Mardi Caminer

Perhaps it was bashert -destiny-for Mardi to become a Jewish professional. The charismatic Grodzin Director of Education and Innovation at Anshe Emet Synagogue was on the cover of JUF News as a child celebrating Israel Independence Day with friends. That adorable Israel-flag waving child went on to become the student leader of Vanderbilt University's Hillel.

She holds a bachelor's in special education and child studies from Vanderbilt and a master's degree in education entrepreneurship from the University of Pennsylvania. After graduating, Mardi worked as a special education teacher in Washington, D.C.

Back in her hometown Chicago-at the synagogue where she was bat mitzvahed, Mardi has taken her passion for special education to create the most inclusive religious school possible at Anshe Emet. In her role, she models positivity, authenticity, trust, and she ensures that everyone is treated fairly.

  Mardi displays a boundless commitment to Jewish education and has served as an invaluable resource to parents, students, and teachers while modernizing the religious school to promote inclusivity for all.

AGE:
28

PRONOUNS:
she/her/hers

PRIMARY GIG:
Grodzin Director of Education and Innovation at Anshe Emet Synagogue

ON THE SIDE:
No side hustles these days! I used to coach youth soccer.

DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 10 WORDS OR LESS:
Empathetic, caring, organized, and fun

HOW YOU JEW IN CHICAGO:
I love to host and attend Shabbat dinners

WHAT IS YOUR PROUDEST ACCOMPLISHMENT IN THE LAST 10 YEARS:
I am proud of myself for putting myself in positions that I am excited about. I found my master's program so exciting even though it was challenging as I was working full-time as a teacher. Now, there are so many things that I love about my job even though it is a very tough role.

A JEW WHO INSPIRES YOU:
Gloria Steinem

YOUR BEST PIECE OF ADVICE:
It's not that serious!