Debby Rapps is a highly experienced Jewish educator and administrator with a reputation for vision and warm leadership. Debby has been affiliated with the JYEP since its inception in 1986 and has served as its director for 30 years. Debby earned her BA in Open Education and Jewish Studies from Queens College, CUNY, and her MA in Educational Psychology from Teacher's College, Columbia University. She earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from the Azrieli School of Education and Administration, Yeshiva University. Debby and her husband have four sons, three of whom live in Israel and one in Teaneck, NJ. Debby believes in offering a Jewish education in a warm and nurturing environment, in which each child is valued and where they leave wanting to further their Jewish education beyond their Bar and Bat Mitzvahs. Debby infuses the JYEP with a joy and passion for Judaism coupled with a commitment to Jewish education, spirituality and continuity.