Meet the Hechts
The Hechts moved to Connecticut’s beautiful Naugatuck Valley with a shared dream: to build a welcoming, vibrant Jewish community right here in Oxford where every Jew feels at home, connected, and proud of their identity.
Whether you're looking for an engaging holiday event, a lively Shabbat dinner, or a deeper dive into Torah and Jewish learning, you’ve come to the right place.
Rabbi Shmaya grew up in nearby Orange, CT. His journey in Jewish leadership took him through yeshiva studies in Baltimore and Los Angeles, and culminated with his rabbinic ordination in New York City. Along the way, he brought Jewish warmth and inspiration to far-flung communities in Vietnam, Brazil, Belgium, and Scotland. Rabbi Shmaya never turns down a chance to jam on the guitar or spark a meaningful conversation.
Hadassa grew up in Toronto and, after high school, spent a year studying in Israel. She has devoted years to Jewish education, teaching in Toronto, New York, and currently at Southern CT Hebrew Academy in Orange, CT. Hadassa is passionate about education, wellness, and personal relationships, and she’s always ready with a warm smile and a good story.
Together, Rabbi Shmaya and Hadassa bring a blend of experience, passion, and joyful energy to Chabad Jewish Center of Oxford.
Reach out if you have a question, want to connect, or just want to talk Jewish life over a coffee.