SLU inspired Susan A. Talve ’74 to become a rabbi. And she understands how amazing that sounds!

From its beginnings, when its Theological School graduated the first woman to be ordained by a denomination in America, St. Lawrence has sent its alumnae into positions of religious leadership. Susan Talve’75, a religious studies major, carries forward that tradition, as one of the first women in the nation to be ordained a rabbi.

As founding rabbi of the Central Reform Congregation in St. Louis, Missouri, Susan leads worship services for the several hundred households that comprise her urban congregation, and is actively involved in the teaching of young and adult members.
She has led her congregation in promoting inclusivity by developing ongoing relationships with African-American and Muslim congregations, and by fostering civil liberties for the lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgendered community.  Acting upon her passionate beliefs, she has given her time and energy to religious and civic organizations dedicated to reproductive choice, justice, childcare and health care for the inadequately insured.

Proud that she chose the path she did, St. Lawrence honored to award Susan with a 2008 Alumni Citation.