About twelve years ago, I taught an Intro to Judaism class—mostly to people in their twenties, some raised Jewish and eager to reconnect, others exploring Judaism with an eye toward conversion. Among the students was a couple: a woman named Megan and her then-fiancé, Todd Golden.
You may have heard Todd’s name recently. He’s now the head coach of the University of Florida men’s basketball team, which has made it to the Final Four of March Madness. There’s been quite a bit of media coverage around him—particularly because he is one of three Jewish coaches in this year’s Final Four, alongside Bruce Pearl of Auburn and Jon Scheyer of Duke.
In Jewish circles, this moment has sparked a wave of pride. At a time when many Jews feel hesitant to express their identity openly, it means something powerful to see three men so publicly and proudly Jewish on a national stage. These coaches are not just succeeding in the spotlight—they’re doing so while standing tall in their Jewishness.
This week, I looked back through old emails with Megan and Todd. I was reminded of Todd’s curiosity, his commitment to learning, and his genuine engagement with Jewish life. He often volunteered to give the d’var Torah when no one else had signed up. He asked thoughtful questions about the parsha. He reached out to learn how to celebrate Shabbat dinner.
I haven’t kept in touch with Todd and Megan, and I wouldn’t claim to be their rabbi or even someone they remember. But that’s not really the point. This isn’t a story about Todd—or Bruce or Jon. It’s a story about all of us.
Their example has made me think deeply this week about Jewish visibility—what it means to show up in the world as fully, unapologetically Jewish. What it means for people to look at us and see not just who we are, but what we stand for—and to recognize that what we stand for is beautiful.
Even if you’re not a basketball fan, this moment invites reflection: How do we represent our people in the world? In what ways can we wear our Jewish identity with pride, even—especially—when it’s hard? And how might we inspire pride in others through the way we live our Jewishness out loud?
This moment is a reminder that being visible, proud, and engaged as a Jew doesn’t require a spotlight—it just requires showing up.
