked at an interfaith Sunday school, and taught as an adjunct Jewish Studies professor at City College. Aaron also had the opportunity to intern at NYU Hillel. Following his ordination, Aaron participated in the Dorot Fellowship in Israel, where he explored inter-religious dialogue and peace-building. Most recently, Aaron worked as a Chaplain Resident at the OSU Wexner Medical Center. Aaron and his wife Dena live on campus, where she is a medical student at OSU.