Dan Soschin, a South Tampa resident since 2014, currently serves as president of the Board. He and his wife, Sydney, are proud Hillel parents of two, active members of the local Jewish community including congregation Schaarai Zedek, and own The Pilates Krewe.

Dan Berman, alumni parent with 30 years in Florida nonprofits, is Senior Director of Development at MacDonald Training Center. He holds degrees from Rutgers, USC, and HUC-JIR. Dan and his wife Wendy are active community members exploring empty-nester life.

Gabe De Mayo, father of two Hillel students and South Tampa resident, brings 30+ years in technology. A Hebrew Academy of Panama alum, he serves on Hillel’s Board, leads integrations at Colliers, and actively volunteers in the Jewish community.

Mical Solomon, Acting CISO at Port Authority NY & NJ, brings 20+ years in cybersecurity and teaching. A proud Hillel alum from a founding family, his children and grandchildren also attend Hillel. He holds degrees in education and cybersecurity.

Carolyn, a USF alum and former IBM sales leader, served as Hillel Academy Board President (2020–2025). She has three sons, two of whom are alumni, while the third is currently attending. She is actively involved in Congregation Kol Ami and also dedicates her time to Jewish engagement and community building in the Tampa Bay Area.

Bryan Buffinton, a Tampa resident since 2007, is a Boston College graduate and founder of Better Balance Financial. He serves as Treasurer on Hillel Academy’s Board. His children, Bennett and Emma, thrive in Hillel’s nurturing community.

Robyn Jacobson, pediatrician and founder of Jacobson Pediatrics, advised Hillel’s board during COVID. Married to Noah, with three Hillel graduate daughters, she grew up in South Florida, attended Tufts and University of Florida, and has lived in Tampa 25+ years.

Raquel Sacal, marketing product manager at E.W. Scripps, was born in Mexico and raised in South Florida with a strong Jewish foundation. A University of Tampa graduate and leadership alum, she’s engaged and committed to Tampa’s Jewish community.

Stephen Viders, Hillel alumnus and parent, is a JetBlue Captain and aviation consultant. A longtime Tampa resident and volunteer with Hillsborough Sheriff’s office, he and his wife Robin are active members of Rodeph Shalom synagogue.

Melinda, Tampa JCC and Federation liaison to Hillel and alumni parent, is a CPA and longtime volunteer. Honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award, she mentors youth and served 22 years as Trustee at Congregation Schaarai Zedek.

Dr. Fern Aefsky, with 35+ years in education and leadership, specializes in system change and inclusive education. She serves on Hillel Academy’s Governance Committee, teaches graduate courses, and helps secure grants to support the school’s mission.

Steven Shapiro, transactional attorney and shareholder at Gunster, is a Hope Cohen Barnett Leadership Institute alum. A graduate of the University of Miami and Georgetown Law, Steven has two children who attend Hillel Academy.

Yoni, a Hillel Academy graduate and University of Florida and Miami Law alumnus, is an attorney at Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick. A Hope Cohen Barnett Leadership graduate, he lives in South Tampa with his fiancé and supports Jewish education.

For 20 years at Hillel Academy, I’ve inspired students to explore boldly and develop lifelong learning. As Head of School, I champion curiosity, perseverance, and growth, valuing both academic excellence and the joy of discovery.