Our Staff
Nicole "Nicky" Pitman
Director of Shemesh Farms
Nicky’s story is one of coming home. A proud L.A. native and former JCA camper, counselor, and JCC staff member, she returned to the Shalom Institute in 2022 after more than three decades away. Before that, Nicky worked as an actress, writer and director and spent 23 years as an educator, shaping young minds and communities with creativity and care. She earned her Master’s degree in Contemplative Education, which deepened her commitment to mindfulness, connection, and intentional teaching—values she now brings to her role as Director of Shemesh Farms.
At Shemesh Farms, Nicky weaves together her eclectic background in theatre, education, social justice, creativity, and community outreach to help the farm grow and thrive. She oversees educational programming for Farm Fellows, strengthens partnerships that connect diverse communities, and ensures the farm is a place of purpose and inclusion. A certified yoga instructor, she’s always ready to roll out a mat for a quick session, believing deeply in the power of presence, balance, and joy.
Every day, Nicky feels grateful to lead a dedicated staff, work alongside incredible Farm Fellows, and collaborate with volunteers and community partners to cultivate something larger than themselves—a farm that grows both herbs and humanity.
Karen Friedman
Associate Director of Sales & Development at Shemesh Farms
With more than a decade of experience in Jewish nonprofit development, Karen pairs strategic insight with heartfelt commitment to drive fundraising, sales growth, donor engagement, corporate partnerships, and grant development for Shemesh Farms.
But beyond the business side, Karen’s greatest joy comes from spending time with our Farm Fellows—watching them grow in skills, confidence, and community. For her, that’s where the true magic of Shemesh happens.
Drawing on her background in education and team leadership, Karen excels at turning ambitious visions into actionable plans and fostering a collaborative, purpose-filled environment.
Outside the farm, Karen enjoys gardening, cooking, and spending time with her husband Adam, their sons Julian and Liam, and their dogs Moose and Humphrey. She believes most challenges in life can be solved with a deep breath, a count to ten, and a really good cup of coffee.
Joe Aaron
Farm Manager of Shemesh Farms
Joe Aaron has worked with Fellows at Shemesh Farms as a Direct Service Provider (DSP) at both Creative Steps and Etta’s day-programs since 2015. Through the years he has developed a love for this work and the population. Joe is happy to now work at Shemesh Farms as the Farm Director and enjoys seeing many of his former clients every day. He is the father of Lexington Aaron co-star of the Emmy Award winning documentary “Autism the Musical” on HBO. Additionally, he has a background as a writer for film, television, and as a writing teacher.