Scott Topal

Summer is when Scott sees his yearlong efforts pay off in the smiles of his campers. This year, the camps he staffs will provide over 1,200 Jews-campers and staff-with immersive Jewish experiences.

His tenure as Director of Operations at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp in Wheeling coincided with the pandemic and-now-the Israel-Hamas War. "At a time when being Jewish feels harder than ever, this feels like a very small part in ensuring our Jewish future will be a little brighter," Scott said.

His ties to Camp Ramah date back to his origin story in New York, where he attended Ramah Day Camp.  His love for the camp led him to his true love: In 2019, he met his future wife-a fellow Ramah alum-through their national camp network.

In addition to his role as a communal professional, he serves as a lay leader-both a Wexner Field Fellow and in various capacities on the board of Hillel at Northwestern, his alma mater. Scott is the incoming chair of the Hillel board, and strives to make Jewish college students feel safe and empowered-especially now.

AGE:
35

PRONOUNS:
he/him/his

PRIMARY GIG:
Director of Operations, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp in Wheeling

ON THE SIDE:
Incoming Board Chair Northwestern Hillel, Wexner Field Fellow, Dad of 2

SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME:
I love listening to ‘90s pop radio in the car!

CELEBRITY DOPPELGANGER:
Ben Savage

A JEW WHO INSPIRES YOU:
Theodor Herzl—his actions impact and greatly influence our lives today.

IF TIME AND MONEY WERE LIMITLESS, I WOULD:
Give out money to fun impactful, innovative, and exciting projects in the Jewish community.