New Mexico's Jewish community fears 'implosion' as lawsuits allege harassment and mismanagement

(JTA) – With his livelihood on the line, Rob Lennick texted the wrong Deborah.

The CEO of the Jewish Federation of New Mexico, Lennick sent a message asking for support of an extension to his contract. He was also asking for a $30,000 forgivable loan from the federation to pay for the repair of a home he was hoping to purchase.

Lennick had meant to reach Deborah Boldt, who was serving on the federation’s board of directors — but he reached Deborah Albrycht, the federation’s human resources officer.

What happened next set off a crisis in Jewish communal life in New Mexico that many say could un...