Newton, MA — December 9, 2025 – The Board of Directors of Mayyim Hayyim Living Waters Community Mikveh and Education Center is happy to announce that Deb Gaffin will become Chief Executive Officer effective January 1.
A former member of Mayyim Hayyim’s Board of Directors, Gaffin brings a deep and proven commitment to the organization’s mission, coupled with a distinguished background in organizational leadership, change management and developing innovative learning experiences.
“I am thrilled that Deb will be our permanent CEO,” said Jordan Namerow, Mayyim Hayyim Board President. “As our interim since April 2025, she has provided clarity, steadiness, and a creative spirit, along with strategic thinking and bold new ideas. Under her leadership, Mayyim Hayyim will continue to be a vital source of renewal, belonging, and spiritual vitality in Greater Boston and beyond.”
Anita Diamant, Mayyim Hayyim’s visionary founder, says, “No one is more qualified or committed to the mission of Mayyim Hayyim than Deb, and she is a delight to work with. I look forward to being part of her team.”
For the past two decades, Gaffin has built a distinguished career in the education technology sector, leading digital learning initiatives for museums, publishers, and education companies in the U.S. and the U.K. Her work has focused on harnessing technology and human connection to achieve world-class learning outcomes.
“I’m delighted to be leading Mayyim Hayyim into its next chapter as an essential community resource in Greater Boston and beyond. Mayyim Hayyim represents the best of Jewish life: rooted in tradition and addressing contemporary needs to help people of all ages and backgrounds feel connected, cared for, and spiritually nourished. I look forward to continuing the work that has made mikveh a relevant and accessible expression of Jewish life.”
Gaffin earned her Ed.M. from Harvard University and BA from the University of Pennsylvania.