The Coalition for Jewish Values (CJV), representing over 2,500 traditional, Orthodox Rabbis in American public policy, today announced the election by its Rabbinic Board of Rabbi Ze'ev Smason of St. Louis, Missouri, as Vice President of the organization. This followed the passing of Vice President Rabbi Dov Fischer shortly before Yom Kippur.
Rabbi Smason served for a quarter century as the rabbi of Nusach Hari B'nai Zion synagogue in St. Louis, and today is the Chairman of CJV Missouri, director of CJV state chapters, and was until now the Midwestern Regional Vice President of the organization.
Rabbi Smason stated: "I personally consider Rabbi Fischer z”l to have been a guide and inspiration. CJV, composed of over 2,500 traditional Orthodox rabbis that represent the world of traditional Judaism, has become one of the preeminent, influential Jewish organizations advocating for classical Jewish values in matters of public policy, and I know how much he contributed to CJV’s growth and felt honored to serve as Vice President."
"So for me to be elected as his successor is, both due to CJV and due to his influence, one of the great honors and highlights of my rabbinic career. I am humbled to be entrusted with this new position to continue and build upon the great accomplishments of my esteemed colleagues who founded CJV, and who continue to work tirelessly on behalf of the entirety of Am Yisrael, the Jewish people."