— Relentless Optimist — Do-er — Musician —
Zac Gondelman is an educator, song leader, activist, and do-er based in Boston, MA. A student at Brandeis University, Zac believes deeply in the power music has to create change. Zac is involved in all aspects of Jewish community life and served as the Temple Beth Elohim Student Intern. Zac believes in creating a welcoming, uplifting, and youthful space for prayer and discussion. Thirteen years ago, Zac began training at the New England Conservatory of Music. Zac is a classically trained musician and was named one of 20 Jewish Stars in North America by Jewish Rock Radio. He is passionate about diversity and active in student leadership. In 2022, Zac graduated with distinction from Thayer Academy as a Global Scholar. At Thayer, Zac served as President of OMEGA - the Academy’s diversity club, and Co-Founder and President of the QUEST Student-Teacher Fellowship: A fellowship for students interested in peer-taught LGBTQ+ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion education. In 2019, he was awarded the Faculty Prize. Upon graduation, Zac was awarded the school’s highest honor—the Head of School’s Award for his contribution to the Academy’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging initiatives. At Brandeis University, he serves as the BaRuCh (Brandeis Reform Chavurah) T’filah coordinator. Whether it’s workshops, campfires, lectures, or song sessions, Zac feels fortunate to be a part of many tight-knit communities. Zac loves keeping his finger on the pulse of the music scene, exploring new places, baking French desserts, playing with his dog, and making music.