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OUR STORY

Our Story

“My story isn’t unique. But I was lucky. I got pregnant via IVF twice in two years and I thank the universe every day. But for others it takes years, losses, and lots of tears and heartache before babies are made, if at all. And with the costs of IVF ranging from $15,000 – $25,000 in the United States, many don’t even have a chance for a chance. So I’ve turned my useless guilt into helpful actions by starting the Jewish Fertility Foundation (JFF). We provide financial assistance, educational awareness, and emotional support to Jewish families who have medical fertility challenges in the communities we serve. As a woman struggling with infertility, I know what it’s like to cry alone. But YOU are no longer alone. JFF is here for you.”

-Elana Frank, CEO & Founder of Jewish Fertility Foundation

JFF STAFF

JFF Executive Team

Elana Frank

CEO & Founder

Elana (Bekerman) Frank, a native of Atlanta, GA, lived, studied, and worked in Maryland, Manhattan, Israel, and New Jersey. She has 20 years of experience working with non-profits (in America and in Israel) in fundraising, marketing, community outreach, volunteer recruitment, Board development and program development.

Elana "birthed" The Jewish Fertility Foundation. It took her ten years and countless rounds of IUI and IVF cycles and embryo donation to make three babies. Because she was a resident of Israel at that time of her first two children, their socialized medicine afforded her the opportunity to inexpensively reach a solution. When she returned to the US, she realized that others weren’t as lucky as her - in terms of treatment success, community support, and financial aid. She learned for others it takes years, miscarriages, unbearable debt, oceans of tears, and heartache before finally giving birth, if at all. And with the cost of IVF ranging on average from $14,000 - $25,000 in America many don’t even have a chance for a chance. Knowing that there was this grave need for funding, support and enhanced awareness of this sometimes “unspoken” issue in the Jewish community, she decided to create Jewish Fertility Foundation.

Jenny Jones

Jenny Jones

Director of Development

Jenny Jones joins the Jewish Fertility Foundation after serving many roles in the Jewish non-profit world. Her experience has been focused on fundraising throughout the past 20 years. After hearing about JFF and attending the kickoff event in Pittsburgh, Jenny was eager and inspired and wanted to get involved. Several of her friends have struggled with infertility and she can’t wait to give back and help others. Her talents include fundraising, donor relations, volunteer recruitment and outreach. Jenny currently lives in PIttsburgh, PA with her husband, Chad, and children Mason and Ava. Jenny is thrilled to be part of the team.

Kayla Heering

Chief Operations Officer

Kayla Heering was born and raised in Atlanta and later attended the University of Maryland for her undergraduate studies. She earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from The George Washington University in Washington, DC, where she began her career as a physical therapist. Her clinical experience, combined with her own pregnancy journey with twins, highlighted significant gaps in both healthcare and support for individuals and families navigating the path from pre-pregnancy through postpartum.

Motivated to help address these gaps, Kayla joined the Jewish Fertility Foundation (JFF) in 2021 as the Atlanta Manager. As the organization expanded, her role expanded with increasing responsibility, including program development, organizational growth, and the delivery of services that support individuals experiencing infertility.

Kayla now serves as JFF’s Chief Operations Officer, providing strategic leadership for program design, operational systems, and service implementation across all JFF communities. Her favorite part of working at JFF is witnessing the meaningful growth and impact the organization achieves in diverse communities and knowing that JFF can support individuals during some of their most challenging moments.

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Eryn Rubin

Director of Marketing & Communications

Eryn Rubin was born in Denver and has called Colorado home for most of her life. She is a graduate of Tufts University and holds a master’s degree from New York University. Eryn brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing across a range of industries, including entertainment and nonprofit organizations. In her current role as Director of Marketing & Communications, Eryn leads the organization's national marketing strategy, brand voice, external communications, and stakeholder engagement.

Eryn’s professional work is deeply informed by her personal experience. While living in Chicago, she and her husband, Danny, navigated a long-distance relationship that ultimately brought them back to Denver. After the birth of their first son, Elliott, they experienced secondary infertility and pursued multiple rounds of IUI and IVF before welcoming their second son, Silas.

Through sharing her own journey, Eryn became acutely aware of how many individuals and families are affected by infertility. She is passionate about expanding Jewish Fertility Foundation’s presence and impact and is committed to ensuring that those facing infertility have access to compassionate emotional support, financial assistance, and educational resources. Eryn believes deeply that no two fertility journeys are the same and strives to help individuals and couples feel supported, understood, and less alone throughout the process.

headshot of Director of Finance Rachel Fruchtman

Rachel Fruchtman

Chief Financial Officer

Rachel Fruchtman is a Southern California native living in San Diego with her husband and two daughters. With nearly 20 years of non-profit leadership experience, she specializes in finance, accounting, human resources, and organizational operations. Rachel is passionate about the Jewish Fertility Foundation's vision of helping everyone who aspires to build a family achieve their dream and is honored to contribute to such an inspiring organization.

JFF Managers

Julie Cohen

Senior Program Manager (Birmingham, Nevada)

Julie grew up outside of Chicago and fell in love with living in the South when she moved to Nashville to attend college at Vanderbilt University. She studied Special Education and Speech-Language Pathology and has worked as a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist in clinical and school settings since 2010. Julie moved to Birmingham in 2014 and immediately became active in the vibrant Jewish community there. After experiencing years of infertility to grow her family, helping others going through this unimaginably difficult journey became her passion. She doesn't want anyone experiencing infertility to feel alone and loves providing guidance in any way she can.

Julie is excited to support Jewish Fertility Foundation’s work in Birmingham and Nevada through its collaboration with both the Collat Jewish Family Services (CJFS) and Jewish Nevada. She provides resources and support to individuals and families navigating infertility in the Birmingham and Nevada communities and is committed to ensuring they feel informed, supported, and less alone throughout their journey.

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Allison Smith

Eastern Region Development Manager

Allison Bodner Smith, a graduate of The University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Social Work, has more than 18 years of experience working with transformative non-profits, from Jewish agencies to the Arts, creating new programs, overseeing events, and supporting donor relations. Wanting to explore her creative side, Allison added an Interior Design degree to her education and founded her design firm in 2009. Having her own successful business for 15 years, Allison was able to continue being innovative while working with people and managing projects.

After going through infertility challenges and learning she had a rare chromosome abnormality that made a viable pregnancy near impossible, Allison and her husband turned to IVF. At the time, there was no organization like the Jewish Fertility Foundation, but she is grateful that others are able to embrace what it has to offer with hopes of helping immensely through the process. She is thrilled to devote her professional energy to something she is so personally passionate about.

In her spare time, Allison loves spending time with family, exploring the outdoors, seeing
friends, and being active in a variety of non-profits, including The Epstein School, Make a Wish Foundation and Ian's Friends Foundation. An Atlanta native, she lives in Sandy Springs with her husband, 2 children and 2 dogs.

Rebecca Guttman

Rebecca Guttman

Program Manager (Atlanta, Greater DC, Houston)

Rebecca was born and raised in Queens, New York. She moved to Montreal, Canada to attend McGill University for her undergraduate degree, which she earned in 2009. In 2013 she earned a Master’s in Biomedical Ethics, also at McGill University, focusing on decision making in fertility treatment. Since then, Rebecca has spent much of her professional life and significant volunteer time working in the Jewish non-profit sector. She has worked in synagogues, school organizations, camps and retreat centers, handling programming, logistics, client relations and internal operations.

In 2018, Rebecca moved to Atlanta with her family, which now includes her husband, two sons and one daughter. She immediately connected with the vibrant Atlanta Jewish community and is thrilled to be working within it. Rebecca is inspired by the JFF mission and is excited to raise awareness about infertility through education and community initiatives. Rebecca believes that no person should go through infertility alone and is looking forward to providing resources and support to those going through infertility in Atlanta, Greater DC, and Houston.

Shira Gabry-Kalikow

Fertility Grants Senior Manager

Shira Gabry-Kalikow has a dual Master's in Social Work and Public Health from Columbia University. Even before going through infertility herself, she worked in the reproductive health and infertility fields, interning at a fertility clinic in graduate school, teaching gender and sexuality education, and designing and developing educational content at a fertility start-up.

Shira joined the JFF-DEN Advisory Council in November and has significant experience at other non-profit organizations. In 2024, she was thrilled to join the staff of a mission-driven organization focused on a cause about which she is both personally and professionally passionate. Shira believes social support is vital to coping with infertility and looks forward to further developing programs that provide this support at JFF.

After attending a pluralistic Jewish day school from kindergarten through high school and remaining actively involved in Jewish life throughout college, Shira was eager to deepen her connection to the Denver Jewish community. She now serves as JFF’s Fertility Grants Senior Manager, where oversees the grants program, and creates and strengthens our clinic partnerships.

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Tamar Poupko Smith

Program Director (Cleveland, Pittsburgh)

Tamar Poupko Smith grew up in Montreal, Canada and after living in Israel, New York, Baltimore and Cincinnati, is proud to call Cleveland her home. She has a B.A. from Yeshiva University and has spent over twenty years in the Jewish non-profit world, in both professional and lay positions. Her most recent work has been with Jewish day schools, and in whatever capacity, Tamar is always engaged in working toward their success.

Tamar joined JFF after serving on the JFF-CLE advisory board and is thrilled that JFF is expanding to include Cleveland; a strong, vibrant and welcoming Jewish community. She looks forward to connecting with, and supporting individuals in both Cleveland and Pittsburgh on their family-building journeys with compassion and sensitivity. Tamar’s parents and four siblings have all dedicated themselves, professionally, to the Jewish community and they continue to inspire her to serve and better our communities and the Jewish people.

Tamar is active in a number of local non-profits including Fuchs Mizrachi School, the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, the Community Beit Midrash, and Bnei Akiva. Tamar enjoys spending time with her husband Elliot, their four children and one incredible goldendoodle named Leo.

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Efrat Yuzefovich

Program Manager (South Florida)

Efrat Yuzefovich was born and raised in the north of Israel. After serving in the IDF in an intelligence unit, she relocated to the U.S.for her studies. She completed a B.A in Psychology from George Mason University.

Efrat’s passion is helping women, children, and families to overcome challenging life situations, especially those that are consequences of mental health challenges. To fulfill her aspirations, after her university years she joined a private OB/GYN multi-practice which specialized in a variety of women’s medical services, including infertility. She helped to provide health care management to a wide multi-cultural and multi-ethnic community. In her role, Efrat offered empathetic guidance, education, and an attentive ear to make sure clients felt taken care of throughout their medical care.

As part of her service to the Northern VA community, Efrat joined the health department to provide public health emergency assistance during the COVID pandemic. During that time, her focus was to ensure each family was provided access to the services they needed during a stressful medical global crisis. While living in Northern VA, Efrat was part of the Northern VA Jewish community and provided educational Hebrew and cultural studies to children of different ages.

Upon her relocation to Miami, Efrat has been eager to be part of the Miami Jewish community in a bigger capacity. With over 10 years of experience working at OB/GYN offices and serving women who experience infertility, she is grateful to join JFF and take part in its meaningful mission that is very close to her heart. Efrat is humbly honored to offer support and guidance to those in the Miami area who are trying to grow their families.

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Elisheva Engler

Program Manager (Denver, National)

Elisheva spent the first 18 years of her life in Southern California thoroughly enjoying the beach and warm weather. She spent her gap year in Israel before attending Columbia University and the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City. She graduated with two bachelor degrees in Contemporary History and Modern Jewish studies. After graduating, she moved to Atlanta, Georgia where she worked in event planning and catering. She married her husband Elie Engler in 2008. After deciding to start a family, they realized it's not as easy as it looks. After multiple rounds of IUI and IVF, they are so grateful to have welcomed two daughters and a son into their family.

Going through the painful experience of infertility opened their eyes to how lonely and isolating it can feel. Together with Elana Frank and a wonderful group of people, Elie and Elisheva helped create the Jewish Fertility Foundation. Elisheva is so excited to continue her professional journey with JFF as a Program Manager. She believes strongly in raising awareness of the struggles of infertility and providing those experiencing infertility with a helping hand and an open heart.

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Tonya Wilson

Digital Marketing & Graphic Design Manager

Tonya joined the Jewish Fertility Foundation as a fellow infertility warrior first introduced to JFF through their infertility support groups. A Midwest native, Tonya earned a BA in Graphic Design from Jacksonville State University. She has designed for and worked with various non-profit organizations. Now, she is excited to apply her expertise to support JFF's mission.

In addition to her graphic design and marketing experience, through her journey with infertility, Tonya has developed a passion for serving and supporting families on their own journeys. For anyone struggling to conceive, she truly believes in advocating for yourself and seeking guidance and education. She is excited to be a part of JFF's progress to provide support and resources for infertility communities nationwide.

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Joey Brooks

Western Region Development Manager

Joey Brooks brings extensive experience in Jewish nonprofit development, with a focus on cultivating meaningful relationships, strengthening community, and inspiring philanthropy. After nearly two decades in the creative fashion industry, she transitioned to the Jewish nonprofit sector, where she leverages her background in branding, design, and storytelling to advance mission-driven work and deepen engagement in Jewish philanthropy.

A Los Angeles native, Joey is particularly passionate about fostering connections across the West Coast and supporting the growth of vibrant Jewish life in the region. Her interest in health and reproductive rights is rooted in her upbringing, both of her parents worked at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, and was further shaped by nearly a decade of fundraising for pediatric initiatives at the hospital.

Joey is a proud mother to her son and a terrier puppy, and remains actively involved in her local community. She is also an enthusiastic home cook, known for her brisket. Deeply committed to the future of the Jewish community, Joey is inspired by the many ways individuals show up for one another through life’s most meaningful moments. She is especially drawn to JFF’s mission, recognizing that supporting fertility journeys not only helps individuals build families, but also strengthens the Jewish community as a whole.

Lexie Vineburg

Program Manager (Cincinnati and Detroit)

Lexie Vineburg is a Detroit native with extensive experience in Jewish community programming that fosters authentic relationships and connects people to the support and resources they need. She is looking forward to bringing this work to the Cincinnati and Detroit communities.

As a mother, Lexie has learned there is profound truth in the old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” She finds JFF's mission meaningful and she is proud to empower families, knowing that each family supported strengthens the resilience and continuity of the Jewish people.

As the granddaughter of two Holocaust survivors, Lexie finds JFF’s mission especially meaningful. She is proud to empower families, knowing that every family supported strengthens the resilience and continuity of the Jewish people.

Lexie, her husband Isaac, and their young daughter enjoy spending time with family and friends, hosting Shabbat dinners, reading lots and lots of PJ Library books, and exploring the great outdoors.

Hilary Sloane

Marketing & Communications Manager

Hilary Sloane serves as Marketing & Communications Manager at the Jewish Fertility Foundation®, where she helps tell the organization's story and connect families with the support they need.

Hilary lives in Atlanta and graduated from the University of Georgia. She has spent her career in marketing and communications within the Jewish nonprofit world, working with several organizations to build communications strategies and share stories that strengthen community ties and move missions forward. She cares about making complex, personal experiences feel human and easy to understand.

Her connection to JFF's mission is personal. While trying to grow her family, Hilary faced unexplained infertility and experienced the pain, uncertainty, and isolation that often come with it. She also learned firsthand what it means to have people around you who remind you that you're not alone. Today, as a mom of two daughters, Hilary is grateful for the chance to give back, helping other individuals and families feel supported and less alone on their own fertility journeys.

Sophie Steinberg

Executive Coordinator

Sophie Steinberg joined the Jewish Fertility Foundation (JFF) as Executive Coordinator in 2026, bringing a background in clinical research, project coordination, and mission-driven work. She previously interned with JFF in 2023, contributing to event planning, demographic research, and support groups.

Sophie earned her bachelor's degree in Biopsychology, Cognition, and Neuroscience from the University of Michigan and went on to serve as a Lab Manager at Georgetown University in DC, where she coordinated clinical research focused on stroke recovery, built many of the lab's systems and workflows, and collaborated across interdisciplinary teams. She is excited to bring these skills back to JFF to support the CEO and contribute to its continued growth and impact.

Through these experiences, Sophie developed a strong interest in multidisciplinary, people-centered care, a perspective she looks forward to bringing to JFF's comprehensive range of resources and support for individuals and families navigating infertility.
Sophie is based in Chicago, where she enjoys exploring local coffee shops, hosting Shabbat meals, and hiking with her husband. She also loves learning about new topics and is always looking for her next MasterClass to watch.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Joey Hurd

Board Chair

Joey Hurd is honored to be on the Jewish Fertility Foundation's Board, representing the Radow Family Foundation, a name that is synonymous with gratitude, generosity, and compassion; values that align with Joey’s personal character and beliefs. Joey joined the Radow Foundation after having previously served as a CIO for a commercial real estate investment and development firm.
Joey earned a B.A. in Strategic Communications from Ohio State University. He also serves on the board of Wisconsin Badger Camp, and holds advisory positions with the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. He is a graduate of the Tritt Leadership Fellows program, an Atlanta-based cohort that strives to develop the next generation of philanthropic leaders. In his free time, Joey enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, wine, and cheering on Kennesaw State University.
Debra Meyer- BOD

Debra Meyer

Debra Meyer is an investment advisor for Moonstone Asset Management, a boutique advisory firm located in Northbrook, IL. She works remotely from Atlanta, where she has resided with her family for the last year and a half. She previously worked in management consulting and later at a high-growth tech start-up, before settling into a career in wealth management. She holds an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management and received her undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University. Debra currently serves as Treasurer for Slingshot, a non-profit focused on engaging young Jewish philanthropists to make a lasting impact on the Jewish world and beyond.

Why JFF
My husband and I are blessed to be the parents of our 16 month-old daughter, Daphne (in addition to her two golden retriever sisters). In the early days of our fertility challenges, we knew very few people who had been through what we were going through. The process was emotionally taxing, financially stressful, and highly isolating. We weren't fortunate enough to be living in a JFF city at the time to have known about the incredible community and resources available. Today, we are grateful to be part of a strong network of peers who have been through the same challenges we have and the difference that makes is insurmountable. It is my honor to be a part of JFF and help foster this very needed community.

Shari Seiner

Shari Seiner

Shari is a recently retired fundraising professional with over two decades of experience in nonprofit development. Dedicated to strengthening and building community, Shari’s expertise in fundraising strategy, leadership development, and donor relations has helped her secure critical funding for organizations in the American Jewish community and Israel.

Always active in her children’s education and her community, she has volunteered in many capacities throughout the years. Shari volunteers with the Dartmouth College Parents and Grandparents Committee, is a Co-Chair of Dartmouth Hillel’s Parent Circle and is a Florida Foster Care Review Citizen Panel Member.

Originally from upstate New York, Shari received her BA from Tulane University and MA from the Jewish Theological Seminary of America. In addition, she spent two years studying at Hebrew University’s Institute of Contemporary Jewry in Jerusalem, where she met her husband, Daniel. Together, they raised their four miracle children in South Florida.

Why JFF:

Shari was always highly private about her long, isolating, and challenging path to parenthood and thought she had put her struggle behind her. During the pandemic, she learned about JFF, felt an instant connection, and reached out to offer help. She understood that JFF is a game-changer in the Jewish community, and it would have meant the world to her to have had an organization like JFF for support and community. After connecting with Elana, Shari became JFF’s first part-time Development Director as a way to bring together her fertility struggle with her professional career. She is thrilled to continue to help those struggling to build their families.

Jeremy Kasle

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Amanda Segal

Amanda Segal’s journey commenced in Cape Town, South Africa, where she met and married her husband, Mark. In 1991, they emigrated to the Washington, D.C.-Maryland area. In Potomac, Maryland, she worked for the newly established congregation of B’nai Tzedek, assisting Rabbi Stuart Weinblatt in preparing the synagogue for its construction.
In 1993, Amanda’s career took a new turn when she joined Shady Grove Fertility, which has since become the largest fertility practice in the country. Within a year, she played a pivotal role in marketing an innovative financial program tailored for patients seeking in-vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Amanda’s dedication and expertise helped thousands of patients comprehend the financial aspects of the IVF process.
In 2008, Amanda’s spearheaded the creation of an international egg donation program, enabling patients from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Canada, Europe, and China to seek treatment in the United States. Drawing from her own experience of needing fertility treatment to conceive her three children, Amanda provided comfort and valuable information to prospective patients.

Amanda’s exceptional work was recognized in 2013 when she was awarded the prestigious title of Employee of the Year for her unwavering dedication, passion, and expertise in her field.

Amanda’s life took an unexpected turn during the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted international travel and marked the end of nearly three decades of dedicated service. Seeking a new chapter in her life, she found a home within the Peloton community. Amanda’s passion for promoting a healthy lifestyle and her love for Peloton workouts led her to become a Peloton influencer, encouraging hundreds/thousands of individuals to join the platform. Amanda’s journey continues, with her passion for fitness and her dedication to helping others fueling her endeavors. She resides between Potomac, Maryland, and Florida with her husband, Mark. Her greatest pride and joy are her three children, Aaron, Kayla, and Nicole.

Tracy Juran

Tracy Juran is a Principal Consultant and owner with SEI Cincinnati; a nationally recognized, but locally-driven boutique consulting firm. SEI has consistently been featured on Consulting Magazine's Best Firms to Work For list for 14 years, earning the #1 spot in both 2023 and 2024. She is a passionate IT and business professional with 10 years of experience in project and program management, organizational change management, business process improvement and transformation consulting.

Tracy was born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio. She earned her bachelor's degree in Business Administration from The Ohio State University and moved to Cincinnati upon graduation where she met her husband, Josh. They are the very proud parents of Lev (2020) and Jude (2023). Tracy is a die-hard Ohio State Buckeyes fan and loves to plan parties with friends and travel the world; her favorite destinations include Thailand, Peru, and Israel.

Why JFF?
One in six jewish couples faces infertility. Our Jewish values teach us that we must show up for one another- both in times of great hardship and during times of great joy. My own 4 year infertility journey made me a more empathetic, persistent and self-aware individual. It’s made me think more about what it means to show up for others and our community.

Staci Eichelbaum

Staci Eichelbaum Levine currently works for Slingshot. Prior to joining Slingshot, Staci worked in the Jewish non-profit sector for over ten years in many different roles, including grassroots politics, fundraising, young adult leadership and youth philanthropy. Staci is passionate about community and has spent her career building relationships, connecting individuals with their philanthropic passions and helping to create the next generation of leadership. Staci currently resides in the Washington, DC area with her husband and two children.

Danielle Rosenbaum

Danielle is a dedicated physical therapist specializing in the treatment of individuals with neurological impairments. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Indiana University and went on to receive her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from University of Alabama at Birmingham. She currently resides in Birmingham, AL with her husband, Ben, their two incredible children, and their beloved Labrador Retriever.

Why JFF?
Navigating my own journey with infertility was deeply challenging. It often felt isolating, with few people who could truly understand what I was going through. After learning about the Jewish Fertility Foundation following the birth of my first child, I knew I had to get involved. I wanted to help ensure that others facing similar challenges would have access to resources, support, and a sense of community. The work that JFF does is truly impactful. I’m honored to be part of such a meaningful mission—helping to expand outreach and continue providing vital support to the infertility community.

Joanne Aronovitz

My name is Joanne Aronovitz. I live in Huntington Woods, Michigan with my husband,
Danny. We have been married for 37 years. I have three children, Sara, Ben who is married
to Jill and Anna. They all now reside in our Detroit community, after having lived in New York
and Chicago.
I am an interior designer and have been working in the field for 39 years. I do both
residential and commercial design.
Currently, I serve on three community boards; Hebrew Free Loan which provides interest
free loans to Jewish people in Michigan, JARC (board member and past Vice-President)
which provides care for developmentally disabled people, and Jewish Senior Life which
provides residential care for the elderly. Previously, I packed and delivered meals through
NCJW’s Kosher Meals on Wheels program and have been active at my synagogue
Congregation Shaarey Zedek. My passion has always been to elevate the Jewish
community.
As soon as I met Elana Frank at the International Lion of Judah conference, I knew Jewish
Fertility Foundation was missing from my community and I wanted to make it happen in the
Detroit area. JFF is a vital service that will provide our future community families the help
they may need to begin their own family.
headshot of Debbi Cooper

Debbi Cooper

Debbi is the VP of Partnerships at M²: The Institute for Experiential Jewish Education, where she works with educators and organizations to design compelling educational experiences that help their learners find meaning and relevance in Jewish life. Previously Debbi served as the Director of Engagement for PJ Library and Associate Vice President, Community Outreach & Engagement of the Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago. She is the immediate past Chair of the Board for Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School, a pluralistic Jewish Day School in Chicago. She is a graduate of M²’s Senior Educators Cohort and the 18x18 Executive fellowship.

Debbi graduated from Washington University in St. Louis and has a Master’s in Public Administration/Non-profit management from George Mason University. Debbi lives in Chicago with her husband, Aaron, and their three children: Gabe, Judah, and Noah. She schleps her family on hikes and bikes, makes big dinners upon their return and can often be found hiding out with a good book.

Pam Parker - BOD

Dr. Pam Parker

Pam Parker, MD, MPH, FACOG, is a double board-certified OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist with a strong commitment to expanding access to compassionate, evidence-based fertility care. A Pittsburgh native shaped by Squirrel Hill’s vibrant Jewish community, she feels both a personal and professional calling to support individuals and families on their fertility journeys, with particular passion for ensuring Jewish families facing infertility feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Dr. Parker earned her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from the Honors Program at the University of Maryland–College Park, followed by a dual MD/MPH from West Virginia University School of Medicine. She completed her OB/GYN residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Oregon Health & Sciences University. She is a member of the Gold Humanism Society and has received multiple awards recognizing her excellence in patient care, advocacy, research, and teaching, with peer-reviewed publications and national presentations.

Currently, Dr. Parker is an Assistant Professor at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where she serves as Associate Program Director for the REI Fellowship, Director of Resident Education in REI, and Director of the UPMC Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Care Center. She is active nationally with the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, serves as a peer reviewer for leading medical journals, and is a member of several professional organizations, including ACOG and SREI. Outside of work, she enjoys theatre, music, exploring new food spots, and spending time with her husband, two sons, and golden retriever.

Katie Small - BOD Photo

Katie Small

Katie Small is a finance professional and philanthropist with a longstanding commitment to community leadership and service. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan in 1991 and a Master’s degree in Finance and Economics from Walsh College in 2004. Katie spent the early part of her career in banking before transitioning to entrepreneurship in 2008, when she and her husband launched companies in the consumer debt industry.

Today, her work is focused primarily on philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Katie serves on the Women’s Philanthropy Board of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, is a trustee of the Jewish Women’s Foundation of Metropolitan Detroit, and is a board member of the Jewish Federation of the Desert in Palm Springs. She brings strategic, financial, and governance expertise to each of these roles.

Katie has a deeply personal connection to the mission of the Jewish Fertility Foundation, shaped by her own infertility journey earlier in life. After learning about JFF at the International Land of Judah Conference in 2023, she was inspired to help expand its impact and led efforts to raise awareness and funding to establish the Detroit location. Katie is passionate about using her experience and skills to support families facing the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of infertility.

She and her husband, Scott, are the parents of four adult children and divide their time between Michigan and California.

Adam Kazinec- BOD

Adam Kazinec

Adam “Kaz” Kazinec is a second-generation financial advisor and co-founder of Convergent Financial Partners, a professional network serving independent financial advisors nationwide. With more than 17 years of experience, he advises mid-career professionals and pre-retirees on complex financial decisions, including equity compensation, tax strategy, and retirement income planning. He holds advanced professional designations including ChFC®, CLU®, and RICP®, and is known for a clear, relationship-driven approach that helps clients move from complexity to confident action.

In addition to his advisory work, Kaz is the host of Kaz’s Korner, where he offers candid insights on wealth, work, and real-life decision-making through a practical and accessible lens. His work reflects a commitment to thoughtful planning, modern tools, and direct communication.

Kaz was first introduced to the Jewish Fertility Foundation through his service on the Federation’s Innovation Fund Committee and was proud to support JFF’s launch in Atlanta. In 2021, he and his wife personally experienced fertility challenges and reconnected with JFF, which provided meaningful financial, emotional, and communal support during their journey to parenthood. Now the grateful parents of a young son, Kaz is deeply appreciative of the Jewish community that supported his family and is honored to serve on the board of an organization making a profound impact for others.

Maddi Ishbia Luckoff

Maddi Ishbia Luckoff is a Metro Detroit native with a career rooted in retail and apparel. She spent several years as a buyer and boutique manager before joining Greyson Clothiers, where she now works in e-commerce and licensing partnerships. Her experience building brand relationships, understanding consumer needs, and navigating fast-moving industries brings valuable perspective to the JFF board.

Her path to JFF is a deeply personal one. After nearly two years of misdiagnoses, unanswered questions, and a fertility system that often left her feeling unheard, she finally found the right care team and the right path forward, one that led her through IUI, IVF, and, at last, the phone call she'd waited so long to receive. She is now mom to Ross, just over a year old, and joins the board with a heart full of gratitude and a deep desire to pay it forward.

Having lived through how isolating and emotionally exhausting the fertility journey can be, she is passionate about the education, community, and support that JFF provides. The more she shared her own story, the more she found others carrying one just like it.

Beyond JFF, Maddi serves on the Board of Directors for Tamarack Camps and is an active volunteer in the Metro Detroit Jewish community. When she's not working or giving back, you'll find her knitting, exercising, playing canasta, or making memories in Harbor Springs with her husband Andrew, son Ross, and goldendoodle Griffin. She is happiest surrounded by her wide circle of friends and family, and cheering on her Indiana Hoosiers.

Steve Lasensky

Steve Lasensky is a leader in the family-building and reproductive medicine community with more than 25 years of experience supporting healthcare professionals, patients, and organizations across the fertility journey. Since 2011, he has served on the fertility leadership team at Organon, with experience spanning commercial leadership, learning and development, and community engagement.

A trusted relationship builder, Steve has dedicated his career to helping clinical and business teams better serve individuals and families on their path to parenthood. His work is grounded in creating meaningful connections, advancing education, and leading with empathy. As he often says, "It's never about me... it's about them."

A product of Jewish camping, Steve went on to serve as a high school and college Jewish young adult leader. He currently serves as Vice President of Temple Solel in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, California, where he also chairs the Engagement Committee. He is an active member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the Association of Reproductive Managers (ARM), where he serves on the Membership Committee.

Steve and his wife Jodi, also a healthcare professional, are the proud parents of two adult daughters. Outside of work, he is a coffee aficionado and enjoys soaking in the Southern California sunshine, cycling, and power beach walks. He leads with authenticity, curiosity, service, and a commitment to helping people feel supported and connected.

Why JFF?
Joining the JFF Board feels truly beshert — meant to be. Throughout his career, Steve has had the privilege of supporting the teams who work directly with individuals and couples as they build their families, while also remaining deeply committed to serving and strengthening the Jewish community. JFF brings these two passions together by providing financial assistance, emotional support, and infertility education to hopeful parents. He is honored to help advance a mission that offers compassion, hope, and meaningful support during one of life's most important journeys.

GET INVOLVED!

We are looking for a Diverse Board – people of all genders and ages are strongly encouraged to reach out to Elana Frank, JFF’s CEO & Founder, to learn more!

THANK YOU TO PAST JFF BOARD MEMBERS:

Scott Anklowitz, Vicki S. Benjamin, Rabbi Analia Bortz, Judith Daar, Jodi Daniels, Debbie Derby, Neal Dodell, Elie Engler, Elisheva Engler, Gennye Feldman Krasner, Rifki Freundlich, Shelley Gaynes, Lynn Goldman, Ronnie Goldman, Karen Grinzaid, Maynard Grossman, Dr. Jessica Harroche, Junko Horvath, Elisha Janet, Elisha Joffe, Naomi Korb Weiss, Sheri Kornblum, Alyson F. Lembeck, Rachel Loftspring, Sheri S. Labovitz, Lauren Magalnick Berman, Ph.D., Riva Mirvis, Amy Nadler, Rain Pryor, Stephen Royal, Meryl Rosenberg, Adi Rubin, Rabbi Jessica Shafrin, Al Shams, Gabby Sirner-Cohen, Rabbi Adam Star, Rabbi Mark Zimmerman

MEDICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL

Pavna K. Brahma, MD, FACOG

Pavna K. Brahma, M.D., FACOG, is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist. She earned her medical degree and completed her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Michigan. Dr. Brahma completed her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Emory University. During fellowship, her research in reproductive immunology was awarded a Prize Paper award at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) national meeting. Her fellowship thesis on the regulation of inflammation in adipose tissue was awarded the Basic Science Research award by Emory’s Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Brahma has practiced in Atlanta for over 10 years and has experience in assisted reproductive technologies and advanced reproductive procedures. Her clinical interests include optimizing outcomes in patients with diminished ovarian reserve, advances in vitro fertilization, recurrent pregnancy loss, fertility preservation, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Dr. Brahma has produced several publications and research presentations in the fields of endocrinology, infertility, and reproductive immunology.

She is a fellow of the American Congress of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Brahma is passionate about advancements in women’s health, and she is an appointed member of the Women in Healthcare Board of the Atlanta Women’s Foundation. Dr. Brahma’s most precious professional accomplishments are the awards she has received for patient care. She is married to Barun Brahma, M.D., a pediatric neurosurgeon at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, and they have two children. She enjoys international travel, yoga and flower arranging in her free time.

Jeremy M. Groll, MD

Dr. Groll is currently the Managing Partner at SpringCreek Fertility. He has served as Medical Director at Kettering Reproductive Medicine, Chief Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at 88th Surgical Operations Squadron at Wright-Patterson AFB, in Ohio and was an Assistant Professor at Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine in Dayton Ohio.

He is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a Fellow with the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and was an editorial reviewer for Fertility and Sterility.

Dr. Groll has been published in several medical journals including the Fertility and Sterility, ASRM Journal and the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. He has given presentations for the Society for Gynecologic Investigations, ASRM, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the Endocrine Society.

When not working he enjoys spending time with family, fine dining, travel, barbecue, making ice cream, art, running, wrestling and Notre Dame football.

Dr. Groll's vision is to allow easy access and care for fertility patients, he is excited to extend his reach to the Jewish community.

Deidre Gunn, MD

Deidre Downs Gunn, MD, is a reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist and board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist at the University of Alabama-Birmingham (UAB) Medical Center, where she is the medical director of the in vitro fertilization program.

Deidre was also Miss America 2005, and during her year of service she was a spokesperson for CureSearch National Childhood Cancer Foundation. After completing her term as Miss America, she resumed her studies and graduated with her M.D. from the UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine. She also completed her residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at UAB, where she was an administrative chief resident and the recipient of a medical student teaching award as well as the Chairman’s Award.

After residency, she stayed at UAB for her fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility and then joined the faculty as an assistant professor and attending physician. She was recognized in the “Top 40 Under 40” in Birmingham in 2018 for her work as an advocate for LGBTQ patients. Her clinical interests include reproductive surgery, IVF, access to care, and mental health.

Deidre and her wife Abbott live in Homewood, Alabama with son Jack, a sixth-grader, and their daughter Ella, born in August 2021.

This is a headshot for Dr. Quinn Katler

Quinton Katler, MD, MSc, FACOG

Quinton Katler, MD, MSc, FACOG, is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) and board eligible in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). Dr. Katler received his undergraduate degree from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. From there, he went on to receive his medical degree from the American Medical Program at Tel Aviv University in Tel Aviv, Israel. He then completed his residency in OB/GYN at The George Washington University in Washington, D.C. In 2019 he moved to Atlanta, Georgia for his REI Fellowship training at Emory University. During this time, he was recognized for his excellence in both clinical and laboratory research.

Dr. Katler is proud to serve as an advocate for those facing infertility. He has conducted advocacy efforts on a local level by improving access to care for Jewish couples in Atlanta, as well as on a national level through research efforts for gender/sexual and racial/ethnic minorities. Additionally, Dr. Katler is an active member of the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) LGBTQ Special Interest Group.

As an avid researcher, Dr. Katler has contributed to numerous publications, presentations, and committees exploring such topics as LGBTQIA+ family-building, recurrent pregnancy loss, egg freezing, and infertility care for marginalized communities, among others. He is a member of several professional organizations, including ASRM, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), and Society of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (SREI).

Dr. Katler provides patient care at SGF’s Atlanta – Northside location. In his spare time, Dr. Katler enjoys yoga, tennis, and going on hikes and local adventures with his husband and two dogs.

Audrey Marsidi, MD

Audrey M. Marsidi, MD FACOG is an Assistant Professor and the Director of Third Party
Reproduction at the Emory Reproductive Center. She is a native of Tennessee, where she
completed her undergraduate and medical school training. She graduated with a BS in Biology from Rhodes College, where she also served as the Director of the Rhodes College Women’s Center and was awarded the Scholarship for Academic Excellence. While in medical school she served as Chair of the Student Women in Medicine, Co-Chair of the Obstetrics and Gynecology Interest Group, and was elected by her faculty and peers to serve as a member on the Honor Council and the Committee on Gender and Sexuality. Upon graduation from medical school at Quillen College of Medicine, she was awarded the Ann Tranum Hawkin’s Award for Excellence in Women’s Health.
She went on to complete residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Connecticut, where she was invited to present her research at multiple national conferences and received Best Research Award from Connecticut Research Day. She moved with to Atlanta in 2017 to complete her fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Emory University and joined the faculty as an Assistant Professor and Director of Third Party Reproduction. She is dedicated to providing individualized and compassionate, evidence-based fertility care.
Dr. Marsidi’s clinical interests include PCOS, Diminished ovarian reserve, Optimizing outcomes for patients with infertility, improving access to ART, fertility preservation, transgender fertility, and third-party reproduction. Her prior research has focused on fertility sparing treatments for patients with endometrial cancer, a laboratory model for in-vitro spermatogenesis, as well as national outcomes of in-vitro fertilization (IVF) associated with advanced paternal age using data from Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System. Dr. Marsidi has presented her work in peer-reviewed journals and at national scientific and clinical meetings, including American Society for Reproductive Medicine and Pacific Coast Reproductive Society.
Dr. Marsidi is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She has received numerous awards for Excellence in patient care and patient satisfaction. She is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, WPATH, and the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Dr. Marsidi’s interests outside of medicine include foreign travel, live music, scuba diving, acrylic painting, and spending time with her family.

Beth A. Malizia, MD

Dr. Malizia is a native of Montclair, New Jersey, and graduated magna cum laude from Cornell University where she was the recipient of the Top Female Scholar-Athlete Scholarship. Dr. Malizia received her medical degree from the University of North Carolina where she was the recipient of an NIH Research Training Grant and an International Medical Fellowship award. She subsequently completed a residency in Ob/Gyn at the University of Alabama at Birmingham in 2005, during which time she won the Argus Medical Student Association Best Resident Teacher Award and the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons Resident Achievement Award. In 2008, Dr. Malizia completed a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center where she was an instructor at Harvard Medical School. Her clinical training was at Boston IVF, one of the largest in vitro fertilization programs in the United States. The author of over 20 publications, Dr. Malizia’s research on in vitro fertilization outcomes has been published in multiple journals including the New England Journal of Medicine, the nation’s premier medical journal.

Dr. Malizia has been elected to the national listing of Best Doctors and has received the B Metro award for Top Women in Medicine. Dr. Malizia has served on several local and national committees including the SART Advertising Committee and is on the board of the International Association of Eating Disorders Professionals. Prior to her medical career, Dr. Malizia was a member of the Cornell University Lacrosse team and then worked at a large Wall Street investment bank. Dr. Malizia specializes in infertility and reproductive surgery. She welcomes patients with a range of issues including infertility, irregular periods, fibroids and pregnancy loss. She lives in Birmingham with her husband, four children and their black lab. Dr. Malizia enjoys photography and time at the lake with her family.

Bonnie Patel, MD

Dr. Bonnie Patel is a Board Certified Specialist in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at ACRM. Dr. Patel came to ACRM from Wake Forest University where she had been a practicing Reproductive Endocrinologist since 2012.

Dr. Patel completed her Fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Case Western Reserve University in 2015. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology from University of Georgia in 2004, graduating summa cum laude with Highest Honors. She then completed her Medical Degree at The Medical College of Georgia School of Medicine in Augusta, GA in 2008. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of South Carolina School of Medicine at Greenville Memorial Hospital, where she was elected by faculty and peers to serve as chief resident from 2011-2012. During residency, she was the recipient of the Thompson B. Gailey award for highest CREOG scores.

In addition to being a practicing Reproductive Endocrinologist at Wake Forest Baptist Health, Dr Patel also served as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Wake Forest University.

Dr. Bonnie Patel's clinical interests include oncofertility, assisted reproduction and minimally invasive surgery.

Dr. Patel is a member of American Society of Reproductive Medicine, American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Association of Gynecological Laparoscopists.

Dr. Bonnie Patel stated:“It is such a blessing to be able to help someone who has been struggling with infertility to finally achieve a pregnancy. I am looking forward to meeting new patients and helping them achieve their dreams of building a family.”

Roohi Jeelani, MD, FACOG

Roohi Jeelani, MD, FACOG, is a double board-certified Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI) specialist, nationally recognized for her leadership in fertility care and women’s health innovation. As both a physician and former fertility patient living with PCOS, Dr. Jeelani brings a rare combination of clinical expertise, scientific insight and personal understanding to every aspect of patient care.

Dr. Jeelani takes a proactive, patient-centered approach that integrates personalized care with evidence-based medicine. She views fertility as a critical indicator of overall health, which enables her to identify and address factors that influence well-being across the lifespan. Her focus is on delivering exceptional fertility outcomes while supporting long-term health.

As Founder and CEO of Onto Health, Dr. Jeelani is committed to expanding access to high-quality health care, building innovative clinical programs and ensuring every patient feels informed, supported and empowered on their path to parenthood.

This is a headshot for Dr. Alex Polotsky

Alex Polotsky, MD, M.Sc., FACOG

Alex Polotsky, M.D., M.Sc., FACOG, earned his medical degree from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in Bronx, New York. At first, he had a strong interest in becoming a general internal medicine doctor. But it was during his clinical rotations that he was exposed to reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and knew he wanted to dedicate his expertise to a narrow specialty where he is expected to be an expert in all aspects of fertility care rather than a broader field.

Upon completing his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at New York Presbyterian Hospital – Weill Cornell Medical Center, Dr. Polotsky returned to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine for his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility. While there, he subsequently earned his Master of Science degree in Clinical Research where his thesis extensively explored the links between adolescent obesity and reduced lifetime fertility. Dr. Polotsky has an extensive teaching record at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the University of Colorado where he became a full Professor of OB/GYN, Fellowship Director for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, and sat on many Doctoral/Master’s Thesis Committees.

Dr. Polotsky is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology as well as reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). He is a board examiner for REI with the American Board of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ABOG). His passion for REI stems from the field’s unique combination of medical management and surgical procedures along with the importance of psychological care for patients.

Beyond treating patients for infertility, Dr. Polotsky is actively involved in research. Key research focuses include the reproductive epidemiology and predictors of IVF success and connections between obesity and infertility as well as male infertility.

An avid contributor to peer-reviewed journals, Dr. Polotsky has published more than 80 articles featuring topics like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), assisted reproductive technology, connections between ethnicity and reproductive ability, effects of body mass on fertility (men and women), and more. He co-authored with Dr. Nanette Santoro a chapter entitled “Nutrition and Reproduction” for the Yen and Jaffe’s Reproductive Endocrinology, the most recommended book in the field. Additionally, his nearly 100 presentations on scientific abstracts have jet-set Dr. Polotsky to Italy, Canada, Switzerland, Austria, Israel as well as across the United States.

Dr. Polotsky sees patients in SGF Colorado’s Denver location. In his free time, Dr. Polotsky enjoys skiing, biking, and hiking with his wife and five children.

Dr Gary Levy - MAC

Gary Levy, MD

Dr. Levy is a board-certified Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility Specialist with decades of experience in reproductive medicine, including distinguished military service. His clinical expertise includes assisted reproductive technologies, ovarian stimulation, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids.

He is deeply committed to helping patients achieve their family-building goals and is known for his thorough, individualized approach to care. Dr. Levy carefully evaluates each patient’s medical history and prior treatment protocols to design personalized plans that optimize outcomes.

In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Levy is dedicated to advancing the field of reproductive medicine through education and academic leadership. He recently served as a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility board examiner for the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ABOG).

Dr. Levy earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan before being commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He completed his medical training at the Uniformed Services University, Tripler Army Medical Center, and the National Institutes of Health. He then served eleven years on active duty as a military physician, where he practiced reproductive medicine and trained future military doctors. During his service, he deployed to Afghanistan with the 101st Airborne Division.

Dr. Levy lives with his wife and their three children. Outside of his medical practice, he enjoys staying active through hockey, fitness, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu, and values spending time with his family.

Jessica Rubin, MD, MSCI

Jessica R. Rubin, MD MSCI, returned to her hometown of Atlanta to join the RBA team of physicians in 2018. She received her B.S. degrees in Science, Technology and Society as well as Hispanic Studies at Vassar College. Dr. Rubin earned her medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia. Motivated by her interest in women’s health, she completed a four-year residency at Emory University and is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Her residency training reinforced her passion for helping couples with reproductive struggles.

Dr. Rubin’s primary clinical interests include fertility preservation, in vitro fertilization, polycystic ovarian syndrome, third party reproduction, and diminished ovarian reserve. Additionally, Dr. Rubin focuses on fertility preservation for women before and after cancer therapy. She is a passionate patient advocate who is dedicated to providing a high-quality, individualized approach to fertility medicine.

Michael Scheiber, MD

Dr. Scheiber graduated with distinction from Stanford University, received his MD from the University of California at San Francisco, and completed his residency in OB/GYN at the University of California at San Diego.

He completed his fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Cincinnati and holds graduate degrees in both Public Health and Health & Medical Sciences from the University of California at Berkeley.

Dr. Scheiber is board-certified in both OB/GYN and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. He is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Dr. Scheiber is Director of Reproductive Research and Co-Director of the IVF program at IRH. He is also a Volunteer Associate Professor at the University of Cincinnati, College of Medicine.

In addition to performing laparoscopic laser, robotic, and pelvic reconstructive surgery, Dr. Scheiber has conducted research and has special interests in embryo development, ovarian stimulation, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Dr. Scheiber lives in Cincinnati with his wife and three daughters.

Daniel Shapiro, MD

Daniel B. Shapiro, M.D. joined Reproductive Biology Associates in 1995. A native of Miami, Florida, he graduated Magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. He then went on to medical school at Emory University School of Medicine in Atlanta and it was during this training that Dr. Shapiro first became interested in reproductive medicine by doing a research project with RBA in 1987.

Dr. Shapiro completed fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine in 1995. Since graduating from fellowship, he has authored and/or co-authored over 50 scientific papers. He is an invited speaker on a number of topics in reproductive medicine and was recently faculty for a post-graduate course at ASRM. He is nationally and internationally known for his work with GnRH antagonists in IVF treatment and has consulted with other practices regarding the efficient use of these drugs.

With the advances made in egg freezing by RBA's lab, under Dr. Peter Nagy, Dr. Shapiro led the effort to establish a working clinical model for RBA's egg bank. Since the opening of the frozen egg bank for egg donation in 2007, Dr. Shapiro has acted as its clinical manager. Prior to this and currently, Dr. Shapiro also serves as RBA's medical director. In addition to his work in ovulation induction for IVF, Dr. Shapiro has interest in the management of PCOS, endometriosis and reproductive surgery.

Dr. Shapiro is board-certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology/Infertility. He is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), and the Society of Reproductive Endocrinologists.

Dr. Shapiro is married with three children. In his spare time he enjoys water sports, skiing, Scrabble with his children, and playing bit parts in community theater.

Stephanie Smeltzer, MD

Stephanie Smeltzer, M.D., joined Atlanta Center for Reproductive Medicine in the summer of 2020. She completed her fellowship training at Duke University in North Carolina.

Dr. Smeltzer earned her undergraduate degree from Samford University and then received her M.D. from the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine. While at the University of Alabama, she received the John Di Placido Award, presented for Excellence in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Dr. Smeltzer completed her residency training at Baylor College of Medicine where she received the First Place Award for Resident Research Day from the Department of OB/GYN as well as Best Resident from the Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility.

She specializes in medical management, surgical management, and IVF. She is excited to come to Atlanta to join ACRM due to their national reputation for success rates, the expertise of physicians, and the friendliness of the staff, and is looking forward to helping her patients realize their dreams of having a family.

Dr. Smeltzer’s interests outside of medicine include golfing and spending time with her husband and son.

Jessica Spencer, MD

Dr. Spencer is the director of the Reproductive Endocrinology Division and Fellowship in the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics at Emory University. She attended the Sackler School of Medicine at Tel Aviv University in Israel and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. She then completed a fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and a Masters in Clinical Research at Emory before joining the faculty in 2008. She is board-certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Her research interests include premature ovarian insufficiency in girls and women with Classic Galactosemia, Fragile X premutation and in cancer survivors. She sees patients at the Emory Reproductive Center who need help getting pregnant or would benefit from advanced reproductive technologies including intrauterine insemination (IUI), in vitro fertilization (IVF) and preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD).
Dr. Daniel Stein, Headshot

Daniel E. Stein, MD

Dr. Daniel E. Stein is the Director of RMA of New York’s Westside office and is Chief of Reproductive Endocrinology at Mount Sinai West Hospital. Dr. Stein has over 24 years of experience as a Reproductive Endocrinologist and fertility specialist and served for eight years as Medical Director of the In Vitro Fertilization program of the former Continuum Reproductive Center before joining RMA of New York in 2014. He is board-certified in both obstetrics and gynecology and reproductive endocrinology and infertility. For the past several years Dr. Stein has been recognized by New York Magazine and Castle Connolly as one of New York’s “Best Doctors” as well as a “Top Doctor” by US News and World Report. He has also been included as one of the Best Doctors in America and has received multiple awards from patient advocacy groups for his years of service in the fields of reproductive medicine and fertility. Dr. Stein is recognized as a national leader in the field of reproductive medicine and is on the faculty of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. He formerly served for over 15 years on the teaching faculty of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Columbia University School of Medicine. He has authored and co-authored multiple manuscripts and scientific abstracts in both national and international journals.

Dr. Stein completed his residency training in obstetrics and gynecology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia (1995), and then completed his fellowship training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the UMDNJ-New Jersey Medical School (1997). His specialties include egg freezing, infertility, in vitro fertilization, recurrent implantation failure and recurrent miscarriages.

WHY JFF?

For 25 years I have devoted myself to helping infertile women and couples of all racial and ethnic backgrounds to achieve their dreams of having a child. As a proud Jewish man, father, and physician, I know how much fellow Jews depend on one another for support during the trials and tribulations of infertility. I am here to help.

This is a headshot of Dr. Eric Surrey

Eric S. Surrey, MD

Eric Surrey is a reproductive endocrinologist at the Colorado Center of Reproductive Medicine in Lone Tree, CO. His undergraduate education was completed at Harvard University and his medical degree was conferred by the University of Pennsylvania School Of Medicine. He is a board certified reproductive endocrinologist who completed residency and fellowship training in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the UCLA School of Medicine in Los Angeles, CA. Prior to joining CCRM in 1999, he was an Associate Clinical Professor of Ob-Gyn at UCLA and had been acting director of the Division of Reproductive Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and medical director of the Assisted Reproductive Technologies program at Century City Hospital in Los Angeles. He is a Past President of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, Society of Reproductive Surgeons and Pacific Coast Reproductive Society and past member of the Board of Directors of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and American Association of Gynecologic Laparoscopists. He served as Scientific Program Chair for the 2008 Annual Meeting of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and chair of the Research Review Committee of the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology. He has written and lectured extensively on the subjects of infertility, reproductive surgery, endometriosis, as well as numerous aspects of in vitro fertilization and the other assisted reproductive technologies. His research interests have included the impact of endometriosis on assisted reproductive technology outcomes, single embryo transfer and the care of the poor responder. He has been named one of America’s Top Doctors in Reproductive Endocrinology by Castle Connolly as chosen by his peers for over 20 consecutive years.

Suruchi Thakore, MD

Suruchi Thakore, MD
Medical Director, West Michigan
IVF Michigan and Ohio Fertility Centers

Dr. Suruchi Thakore is a physician specializing in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She is the Medical Director for the West Michigan offices of IVF Michigan and Ohio Fertility Centers. Prior to moving to Michigan, Dr. Thakore was the Division Director of the University of Cincinnati Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. Her clinical interests include third party reproduction, fertility preservation for single women and oncology patients, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and reproductive endocrine disorders. Her current research is focused on quality and performance improvement in the clinical setting, optimization of fertility procedures, social egg freezing, and fertility preservation. Dr. Thakore is a member of AMA, ACOG, SREI and ASR.

Dr. Thakore received her medical degree from the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo School of Medicine in 2009. In 2013, she completed her OB/GYN residency at the Women and Children’s Hospital in Buffalo, NY. In June 2016, she completed her Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Fellowship at University Hospitals at Case Western Reserve University and moved to UC Health Center for Reproductive Health at the University of Cincinnati. She is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinologist and Infertility.

Sandy Goodman, MD

Dr. Goodman is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as subspecialty board certified in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She is dedicated to providing cutting-edge care to individuals and couples struggling with fertility and reproductive health challenges. She is the recipient of the Excellence Award for Operative Laparoscopy and Operative Hysteroscopy. With a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach, Dr. Goodman is a trusted advocate for those seeking to build or expand their families. She serves as the Patient Education Director for The Reproductive Medicine Group.
Dr. Goodman received her undergraduate degree from Washington University in St. Louis
where she was elected to the Phi Beta Kappa Honor Society. She graduated from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School where she achieved membership to the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honor society. She received her residency training in Obstetrics and Gynecology from Harvard University’s Brigham and Women’s/Massachusetts General Hospital’s Program where she was distinguished as the Administrative Chief Resident. Dr. Goodman completed her fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institute. She joined The Reproductive Medicine Group in 2000.
She is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Society of
Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, the American Society of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, and the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Society. She is also involved with local organizations such as REVOLVE, The Springs of Tampa Bay, and Women in Crisis Center. Dr.Goodman has consistently been named among the Best Doctors in America.
Eduardo Hariton Headshot

Eduardo Hariton, MD

Eduardo Hariton is a board certified Ob/Gyn and board eligible reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist. He received his medical training at Harvard, where he completed a combined MD / MBA at Harvard Medical School and Harvard Business School and his Ob/Gyn residency at the Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. He completed his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the University of California, San Francisco. He is currently a practicing physician at the Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area in California. He also serves as the VP of Strategic Initiatives at US Fertility and the Managing Director of the USF Innovation Fund. Dr. Hariton combines his clinical and business backgrounds to treat patients and think creatively about how to improve the care they receive when seeking fertility services. He has published extensively on a broad range of topics ranging from infertility treatment outcomes to artificial intelligence, and his work has been published in high impact journals including Fertility and Sterility, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology. He also serves as an advisor to early stage healthcare companies.

Pamela Parker, MD, MPH, FACOG

Pam Parker, MD, MPH, FACOG is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology
(OB/GYN) and board eligible in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI). Dr.
Parker received her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry from the Honors program at
The University of Maryland - College Park. She went on to complete a dual-degree
program at West Virginia University School of Medicine, receiving both her medical
degree and a master’s in public health. She then completed her OB/GYN residency with
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA before moving to Portland,
OR, where she completed her fellowship training in REI at Oregon Health & Sciences
University. Dr. Parker is a member of The Gold Humanism Society and has received
several distinguished awards recognizing her commitment to patient care, advocacy,
research, and teaching. She has been invited to present her research at the local,
regional, and national level and has several peer-reviewed publications.
She is a fierce advocate for her patients and anyone in need of reproductive assistance.
Dr. Parker is passionate about expanding access to care, lobbying for reproductive
justice, and improving outcomes through evidence-based medical research. She has
worked locally to improve awareness of fertility preservation options among young
professionals within UPMC and The University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. She
also serves nationally with the American Society of Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) to
improve online educational modules for OB/GYN residents and serves as peer reviewer
for Fertility & Sterility and Obstetrics & Gynecology. She is a member of several
professional organizations including ASRM, The American College of Obstetricians &
Gynecologists (ACOG), The Society of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
(SREI), and The Association of Professors of Gynecology & Obstetrics (APGO).
She is currently an assistant professor at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, where
she serves as the associate program director for REI fellowship, the director of resident
education in REI, and the director of the Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Care Center at
UPMC. In her spare time, she enjoys theatre, music, new food stops, and spending time
with her husband, two boys, and golden retriever. She is a Pittsburgh native who grew
up in Squirrel Hill’s vibrant Jewish community and would love nothing more than to give
back to those in need.
Dr. Mersol-Barg headshot

Mike Mersol-Barg, MD

Dr. Michael Mersol-Barg is the Medical and Laboratory Director of Michigan
Reproductive Medicine. He is also an Associate Professor of Obstetrics &
Gynecology at Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine and at
Wayne State University School of Medicine.
He has been a high complexity laboratory director for over 25 years. Dr. Mersol-
Barg has served as an inspector for the College of American Pathologists’
Reproductive Laboratory Accreditation program, where he visited IVF labs
around the country to evaluate and advise them.
Dr. Mersol-Barg is a 2015-2017 Clinical Research/Reproductive Scientist
Training (CREST) Scholar which is a joint training program awarded by the
National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), the Clinical
Research Training Program (CRTP) at Duke University, and the American
Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). This is a highly competitive program
where only a few physicians throughout the country are chosen to participate.
After graduating from The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Dr. Mersol-
Barg completed his internship and residency training in OB/GYN at Johns
Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, MD. He then continued his fellowship training in
reproductive endocrinology & infertility at The Ohio State University. He received
the Berlex Research Foundation Faculty Development Award, which started his
interest and focus on evidence-based medicine. Dr. Mersol-Barg is board
certified in obstetrics & gynecology and in the subspecialty of reproductive
endocrinology & infertility. Dr. Mersol-Barg is on staff at Beaumont Health-Royal
Oak and Troy, Detroit Medical Center and St. Joseph Mercy Oakland.
An experienced and respected fertility doctor and scientist, Dr. Mersol-Barg has
published peer reviewed papers and ongoing research in the areas of hormone
therapy, IVF, egg freezing and pelvic surgery.
He has presented research findings and scientific data at both national and
international meetings. He serves as a reviewer for peer review journals such as
Fertility & Sterility and The Journal of Minimally Invasive Gynecology, currently
serving on their editorial board.
Dr. Mersol-Barg shows his commitment to serving the Michigan community as
president of the Michigan Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility
since 2002, and as president of the Michigan Oncofertility Society, which Dr.
Mersol-Barg founded in 2012 to educate doctors and patients on cancer and
fertility preservation here in Michigan. Our practice, Michigan Reproductive
Medicine, is a nationally recognized Oncofertility Center of Excellence and a
member of its Physician National Cooperative Network.
Dr. Mersol-Barg is the physician representative for Michigan in the national
SMART (States Monitoring Assisted Reproductive Technology) Collaborative,

which actively works with the Michigan Department of Health and Human
Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) towards
studying the health outcomes of mothers and babies born by means of assisted
reproductive technologies, such as IVF. Linking treatments to results will help
fertility doctors improve and optimize their care for men and women needing
therapy. Dr. Mersol-Barg is a co-author on studies published and ongoing
through the SMART Collaborative. He was elected in 2010 as the current Chair
of the State of Michigan’s Fertility Advisory Committee, which works with
Michigan’s Department of Health and Human Services.
Dr. Mersol-Barg’s peers have voted for him as one of Hour Magazine’s “Top
Docs” for many years, including the current award for 2022-2023. A large number
of physicians have further honored him by choosing Dr. Mersol-Barg for their
medical care. A national independent group named Dr. Mersol-Barg a “Super
Doctor”, the Expert Network recently named him a “Distinguished Doctor” for
being in the top 3% of physicians in the United States, and US News and World
Report recognizes Dr. Mersol-Barg as a “Top Doctor”.

heashot of Dr. Budrys

Nicole Budrys, MD

From Michigan Center for Fertility and Women's Health, Dr. Nicole Budrys is a double board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and pediatric gynecologist. She believes in treating the whole person, not just a specific symptom. Dr. Budrys’ interests include female and male fertility, menstrual disorders, premature ovarian failure, pediatric and adolescent gynecology.

A true Michigan girl, she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, before attending Wayne State University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in OB/GYN at Royal Oak Beaumont and her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at the University of Texas Health Science Center San Antonio. She began her career with the University of Oklahoma before returning to Michigan; first at Henry Ford and now as part of the Michigan Center for Fertility & Women’s Health medical team.

Dr. Illions Headshot

Edward Illions, MD

Dr. Illions joined the Center in 2021. Previously, he was the Medical Director of the Advanced Reproductive Medicine section at the University of Colorado. And previously, he was the practice director at the Montefiore’s Institute for Reproductive Medicine at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. In addition, he developed and led their Fertility Preservation Program.

He completed his fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology while in the US Air Force at the National Institutes of Health and Walter Reed Army Medical Center. He acquired training in reproductive surgery, advanced reproductive technologies including in-vitro fertilization, and the management of complex endocrine disorders in women. He completed his medical career in the Air Force in 1993 as a Lieutenant Colonel. He joined the faculty at the University of Florida as the Director of Reproductive Endocrinology in the Jacksonville campus.

He has a keen interest in fertility preservation, reproductive surgery, and recurrent pregnancy loss. He strives to offer comprehensive, evidence-based medical care in a compassionate and personalized setting. He believes that physicians must be good listeners to supply the individualized care that patients have come to expect and endeavors to help patients achieve their family-building goals.

Dr. Bauer's heads hot

Jessica Bauer, MD, MS, FACOG

Jessica Bauer, MD, MS, FACOG is double board certified in Obstetrics & Gynecology as well as Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility. As a fertility specialist, Dr. Bauer is committed to a patient-centered approach to all aspects of fertility and reproduction. She values cultivating relationships with patients, partners, and family members to achieve the best possible outcomes. Dr. Bauer firmly believes patient care should be grounded in education. She prides herself on giving her patients ample time to discuss, create, and execute treatment plans that are individualized for each couple.
Dr. Bauer’s areas of interest include fertility awareness and fertility preservation among all individuals who are considering becoming parents. She also enjoys management of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), uterine fibroids, endometriosis, all aspects of male infertility, as well as couples interested in the use of egg and sperm donors and gestational carriers (surrogacy). Dr. Bauer is also committed to education and family building in the LGBTQIA+ community. Dr. Bauer speaks Spanish and is pleased to serve the community of Colorado. Dr. Bauer lives in Colorado with her husband, son and mini poodle, Penelope. In addition to long walks and the dog park, they enjoy spending time boating and eating good food with family and friends. She is
thrilled to join the exceptional JFF Medical Advisory Council!
“ Let your hopes, not your hurts, shape your future. ”
– Robert Schuller

Rachel Weinerman, MD

Rachel Weinerman, MD is an Associate Professor at Case Western Reserve University and a
Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility specialist at University Hospitals in Cleveland, OH,
where she is the Program Director for the REI Fellowship. She attended Harvard Medical School
and completed OB/GYN training at NYU followed by REI fellowship at the University of
Pennsylvania. Dr. Weinerman specializes in complex fertility and recurrent pregnancy loss care
and is also the Director of Third-Party Reproduction at University Hospitals. Her research
interests include the impact of assisted reproductive technology procedures on implantation
environment and neonatal outcomes, and she investigates these areas through clinical and
translational methods. She has published numerous research papers, book chapters, and
editorials and serves on national committees for the American Society for Reproductive
Medicine, the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology, and the Society for Assisted
Reproductive Technology. Dr. Weinerman is a passionate teacher and educator of medical
students, residents, and fellows and is a nationally-renowned educator in the field of
Reproductive Endocrinology.
headshot of Dr. Carrie Bedient

Carrie Bedient, MD

Dr. Carrie Bedient is a dual board certified in both obstetrics and gynecology as well as
reproductive endocrinology and infertility, with advanced training in minimally invasive robotic and laparoscopic surgery. She is a member of the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, the
American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the Pacific Coast Reproductive Society.

After graduating from the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Dr. Bedient completed her residency at Case Western Reserve University & Cleveland Clinic Foundation Metrohealth Medical Center, followed by fellowship training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Emory University. She has pursued advanced training in minimally invasive surgery to correct uterine anomalies, endometriosis and other gynecological issues. Dr. Bedient also serves as the director of reproductive endocrinology and infertility at MountainView OB/GYN residency and a clinical associate professor at the University of Nevada School of Medicine’s Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

Since joining The Fertility Center of Las Vegas, she has won two research awards from the Pacific Coast Reproductive Society, along with awards for LGBTQ ally, Las Vegas 40 under 40, and yearly Las Vegas Top Docs recognition starting in 2018. She has been a guest on multiple podcasts, appeared on Channel 5 for multiple interviews, and was featured in the “Day In the Life …” series on YouTube. Nationally recognized, she has also earned the Khalid Ataya Excellence in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Award. Dr. Bedient is also the Co-Founder of the Fertility Docs Uncensored podcast where she, together with her co-hosts, discusses a wide range of fertility related topics in an approachable, easy to understand style.

As Nevada’s first female board certified reproductive endocrinologist, Dr. Bedient feels privileged to help men and women reach their full family-building potential. A champion of reproductive freedom, Dr. Bedient is particularly interested in fertility preservation for patients undergoing toxic therapies for medical conditions such as cancer, as well as third party reproduction for same-sex couples and LGBTQ individuals. Known for her kindness and warm bedside manner, Dr. Bedient is a role model for empathy, compassion, respect, altruism and integrity in medicine.

Headshot of Dr. Leah Roberts

Leah Roberts, MD

Leah Roberts, M.D. is a native of South Florida who has brought her passion for reproductive endocrinology and fertility care to Boca Raton. She graduated cum laude from the University of Florida Honors program where she completed her Bachelor's of Science in Biology and a minor in English. She received her M.D. from Florida Atlantic University where she served as the Vice President of her class. She then completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency in Philadelphia at Temple University. After graduation, Dr. Roberts continued at Temple as an Assistant Professor of OB-GYN, teaching both residents and medical students, until she left to pursue her fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at Reproductive Medicine Associates in New Jersey. While at RMANJ she additionally trained as an embryologist, which provided her with invaluable experience in the clinical laboratory.
Dr. Roberts has presented her research at several national meetings including ASRM, PCRS, CREOG/APGO, AUGS/IUGA, and the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, on topics as varied as ovarian aging and patient engagement with care. She has also been an active participant in lobbying for your reproductive rights and infertility coverage on the state and national level with RESOLVE and ACOG. Dr. Roberts is a distinguished Clinical Affiliate Assistant Professor of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility in the Department of Women’s and Children’s Health at Florida Atlantic University’s Charles E Schmidt College of Medicine.

Sarah Cromack, MD

Sarah Capelouto Cromack, MD, is an Assistant Professor at the Emory Reproductive Center, where she joined the faculty in 2025 following completion of her fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Northwestern University.
A native of Atlanta, Dr. Cromack’s family has long been active in both the Sephardic and Ashkenazi Jewish communities. Her great uncle was one of the founding charter members of Congregation Or VeShalom, and her personal interest in her Jewish roots led her to pursue—and be granted—Spanish citizenship through her Sephardic ancestry.
Dr. Cromack graduated summa cum laude from Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience and Spanish. She earned her medical degree and graduated summa cum laude from Emory University School of Medicine. She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at UT Southwestern/Parkland Hospital, where she received numerous honors, including the Outstanding Resident Teacher Award, the Southwestern Gynecologic Assembly’s Outstanding Senior Resident Award, and the Academic Excellence Award, as well as being inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society.
Dr. Cromack research interests include oncofertility and medical fertility preservation, preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic diseases, and the use of sleep and wearable devices during fertility treatment. Her work has been presented at national scientific and clinical meetings, including the American Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Society for Reproductive Investigation, and published in several peer-reviewed journals. She is board certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and board eligible in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. In her clinical practice she strives to combine scientific rigor with empathy, offering fertility care that is both evidence-driven and uniquely responsive to each patient’s individual journey. In her spare time, Dr. Cromack enjoys playing guitar, listening to audiobooks, and spending time with her family.

Hilary Friedlander, MD, FACOG

Hilary S. Friedlander, MD, FACOG is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist (OB/GYN) and board-eligible reproductive endocrinology and infertility (REI) specialist practicing at Atlantic Fertility (Raleigh, NC).

Born and raised in New York in a medical family, she developed an early fascination with human reproduction, one that began as early as high school, when she chose pregnancy as the theme of her AP 3D art portfolio and earned best-in-show for a ceramic pregnant bust. She went on to attend Emory University, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration from the Goizueta Business School. She later earned her MD with Distinction in Research from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine (Bronx, NY) where she held multiple national leadership positions within the American Medical Women’s Association and was honored with the AMWA Glasgow-Rubin Achievement Award. Dr. Friedlander then went on to complete her Obstetrics and Gynecology residency at New York University, where she cultivated her passion for REI and served as a chief resident. She later moved back down south to complete her subspecialty fellowship training in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Duke University, falling in love with the Triangle, and ultimately deciding to build her career in North Carolina.

Dr. Friedlander’s research centers on improving evidence-based fertility care across the reproductive spectrum. Her work includes investigations into fertility preservation for patients undergoing gonadotoxic treatment, ovarian stimulation characteristics based on intended embryo transfer strategy, and the relationship between embryo grading, cryopreservation parameters, and live birth outcomes. She has completed SART-supported research studies, authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and textbook chapters, and presented numerous abstracts at national meetings including ASRM, PCRS, MWIA, and SRI. Her academic interests reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that clinical decision-making is grounded in data, transparency, and individualized patient goals. She is deeply committed to helping individuals and couples build families in a way that aligns with their values, timing, and lived experiences.

As an active member of the Jewish community, Dr. Friedlander is passionate about advancing fertility awareness, education, and support within Jewish spaces. She is honored to serve on the Jewish Fertility Foundation’s Medical Advisory Council and to contribute to its mission of ensuring that every Jewish individual and family has access to informed, empathetic, and equitable reproductive care.

Outside of medicine, you can find Dr. Friedlander herding her three tiny humans, translating her husband's Australian slang, convincing her labradoodle she's not the bottom of the totem pole, exercising at Burn Bootcamp, and trialing every New York Time's featured recipe.

Valerie Libby -MAC

Valerie Libby, MD, MPH, FACOG

Valerie Libby, MD, MPH, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist and board-eligible reproductive endocrinologist specializing in infertility care. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, following undergraduate studies in Psychology and Spanish through the University of Texas at Austin Honors Program. Dr. Libby also holds a Master’s degree in Global Public Health from George Washington University and served as a Global Health Service fellow in Kenya.

She completed her OB/GYN residency at Parkland Hospital at UT Southwestern Medical Center and went on to complete a three-year fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center/Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Libby has expertise in diagnosing and treating infertility, including polycystic ovary syndrome, male factor infertility, ovarian aging, fertility preservation, and elective egg freezing.

Dr. Libby has received numerous professional honors, including the Award for Excellence in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility from UT Southwestern and recognition as an American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) Prize Paper Candidate. She has presented research on IVF outcomes at national conferences and has held leadership roles with the American Medical Student Association, American Medical Women’s Association, and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

An Atlanta native, Dr. Libby joined Shady Grove Fertility in September 2020 and sees patients at the Sandy Springs location. Fluent in Spanish, she enjoys tennis, biking, cooking, and travel. After undergoing egg freezing herself, she brings a deeply personal passion for reproductive planning to her work.

Dr. Jonah Bardos - MAC

Jonah D. Bardos, MD, MBE, FACOG

Dr. Jonah D. Bardos, MD, MBE, FACOG is a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist with over a decade of clinical experience in women’s health and fertility care. He is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, and is fellowship trained in reproductive genetics and recurrent pregnancy loss.

Throughout his career, Dr. Bardos has focused on delivering thoughtful, evidence-based care while advancing the use of precision medicine in reproductive health. His clinical interests include infertility, IVF, recurrent pregnancy loss, polycystic ovary syndrome, and genetic screening, with a particular emphasis on integrating cutting-edge science into highly personalized treatment plans.

Dr. Bardos has held leadership roles as a medical director and has been instrumental in building and overseeing fertility programs, including andrology and IVF laboratory services. His experience spans both large academic-affiliated practices and boutique clinical settings, giving him a unique perspective on quality, scalability, and patient-centered care delivery.
In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Bardos is actively involved in research and education, with ongoing interests in reproductive genetics and the reproductive tract microbiome. He is committed to advancing standards of care through innovation, collaboration, and thoughtful clinical governance.

Dr. Bardos is passionate about contributing to initiatives that improve patient outcomes, uphold the highest medical standards, and shape the future of reproductive medicine. He lives with his wife and 5 children in Surfside, Florida.

Michael Traub, MD

Dr. Michael Traub is board certified in both Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and Obstetrics and Gynecology. He completed his fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in the Bronx, New York, where he subsequently served on faculty until 2009.

Dr. Traub serves as Medical Director, IVF Director, and Director of the Third Party Reproduction program, which encompasses donor egg, donor embryo, and gestational carriers. He is one of the owners of the practice. Among the most active reproductive robotic surgeons in the tri-state area, Dr. Traub is widely recognized for his expertise in the surgical management of fibroids and endometriosis, having performed more than 2,000 robotic procedures.

Dr. Traub holds the position of Director of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Richmond University Medical Center in Staten Island, New York, and serves as Assistant Professor at Staten Island University Hospital.
He earned his medical degree with Distinction in Research from St. Louis University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri, and completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, where he also served as Chief Resident.

Dr. Traub received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Michigan Honors Program in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He has been the recipient of research awards and has published and presented on a range of topics in his field. Outside of medicine, Dr. Traub is an enthusiastic supporter of the New York Jets, St. Louis Cardinals, and Michigan Wolverines.

Josh Morris, MD, FACOG

Dr. Josh Morris is a Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility physician at Extend Fertility, providing comprehensive infertility and reproductive surgery care for patients in Manhattan, NY and Jackson, NJ. Born and raised in New Jersey, he is dedicated to helping individuals and couples navigate fertility care with clarity, compassion, and practical guidance.

Dr. Morris earned his medical degree from Tel Aviv University and completed a Master of Science in Medical Ethics and Law at King's College London, with a focus on reproductive ethics and policy. He completed his residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and his fellowship in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Eastern Virginia Medical School–Jones Institute.

His clinical and research interests include fertility preservation, ovarian aging, reproductive genetics, and complex reproductive decision-making. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Morris holds an appointment as Assistant Professor at Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine, where he has been actively involved in the education of medical students and residents. He serves as an ad-hoc peer reviewer for leading journals in obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive medicine, and is an active member of professional organizations including ACOG and ASRM.

Dr. Morris believes that fertility care should be both evidence-based and deeply personal. His approach centers on clear communication, individualized treatment, and empowering patients to make informed decisions aligned with their medical needs, values, and family-building goals. He resides in Jackson, New Jersey with his wife and five children.

Josh Skorupski

Dr. Skorupski completed his undergraduate degree in chemistry at Binghamton University in New York prior to attending medical school at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa, Israel. He returned to New York to complete his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at St. Luke’s- Roosevelt Hospital in Manhattan. He then attended Baylor College of Medicine to complete his clinical genetics training, followed by a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the University of Michigan. Dr. Skorupski’s clinical interests include the psychological impact of infertility treatments, fertility preservation in cancer patients and rare genetic syndromes.

Dr. Skorupski brings a unique perspective to reproductive medicine by combining his knowledge of clinical genetics with his insight into the treatment of couples with fertility challenges. Dr. Skorupski is board certified in reproductive endocrinology and infertility in addition to obstetrics and gynecology. He has authored numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and has presented his work nationally. Dr. Skorupski is an active fellow in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

ADDITIONAL MEDICAL ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS (NOT PICTURED):

  • Michael Levy, MD
  • Priya Maseelall, MD, FACOG
  • Susan Sarajari, MD, FACOG
  • Minna Selub, MD, FACOG
  • Zev Williams, MD, PHD