American Jewish University Graduates Educators Shaping the Future of Jewish Early Childhood Learning

 

American Jewish University (AJU) will confer Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education (BA ECE) on ten graduates during a ceremony on Sunday, August 10. These educators are prepared to build the future of Jewish early childhood education, creating vibrant, inclusive learning environments in centers and day schools nationwide.

 

As one of AJU’s Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership degree programs, the BA ECE program empowers early childhood educators to nurture children’s growth by designing meaningful learning experiences, fostering positive relationships, collaborating with families, and upholding the highest professional and ethical standards.

 

“Jewish early childhood educators create the spaces where children encounter Jewish life — its language, its values, and its joy,” said Dr. Bruce Powell, Dean of AJU’s Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership. “Our graduates step into this sacred work with deep purpose. They are teaching our youngest learners and helping ensure that Jewish life remains strong for generations to come.”

 

This year’s graduating cohort is united by a passion for building vibrant Jewish learning environments for young children. They will go on to serve in Jewish early childhood centers and day schools nationwide. Graduates include Chaya Berktin, Rachel Berman, Lauren A. Branco, Diane Cohen, Tali Elhadad, Liat Tova Feller, Kristina Mamontov, Danit Sharonne Reitman, Aidie Shusterman, and Jill Akemi Vidal.

 

“The call for passionate, visionary Jewish early childhood educators has never been more urgent,” emphasized Dr. Tamar Andrews, Director of Degree Programs at AJU. “Our newest graduates have invested the past two years not just learning, but transforming themselves into leaders, innovators, and thoughtful change agents. Their dedication and improved practice in the field have already impacted the lives of our youngest generation, igniting meaningful change throughout our schools. I am absolutely confident they will continue to elevate classrooms and inspire entire communities nationwide, leaving an enduring legacy for Jewish education.