The Reporter is starting a new feature called “Community Spotlight” highlighting community members and finding out more about them. If you want to be among the participants, e-mail treporter@aol.com.
First up is Jewish Community Center Chief Operating Officer Raychel Reilly.
1. What is your hometown?
Paramus, New Jersey
2. What is your earliest Jewish memory?
It is hard to say exactly which came first, but I have wonderful memories of celebrating holidays at my grandparents’ house, going to preschool at a JCC, or resting my head on my grandma’s shoulder in synagogue listening to her sing.
3. What is your favorite Jewish food or dessert?
This is a hard one, because I have a lot of answers for this. I am a big fan of matzoh ball soup. My whole family adds the “mini mandel,” which we have all referred to as “crunchies” for as long as I can remember.” Now the kids in our family ask for “crunchies” anytime we have soup, which feels like a perfect little piece of tradition being passed down.
I actually asked my family what they think my favorite Jewish food is, and they unanimously said brisket. So, it seems the official answer might be brisket… but in my heart, it’s probably both.
4. What is your favorite Jewish holiday?
Passover, with Purim as a close second. I have such amazing memories of large seders with family and friends, and am now trying to create that same magic for my children.
Every seder had its own unique vibe, but all would be filled with laughter, tradition and, of course, lots of off-key singing. I fondly remember my grandpa Bert being asleep at the head of the table (because on this night we recline, of course... and he was 80) and then suddenly pop awake and bang on the table yelling “dayenu.”
Last year, we hosted 42 people between the two nights at our home here, and it was wonderful to share some of our family traditions with new friends. Over the years, I’ve collected Passover parody songs that are laminated and tucked into the back of the haggadah. Favorites include “Sweet Kosher Wine” (to the tune of “Sweet Caroline”) and “Take the Jews Out of Egypt” (to the tune of “Take Me Out to the Ballgame”). I’m always happy to pass the collection along to anyone who wants to add a little extra joy to their seder table.
5. What has been the biggest influence on your Jewish identity?
The biggest influence on my Jewish identity has been visiting Israel. I’ve been fortunate to go 13 times and each trip has deepened my connection in a new way. Being in Israel makes me feel like I am both at peace, and part of something greater. Walking through Jerusalem, standing at the Kotel, and experiencing Shabbat when an entire country pauses reminds me that Judaism is not just a religion – it’s a people, a culture and a living history.
Growing up, I always felt that you had to be religious to be Jewish and would refer to myself as a “bad Jew” because I didn’t keep kosher or observe Shabbat. Israel helped me see that Jewish identity isn’t just about religion; it’s about peoplehood, resilience, culture and continuity. Going 13 times has allowed that connection to grow roots. Each visit strengthened my pride, broadened my perspective and reminded me why being part of the Jewish story matters so much to me.
6. Do you have any children and/or pets?
Both of my children are with me at the J every day, enrolled in our exceptional early childhood program. My son, Jack, who will be 4 soon, proudly considers himself the “mayor” of the JCC. My daughter, Noa, is 7 months old and part of our infant program.
It brings me tremendous peace and gratitude to know how deeply cared for they are here. They are not only nurtured and supported, but truly thriving – surrounded each day by a community that feels like family.
7. What are your hobbies?
Spending time with family, traveling, hiking, playing and watching sports, and I absolutely love to read. I am really working on getting myself back to the pickleball courts, but may need a nudge.
8. What makes you happy?
Spreading happiness by bringing people together. I’ve always loved connecting people and watching joy unfold because of it. Whether it’s actual matchmaking (yes, I can take credit for a few weddings!), introducing friends who I think will really click, or hosting a big event, I genuinely love creating spaces where people feel connected.
It’s especially important to me that no one ever feels excluded. Creating environments where everyone feels welcomed, included and part of something bigger is what truly makes me happy, and it’s one of the biggest reasons I love my job at the J so much.
9. What do you like most about living in Binghamton?
The people. We intentionally chose Vestal because of the community here. We were looking for strong public schools and, even more importantly, a place filled with good people. Of course we hope our children grow up to be smart and athletic – but above all, we want them to be good humans.
We see that happening every day, through the culture of kindness at the JCC and throughout the greater community. We’ve lived in cities with immense wealth, but what stands out here is something far more meaningful. People may not always have much, but they will give you the shirt off their back if you need it. There is a genuine generosity of spirit here that is both humbling and wonderful.
10. Anything else you would like to share?
Fun fact, I am a triplet! My brother Matt, sister Jess, and I all went to preschool at a JCC in New Jersey. They are both coming to visit with their families for the JCC’s Purim Carnival this year!