The Sid Jacobson JCC announced Lauren Chizner has joined the J’s team as director of Jewish Life + Learning.
With nearly 30 years of experience in Jewish education, Chizner has spent her career fostering Jewish growth and connection from leading religious schools to enriching summer camp experiences. She’s passionate about inspiring all ages to embrace and celebrate Jewish traditions. In a statement, Sid Jacobson JCC staff said they were thrilled to have her share her expertise and love for Judaism with the community.
Chizner, a Jewish educator for almost 30 years, continues to serve as the Religious School director at Port Jewish Center in Port Washington, New York, and Temple Beth El of Huntington, New York, where she shares her deep passion for Judaism.
She earned a joint master’s degree in Jewish Education and Jewish Communal Service from Hebrew Union College – Jewish Institute of Religion in Los Angeles, California. Prior to her current roles, Chizner spent six years as the director of education at Temple Beth El of Great Neck, New York, and served as an educational consultant for SAJES — now known as The Jewish Education Project — working with congregations across Long Island.
In addition to operating out of synagogues, Chizner worked 18 summers as the director of Jewish Life at URJ Crane Lake Camp, where she brought Judaism to life for all campers and staff. Chizner was also the liaison for all Israeli staff at camp.
She has had the privilege of serving as the administrator for Project Understanding, a nonprofit grassroots organization on Long Island, founded by Roger Tilles and the late Fr. Tom Hartman. Project Understanding has provided a vehicle for Catholic and Jewish high school students to gain a greater knowledge of their own and each other’s religion through experiences on Long Island. The program culminates in a journey to Israel.
Chizner is originally from Houston, Texas. She and Rabbi Todd Chizner met during their first year of study at HUC in Jerusalem. Together, they are the proud parents of Jacob, Jed and Rachel.
