Welcome to JEIC's Next Chapter: Meet Ruchel Green

As I officially step into the role of JEIC’s managing director, I want to start by saying thank you. The warmth and welcome I've received from this team have meant so much to me, and I'm deeply grateful to be joining such a thoughtful, dedicated group.

I also want to recognize two people who shaped JEIC into what it is today. To Sharon Freundel, thank you for your incredible leadership and the strong foundation you've built. Also to Rabbi Shmuel Feld, JEIC's founding director, thank you for your vision — I look forward to working together.

For those I haven't yet met: I've spent more than 20 years in Jewish education, with a master's in educational technology and years serving Jewish day schools across Greater Washington. In 2016, I joined HaKaveret: The JEIC Team Challenge, collaborating with national educational leaders on forward-thinking approaches to Jewish learning — an experience that deepened my belief in using research and bold ideas to transform Jewish day school education.

Jewish education isn't just my profession; it's my daily life. I was raised by two Jewish educators. My husband and I have five children who've attended Jewish day schools, and I'm deeply invested in building a vibrant Jewish future. Outside of work, I'm usually reading about Israel or teaching a spin class — I'm AFAA-certified!

As you likely already know, JEIC is entering an inspiring new chapter. While our founding goals remain as strong as ever, we're sharpening our focus on one of the most important elements of outstanding Jewish education: the educator. We're currently in a discovery phase, identifying the strategies, partnerships, and technology that will best support educators at every stage of their careers — including a new platform to strengthen professional growth and connection.

Our initial priorities include strengthening the teacher pipeline, providing career-long professional learning, and fostering deeper connections and shared purpose across schools and communities. I'm excited about what's ahead, and look forward to building this next chapter with all of you.