Dr. Michelle & Eytan Burstein
YOUNG LEADERSHIP AWARD
Michelle and Eytan Burstein have deep roots in the Springfield community. They had their very first date at the romantic Barnes and Noble Starbucks on Route 22 on the second night of Chanukah and were married a year later. After a short stint in Washington Heights, they moved to Springfield 14 years ago. Michelle was also born in Springfield and has the special privilege of living here with four generations of her family as members of CIS. Michelle and Eytan’s shared passion and desire for involvement can be credited to witnessing Michelle's grandparents, parents and older sibling Sharon and husband, Eytan Konigsberg’s roles as pillars of the community.
As a role model in our shul, Eytan currently co-chairs the Adult Education Committee, which is responsible for organizing the annual Scholars-in-Residence program along with a robust adult education schedule. Additionally, he serves as Treasurer of Mikva Yisroel. While on the Board of Trustees, Eytan was Co-Chair of the Nursery School during its tenure, and he has distinguished himself by authoring an article in the first publication of CIS’s Torah Journal - Rei’ach HaSadeh. Eytan graduated from Yeshiva University and received a CPA, specializing in international tax. He is currently a partner at CohnReznick.
Michelle began volunteering for this community and continued for many years chairing the Fundraising Committee for Mikvah Yisroel, helping raise necessary funds to support the Mikvah. In the last 2 years, she has transitioned to Co-President of the Mikvah and is very passionate about her commitment to this vital institution and its membership. This year, she spearheaded an indispensable change in Rabbi Marcus’s weekly parsha shiur by coordinating the hosting in people’s homes, increasing interest and attendance. Previously, she served as a member of the Sisterhood Board and for six years co-chaired Camp Kitanim, ages two-four CIS children’s summer program. Michelle graduated from Stern College for Women and attended UMDNJ Dental school. She works part time for The Bedside Dentist, LLC and full time for her family.
The Burstein’s greatest source of nachas is their family of 5 children ka”h Ezzy, 13, Gavriel, 11, Akiva, 8, Etiel, 5, and Princess Raylie, 2. They feel blessed to be raising their children in Springfield in this warm, inspirational and diverse community. During their time here, Michelle and Eytan have enjoyed seeing CIS’s evolvement while remaining true to its core Torah values, which they credit to the influence and inspiration of Morah D’asra Rabbi Chaim and Rebbetzin Lea Marcus. They would like to wish a huge Mazal Tov to the other well-deserving honorees and express appreciation to their family and friends for the unconditional love and support they provide, especially during this meaningful recognition.