About Us

Leslie Valas 

BFA California College of Arts and Crafts
MFT, John F. Kennedy School of Professional Psychology

Leslie Valas has been involved in the East Bay Jewish community for over 30 years.  She and her family have been an active part of  Jewish day schools, Jewish camping, Israel programs, and their synagogue community.  After completing her tenure as president of Congregation Beth Israel, she remained passionately involved with her community. Her interest in Kevah was inspired by watching her adult daughter and son-in-law's enthusiasm for their Kevah group.  Leslie decided she wanted to create a Kevah group for women in her demographic, and thus Cool Women, one of Kevah's first groups, was born. 

Leslie's Berkeley life involves family,friends and community, visits to the bay area art museums and walking the beautiful bay area outdoor trails. Professionally, she is a marriage and family therapist in private practice.