BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Armando 'Yosef' Hernandez
President
I was born and raised in Ventura, CA, then came to the San Francisco Bay Area for college and graduate school. I am a product of the Jewish campus experience. My formative years were spent actively participating in Hillel at Stanford and Santa Cruz Hillel, where I worked to bring fellow Jews together for Erev Shabbat dinners, services at local synagogues, Israel advocacy activities, as well as Jewish cultural and educational events on campus. While living in a kibbutz-style Jewish co-operative in college, I met my wife, Yohkheved. Today, I work as a biochemist in the Bay Area biopharmaceutical industry.
In 2021, we had the opportunity to move to the North Bay, and we chose to live in Sonoma because of its rich California history, beautiful scenery, tranquil living, and family-focused communities. Being a member of Congregation Shir Shalom has been an amazing experience, and it has given me the opportunity to build strong ties with the Sonoma Valley Jewish community. Working with Rabbi Finley, Yaffa, and CSS members over the past few years to co-lead Shabbat services, participate in the Lifelong Learning Committee, and bring people together has been a blessing and continues to enrich my Jewish experience. I look forward to working with fellow CSS Board members to secure the future of Congregation Shir Shalom for years to come.
President
I was born and raised in Ventura, CA, then came to the San Francisco Bay Area for college and graduate school. I am a product of the Jewish campus experience. My formative years were spent actively participating in Hillel at Stanford and Santa Cruz Hillel, where I worked to bring fellow Jews together for Erev Shabbat dinners, services at local synagogues, Israel advocacy activities, as well as Jewish cultural and educational events on campus. While living in a kibbutz-style Jewish co-operative in college, I met my wife, Yohkheved. Today, I work as a biochemist in the Bay Area biopharmaceutical industry.
In 2021, we had the opportunity to move to the North Bay, and we chose to live in Sonoma because of its rich California history, beautiful scenery, tranquil living, and family-focused communities. Being a member of Congregation Shir Shalom has been an amazing experience, and it has given me the opportunity to build strong ties with the Sonoma Valley Jewish community. Working with Rabbi Finley, Yaffa, and CSS members over the past few years to co-lead Shabbat services, participate in the Lifelong Learning Committee, and bring people together has been a blessing and continues to enrich my Jewish experience. I look forward to working with fellow CSS Board members to secure the future of Congregation Shir Shalom for years to come.
Matt Nydell
Treasurer
I am a seasoned corporate lawyer and executive, supporting small start-ups to global multinationals for over 35 years. Aside from my role as General Counsel for many companies, I have served as head of HR, Investor Relations, Corporate Development, Information Technology, Software Development, and even Marketing at various times in my career. I have over 25 years of experience in corporate governance, serving on many for-profit and not-for-profit corporate boards, both as a member and as corporate secretary.
My most memorable “role” was as “First Husband” at Congregation Beth Jacob in Plymouth, MA, which I dutifully served during my wife Marjorie’s four-year reign as president. We have been married for over 40 years and now live in the scenic foothills of Napa County on a 20-acre ranch. We are blessed with a wonderful son and daughter-in-law (Jonathan & Katie), together with a princess of a granddaughter, Leila, and our new grandson Caleb. I'm very excited about serving on the Shir Shalom Board and contributing to its future success.
Treasurer
I am a seasoned corporate lawyer and executive, supporting small start-ups to global multinationals for over 35 years. Aside from my role as General Counsel for many companies, I have served as head of HR, Investor Relations, Corporate Development, Information Technology, Software Development, and even Marketing at various times in my career. I have over 25 years of experience in corporate governance, serving on many for-profit and not-for-profit corporate boards, both as a member and as corporate secretary.
My most memorable “role” was as “First Husband” at Congregation Beth Jacob in Plymouth, MA, which I dutifully served during my wife Marjorie’s four-year reign as president. We have been married for over 40 years and now live in the scenic foothills of Napa County on a 20-acre ranch. We are blessed with a wonderful son and daughter-in-law (Jonathan & Katie), together with a princess of a granddaughter, Leila, and our new grandson Caleb. I'm very excited about serving on the Shir Shalom Board and contributing to its future success.
Linda Goldman
Secretary
I was born and grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. After moving around the country searching for my place, I settled in California in 1984. I lived in San Francisco and Berkeley/Oakland until 2005, and then discovered bucolic Sonoma and never looked back.
My professional life has been that of a social worker, with a few years interspersed dabbling in real estate. My range of experience has been working with individuals and families in home health care, assisted living, or nursing home care; this includes being a manager and supervisor in those settings. I've been an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) for many years and still wear that badge with honor. Locally, I was Director of Social Services at Spring Lake Village in Santa Rosa, followed by a semi-retirement position at Healing at Home in Sonoma. I'm now fully retired, but once a social worker, always a social worker. I still identify strongly with that aspect of my life.
I found my passion as a volunteer/tutor at the CSS Hebrew School. Although my Hebrew is still a bit rusty, I manage to stay a few steps ahead of the students, and I am energized by the students’ enthusiasm and dedication. I am glad to have found a home within the Shir Shalom community and continue my commitment to the Board.
Secretary
I was born and grew up in Pittsburgh, PA. After moving around the country searching for my place, I settled in California in 1984. I lived in San Francisco and Berkeley/Oakland until 2005, and then discovered bucolic Sonoma and never looked back.
My professional life has been that of a social worker, with a few years interspersed dabbling in real estate. My range of experience has been working with individuals and families in home health care, assisted living, or nursing home care; this includes being a manager and supervisor in those settings. I've been an LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) for many years and still wear that badge with honor. Locally, I was Director of Social Services at Spring Lake Village in Santa Rosa, followed by a semi-retirement position at Healing at Home in Sonoma. I'm now fully retired, but once a social worker, always a social worker. I still identify strongly with that aspect of my life.
I found my passion as a volunteer/tutor at the CSS Hebrew School. Although my Hebrew is still a bit rusty, I manage to stay a few steps ahead of the students, and I am energized by the students’ enthusiasm and dedication. I am glad to have found a home within the Shir Shalom community and continue my commitment to the Board.
Sean Bellach
I grew up in Kenwood and am a fifth-generation resident of Sonoma County. After graduating from the University of Colorado, I began my career in the wine industry and later transitioned into politics, where I have worked in government relations for more than 20 years.
My wife, Kim, is a native of Sonoma Valley and works as an elementary school counselor. Our children, Louis and Emma, attend Shir Shalom Hebrew School as they prepare for their B’nai Mitzvah. We live in El Verano, near Sonoma Creek, and as a family, we enjoy the mountains, snow, and traveling together on large family vacations.
Over the past few years, it has been gratifying to see Shir Shalom Hebrew School grow and thrive. As a parent, I value how children are actively involved in regular services and holiday celebrations. As a Board Member, I hope to bring the perspective of the many parents and families who make up our congregation. The Shir Shalom community is a meaningful part of our lives, and it is an honor to serve on the Board of Directors.
I grew up in Kenwood and am a fifth-generation resident of Sonoma County. After graduating from the University of Colorado, I began my career in the wine industry and later transitioned into politics, where I have worked in government relations for more than 20 years.
My wife, Kim, is a native of Sonoma Valley and works as an elementary school counselor. Our children, Louis and Emma, attend Shir Shalom Hebrew School as they prepare for their B’nai Mitzvah. We live in El Verano, near Sonoma Creek, and as a family, we enjoy the mountains, snow, and traveling together on large family vacations.
Over the past few years, it has been gratifying to see Shir Shalom Hebrew School grow and thrive. As a parent, I value how children are actively involved in regular services and holiday celebrations. As a Board Member, I hope to bring the perspective of the many parents and families who make up our congregation. The Shir Shalom community is a meaningful part of our lives, and it is an honor to serve on the Board of Directors.
Susan Gertz
I was born in Boston, though I spent most of my life living in upstate New York. My husband Ken and I relocated to Washington, DC, after our children were grown, then moved to Petaluma when Ken retired in 2016.
I began my professional career as a licensed Social Worker, working in a wide range of positions from therapist to managing non-profit agencies. After earning a Master of Business Administration, I had a fellowship with a state budgeting agency, which ultimately led to a career in managed care. I worked at Kaiser Permanente for over 20 years as one of the leaders running its Medicare Program. My responsibilities ranged from strategy, finance, regulatory, sales & marketing, execution of large programs, mergers/acquisitions, and coaching and mentoring future leaders.
I was born Catholic, though I raised my children in the Jewish faith. When we moved to Petaluma, we were told about this wonderful Jewish community at Shir Shalom. From our first service, where Rabbi Steve, Yaffa, and the congregation were so welcoming, to celebrating my B’not Mitzvah with Rabbi Steve and my fellow sisters, Shir Shalom has become our family.
I have been an active member of Shir Shalom since 2017 and Sisterhood President from 2019 until recently “retiring”. During that time, Sisterhood nearly doubled its membership and programming. I am also a member of the Social Action Committee and helped launch our first-ever “Family Fair”. I am very excited about serving on the Shir Shalom Board and contributing to its future success.
I was born in Boston, though I spent most of my life living in upstate New York. My husband Ken and I relocated to Washington, DC, after our children were grown, then moved to Petaluma when Ken retired in 2016.
I began my professional career as a licensed Social Worker, working in a wide range of positions from therapist to managing non-profit agencies. After earning a Master of Business Administration, I had a fellowship with a state budgeting agency, which ultimately led to a career in managed care. I worked at Kaiser Permanente for over 20 years as one of the leaders running its Medicare Program. My responsibilities ranged from strategy, finance, regulatory, sales & marketing, execution of large programs, mergers/acquisitions, and coaching and mentoring future leaders.
I was born Catholic, though I raised my children in the Jewish faith. When we moved to Petaluma, we were told about this wonderful Jewish community at Shir Shalom. From our first service, where Rabbi Steve, Yaffa, and the congregation were so welcoming, to celebrating my B’not Mitzvah with Rabbi Steve and my fellow sisters, Shir Shalom has become our family.
I have been an active member of Shir Shalom since 2017 and Sisterhood President from 2019 until recently “retiring”. During that time, Sisterhood nearly doubled its membership and programming. I am also a member of the Social Action Committee and helped launch our first-ever “Family Fair”. I am very excited about serving on the Shir Shalom Board and contributing to its future success.
Sharon Malakoff
Membership
I was born in New York City, raised on Long Island, and went to college in upstate New York. Following what has become a typical migration, I moved to San Francisco in 1989, then made my way north, first to Marin and in 2013, Sonoma.
My professional career began as a Recreation Therapist, working with physically disabled children and adults in rehabilitation hospital settings. That was followed by 30-plus years in the scientific/research and development industry, starting in advertising sales and finishing with helping global corporations make decisions on product development.
Retired since April 2020, my focus has been on enjoying and contributing to this amazing Sonoma community. Volunteering with the Mentoring Alliance and serving as a Mentor, working with other local non-profits, hiking the beautiful trails, and developing meaningful relationships have been most rewarding.
Joining Shir Shalom 13 years ago, I had no idea I’d find such an inclusive spiritual home and an amazing group of friends.
As part of the Board, I bring six years’ experience as Membership Chair. Conversations with prospective members provide me with a unique perspective and insight into why people consider joining CSS and what goes into their decision to ultimately do so.
Having recently been part of the Strategic Planning committee, our leadership’s commitment to Shir Shalom’s continued success is evident. It is the motivation for wanting to contribute more.
This is an exciting time in our history… approaching our 30-year anniversary with a solid strategic plan. I’m excited to work with this incredible Board, Rabbi Steve and Yaffa, and our remarkable congregation to help CSS continue to thrive as the Center of Jewish Life in Sonoma Valley.
Membership
I was born in New York City, raised on Long Island, and went to college in upstate New York. Following what has become a typical migration, I moved to San Francisco in 1989, then made my way north, first to Marin and in 2013, Sonoma.
My professional career began as a Recreation Therapist, working with physically disabled children and adults in rehabilitation hospital settings. That was followed by 30-plus years in the scientific/research and development industry, starting in advertising sales and finishing with helping global corporations make decisions on product development.
Retired since April 2020, my focus has been on enjoying and contributing to this amazing Sonoma community. Volunteering with the Mentoring Alliance and serving as a Mentor, working with other local non-profits, hiking the beautiful trails, and developing meaningful relationships have been most rewarding.
Joining Shir Shalom 13 years ago, I had no idea I’d find such an inclusive spiritual home and an amazing group of friends.
As part of the Board, I bring six years’ experience as Membership Chair. Conversations with prospective members provide me with a unique perspective and insight into why people consider joining CSS and what goes into their decision to ultimately do so.
Having recently been part of the Strategic Planning committee, our leadership’s commitment to Shir Shalom’s continued success is evident. It is the motivation for wanting to contribute more.
This is an exciting time in our history… approaching our 30-year anniversary with a solid strategic plan. I’m excited to work with this incredible Board, Rabbi Steve and Yaffa, and our remarkable congregation to help CSS continue to thrive as the Center of Jewish Life in Sonoma Valley.
Lew Perlson
I was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After attending the University of Wisconsin Business School and Law School, I returned to Milwaukee to practice law with a speciality in estate planning.
My wife, Bev, and I moved to Sonoma following my retirement to be near our sons and their families. We love and appreciate the full Sonoma Valley community.
My nonprofit involvement began in Milwaukee, where I was Board President of Congregation Sinai and Jewish Family Services of Milwaukee. Bev and I also served as Co-Presidents of Bookfellows - Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library. Since moving to Sonoma, I have served as a Board member of the Sonoma Valley Fund and Board Chair of Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance.
We joined CSS in 2010, and I have been active in the Men’s Club and Governance, Legacy and Social Action Committees. I joined the CSS Board in 2026 as I value the strong CSS community and want to preserve it for the current and future generations.
I was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. After attending the University of Wisconsin Business School and Law School, I returned to Milwaukee to practice law with a speciality in estate planning.
My wife, Bev, and I moved to Sonoma following my retirement to be near our sons and their families. We love and appreciate the full Sonoma Valley community.
My nonprofit involvement began in Milwaukee, where I was Board President of Congregation Sinai and Jewish Family Services of Milwaukee. Bev and I also served as Co-Presidents of Bookfellows - Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library. Since moving to Sonoma, I have served as a Board member of the Sonoma Valley Fund and Board Chair of Sonoma Valley Mentoring Alliance.
We joined CSS in 2010, and I have been active in the Men’s Club and Governance, Legacy and Social Action Committees. I joined the CSS Board in 2026 as I value the strong CSS community and want to preserve it for the current and future generations.
Sydney S. Randazzo
Communications
As a native Californians and 3rd-generation Angelinos, my husband John and I moved full-time to Sonoma from Mill Valley 17 years ago. Prior to retiring, I worked in the San Francisco advertising industry for 10 years before opening a consulting business specializing in media planning. That led me to Sonoma and a 25-year relationship with Spanish winemaker Freixenet USA and their local subsidiary, Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards.
Volunteer work has always been an important part of my life. While living in Mill Valley, I served on the Board of To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation, as chair of the grants committee, Vice President, and eventually, President of the Board. To Celebrate Life provides education and support services for women, men, and their families who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. In Sonoma, I was a member of Impact100 for nine years and served on both the Impact Grant and Community Grant committees. I joined the Board of Directors of Impact and was later named President of the Board, serving for two years. As a member of Impact, I learned about the many nonprofits that serve the Sonoma Valley, including Teen Services Sonoma, which led me to join their Board, culminating with their merger with the Boys & Girls Clubs in 2020.
John and I have worked on various CSS committees over the past 9 years, and as a member of the CSS Board, I look forward to continuing to contribute to its success, growth, and presence in Sonoma Valley.
Communications
As a native Californians and 3rd-generation Angelinos, my husband John and I moved full-time to Sonoma from Mill Valley 17 years ago. Prior to retiring, I worked in the San Francisco advertising industry for 10 years before opening a consulting business specializing in media planning. That led me to Sonoma and a 25-year relationship with Spanish winemaker Freixenet USA and their local subsidiary, Gloria Ferrer Caves & Vineyards.
Volunteer work has always been an important part of my life. While living in Mill Valley, I served on the Board of To Celebrate Life Breast Cancer Foundation, as chair of the grants committee, Vice President, and eventually, President of the Board. To Celebrate Life provides education and support services for women, men, and their families who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. In Sonoma, I was a member of Impact100 for nine years and served on both the Impact Grant and Community Grant committees. I joined the Board of Directors of Impact and was later named President of the Board, serving for two years. As a member of Impact, I learned about the many nonprofits that serve the Sonoma Valley, including Teen Services Sonoma, which led me to join their Board, culminating with their merger with the Boys & Girls Clubs in 2020.
John and I have worked on various CSS committees over the past 9 years, and as a member of the CSS Board, I look forward to continuing to contribute to its success, growth, and presence in Sonoma Valley.
Ken Wornick
I'm a 30-year career grape grower and winemaker. I've sat on numerous religious and cultural boards, including as Chair of the Board of the Jewish Day School in Foster City, in officer positions at the “J” (the SF Jewish Newspaper), AIPAC, SF Federation, and in active roles with Birthright and the Republican Jewish Coalition. In addition, I was more recently an officer of the board of the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, and am currently Vice-Chair of the board at the Sonoma Valley Film Festival. My wife Cynthia and I have been married for 35 years and have three grown children. We enjoy all things outdoors, ranching, and motorcycling.
I'm honored to serve on the Shir Shalom Board, and I hope my experience and energy will be a good addition to the talented folks currently serving.
I'm a 30-year career grape grower and winemaker. I've sat on numerous religious and cultural boards, including as Chair of the Board of the Jewish Day School in Foster City, in officer positions at the “J” (the SF Jewish Newspaper), AIPAC, SF Federation, and in active roles with Birthright and the Republican Jewish Coalition. In addition, I was more recently an officer of the board of the Sonoma Valley Museum of Art, and am currently Vice-Chair of the board at the Sonoma Valley Film Festival. My wife Cynthia and I have been married for 35 years and have three grown children. We enjoy all things outdoors, ranching, and motorcycling.
I'm honored to serve on the Shir Shalom Board, and I hope my experience and energy will be a good addition to the talented folks currently serving.
