Originally from New York City, Rabbi Nevarez graduated from the Bronx High School of Science, and went to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where he received his BA. He was ordained by the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York in 2006, where he earned Master’s degrees in both Hebrew Literature and Religious Education, and was the recipient of a number of scholarships, and to several academic prizes in Jewish education. Rabbi Nevarez held residencies and internships in New York and Ann Arbor, Michigan, and at Temple Shaaray Tefila, Bedford New York, where he served for 17 years. Prior to entering Rabbinical School, he served as a Youth Director at synagogues in Connecticut and Michigan, and also as a Regional Director for NFTY (North American Federation of Temple Youth).

As part of his congregational portfolio, Rabbi Nevarez has had the opportunity to do outreach, educational, and social justice work both in Israel and Latin America. He has also been able to marry his global learning experiences with his passion for innovation and immersive learning/education across the generations he serves. He continues to help foster a congregation of learners and enjoys working closely with families in individual and family pastoral counseling.

Rabbi Nevarez is an alum of the STAR (Synagogues: Transformation and Renewal) Executive Leadership Program, UJA-NY’s Inaugural Rabbinic Fellowship for Visionary Leaders, a Past Chair of the Northern Westchester Interfaith Council, Executive Committee member of the Westchester Board of Rabbis, and Board member of Bedford 2030, an organization focused on reducing carbon emissions and preserving natural resources. He maintains ongoing community involvement in San Diego, currently serving on the board of Jewish Family Services and the Steering Committee of Faith Leaders of San Diego. He continues to see the sacred work of the synagogue as ever striving to reach beyond its walls.

Rabbi Nevarez lives in Carmel Valley with his wife, Nicole, his partner and lifelong friend, and their two children, Ethan and Sophie.