About Us

JSOI is a seminary that focuses on nurturing the next generation. We are committed to the Rebbe’s vision of creating leaders and we have modeled our curriculum both in and out of the classroom on this premise. There is no better way to become a great leader than to connect with our Rebbe, the greatest leader of our time, through his own writings, teachings, and stories.

Jean Schottenstein was a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother to an entire generation of chassidim of The Rebbe (her descendants include Schottensteins, Wuenschs, Rubashkins, Pinsons, Levitins, Gutnicks, Marinovskys, Sirotas, Engelsons). She was an active co-founder of numerous Jewish institutions in Columbus, Ohio and along with her husband Leon, businessman and philanthropist, they were instrumental in bringing Yiddishkeit to a then-fledgling Jewish community. A key charitable endeavor of Mrs. Schottenstein was partnering with the Rebbe’s special fund, Machne Israel. She was known for her witty personality and sharp sense of humor. She loved traveling, seeing the world, and had a unique appreciation for authentic beauty. Mrs. Schottenstein selflessly devoted herself to Jewish causes and set the foundation for the blossoming of many Jewish schools and communities.

Our seminary bears her name as a testimony to her value of Jewish learning and continuity. Her children continue her legacy of supporting Jewish causes through the David & Eda Schottenstein Foundation as well as the Saul foundation.

Leah Bastomski, Director and Founder

My vision in creating this seminary is to facilitate a growing environment where Chabad girls of today recognize the gift of Torah and Chassidus and learn how to use it to enhance every aspect of their life. Once we recognize that the Torah is relevant to everyone in every situation I believe we have discovered a key to living a life full of success and meaning. My hope for the girls that leave this seminary is that they go out into the world, proud of who they are, and discover new ways to infuse their G-dly spark into everything and everyone they come in contact with.

Mrs. Itty Wuensch, Director and Founder

Finally, we are bringing the seminary we dreamed about to fruition! Time to make it your own. Everyone comes to a point in their life where they can either choose to live meaningfully and purposefully or try to fill that void with illusions of happiness and success. My vision in creating this seminary is that the students will realize the powerhouses they are and act upon that without letting anything stop them! With a clear goal in mind of fulfilling the mission of Hashem, we can never lose sight of where we are going. Truly understanding that each of us is an integral piece in uplifting and elevating this world will give the motivation and clarity to never give up and know your worth. I hope not only to impact the students but to be an example to many more students and teachers beyond our seminary walls.

Mrs. Henya Burton, Principal

Mrs. Henya Burton has been involved in the world of Jewish education both in the classroom and in administrative positions for over 20 years. She is honored to work with the amazing students and staff at Oryah as she focuses her energy, creativity and vast experience in ensuring students have an incredibly growth-oriented year that will build their foundation for life. Mrs. Burton lives in Har Nof with her husband--therapist and author, Rabbi Tani Burton, and their 6 children. Mrs. Burton can be reached at henya@oryah.org.

Mrs. Rivka Chanin, Program Coordinator

Rivka Chanin, a dedicated program coordinator of a girls' seminary, wears many hats with grace. With 25 years of educational experience and raising her own 8 children in Israel, she embodies a deep commitment to nurturing young minds. Her mission is clear: to guide these girls on a spiritual journey that intertwines seamlessly with their identity as Lubavitchers. Rivka aims to foster a profound connection to Yiddishkeit and the Rebbe, instilling a sense of pride and unity. Through her guidance, being a chassid becomes an integral part of their very beings, not just a separate aspect. Her passion for personal growth shines, as she empowers these young women to embrace their talents, develop unwavering confidence, and flourish on their unique paths.

Mrs. Nechama Pevzner, Dorm Mother

I was always in love with the seminary energy. I feel it is such a crucial time where the girls are just starting to choose their path in life, and form themselves as responsible adults about to carry out their education and put it into practice. I feel very strongly about that particular age and find that’s where my fire and passion is. I’ve worked as a dorm mother in Seminary Chaya Mushka in Montreal as well as in Mayanot Israel. I’m very much looking forward to taking care of the girls to ensure that they gain the most from their seminary year.

I knew Oryah was the place for me because of the basic values this Institute is based upon: personalized, foundational, and experience-based growth. The staff and teachers at Oryah truly care about your success. The growth you find at Oryah will stay with you forever, because it is rooted in your decision to improve. Oryah is all about your growth, and working together as a family to help each other reach that.