Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise

Rabbi Isaac Mayer Wise (1819-1897) was a prominent American Jewish leader and educator known for shaping Reform Judaism in the United States. He founded the Hebrew Union College in Cincinnati, which became the first Jewish seminary in the country, training rabbis and leaders. Wise advocated for a modern approach to Jewish practice, emphasizing ethical living and adapting traditions to fit contemporary society. His efforts helped establish Jewish communal life in America, and he played a key role in organizing the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, now known as the Union for Reform Judaism, which supports Reform congregations nationwide.