New York Jewish Agenda Appoints Rabbi Margo Hughes-Robinson as Executive Director
NEW YORK, NY — April 23, 2026 — New York Jewish Agenda (NYJA), an organization that advocates, organizes and convenes to promote the values of liberal Jewish New Yorkers to influence state and local policies, politics and the communal discourse on issues of concern to Jews who promote vibrant democracies in both the United States and Israel, today announced the appointment of Rabbi Margo Hughes-Robinson as its next Executive Director, beginning June 1.
A respected organizer, coalition-builder, and rabbinic leader, Rabbi Hughes-Robinson brings a track record of building durable partnerships across communities and advancing social justice initiatives rooted in Jewish values.
Rabbi Hughes-Robinson currently serves as Executive Director of Partners for Progressive Israel, where she has led strategic planning, built out a robust set of educational resources, strengthened organizational infrastructure, and deepened connections between American Jewish communities and partners in Israel and Palestine. Prior to that, she was a New York Rabbinic Organizer at T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, where she mobilized clergy and community leaders around issues including housing, labor rights, and criminal justice reform.
Earlier in her career, Rabbi Hughes-Robinson held roles at Avodah: The Jewish Service Corps and B’nai Jeshurun, and has been deeply engaged in interfaith work through institutions including the Milstein Center for Interreligious Dialogue. While at Milstein she also sat on a working group with UN Women. Rabbi Hughes-Robinson was ordained as a rabbi in the Conservative movement by Jewish Theological Seminary and is a current fellow in the Mandel Executive Leadership Program.
“Rabbi Margo Hughes-Robinson is a dynamic and thoughtful leader who understands both the urgency of this moment and the importance of building broad, values-driven coalitions,” said Nancy Kaufman, Chair of NYJA. “At a time of rising antisemitism and deepening polarization, her moral clarity, political fluency, and relationship-building skills will be critical in helping NYJA navigate a challenging time while continuing to strengthen its voice in the city, state and beyond.”
Rabbi Hughes-Robinson was drawn to NYJA’s mission and its role in shaping a more just and inclusive civic life.
“NYJA represents the sort of egalitarian community I want to continue building. It’s a place grounded in tradition, committed to justice, and deeply engaged with the city and state where we live,” said Rabbi Hughes-Robinson. “I’m excited to work with the board, staff, and partners across New York to strengthen relationships, expand our reach, and advance policies that support dignity and opportunity for all.”
Community leaders and partners welcomed the announcement:
Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal:
“Manhattan is home to one of the most vibrant and engaged Jewish communities in the world, and I’m excited to work with Margo as she steps into the excellent footprint left by Phylisa Wisdom and leads New York Jewish Agenda into this next chapter. I have no doubt she will be a tremendous asset to NYJA and our city and state.”
Rabbi Jill Jacobs:
“Margo is the kind of leader who doesn’t just talk about justice; she builds the relationships and coalitions that make it real. She has deep credibility across movements and brings both urgency and integrity to the work. NYJA is getting someone who knows how to turn values into action.”
Rabbi Burt Visotzky:
“Rabbi Hughes-Robinson is a passionate advocate for justice. She champions progressive causes in the United States and Israel. She’s a perfect match for the New York Jewish Agenda. NYJA has emerged as a leading voice in New York’s Jewish and civic landscape, working at the intersection of faith, policy, and community engagement. Under Rabbi Hughes-Robinson’s leadership, the organization will continue to deepen its work across a range of issues impacting New Yorkers, while building bridges across diverse constituencies.
