Agudath Israel of America has appointed Rabbi Ephraim Gurell as Associate Director of New York Government Relations, the organization announced Monday.

Rabbi Gurell joined Agudath Israel in 2023 and has since held several roles focused on legislative advocacy, government relations, community engagement and get-out-the-vote efforts. In those positions, he worked closely with elected officials and community leaders to advance the organization’s priorities, and helped develop new approaches to grassroots and voter engagement, including initiatives to make voting more accessible to members of the community.

“Rabbi Gurell has brought tremendous energy, passion, and initiative to our work,” said Rabbi Yeruchim Silber, Director of New York Government Relations. “Whether working with elected officials, engaging our communities, or developing new approaches to our advocacy efforts, he has consistently demonstrated an ability to take an idea and turn it into action. I look forward to continuing to work with him in this expanded role.”

In his new role, Rabbi Gurell will work alongside Rabbi Silber to further strengthen Agudath Israel’s government relations efforts and relationships throughout New York State, whether in Albany, City Hall or other local governments. He will continue to expand the organization’s advocacy on behalf of the needs and priorities of the Orthodox Jewish community.

Rabbi Gurell received his rabbinic ordination from Yeshivas Ohr Hachaim in Queens and holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Touro University, where he received the Dr. Kalman Singer Award for Excellence in Political Science. He is currently an MBA candidate at Yeshiva University’s Sy Syms School of Business.

“As the Agudah continues expanding our advocacy to meet the growing needs of our communities, we are thrilled to have Rabbi Gurell in an expanded role,” said Agudah COO Rabbi Avi Schnall. “His dedication and initiative have made a real impact on our work, and we are pleased to recognize his contributions with this appointment and are confident that he will accomplish much in this new role.”