Hillel 818 is proud to introduce Matt Baram as its next executive director.
Baram joins the Hillel 818 team after spending the previous eight years as the millennial director at Sinai Temple in Los Angeles. During his years at Sinai Temple, Baram built one of the top teen programs and led one of the most robust young professional communities in the country. His portfolio included the Teen Center, Chai School, David and Angella Nazarian Youth Leadership Program, Atid: Sinai Temple 20s & 30s, and the Ted and Hedy Orden & Family Friday Night Live.
A beloved educator and mentor Matt received Far West USY’s “Kesher” Award in 2017 for his outstanding work with and dedication to Los Angeles’ Jewish teen community.
“The Hillel 818 board and community stakeholders are thrilled to welcome Matt Baram as our new executive director. Matt brings enthusiasm, creativity and a drive to connect with Jewish students throughout our community. He is dedicated to ensuring continued growth and development of this Hillel for the benefit of all the students served today and for many years to come,” said Kathi Mangel, chair of Hillel 818’s board.
“Hillel 818 is primed for continued growth in the years to come,” Baram said. “My predecessor, David Katz, laid an incredible foundation, and I’m honored to work with the Hillel 818 board, staff, students, alumni and community friends as we continue his great work, ensuring an exciting and vibrant Jewish future at Hillel 818 and in the community at large.”
Baram holds a Master of Arts in Education with a concentration in Judaic Studies from the American Jewish University, and a BS in Communications with a concentration in Advertising from Boston University. While at Boston University, Baram served as the president of Hillel’s Conservative Minyan and as a member of Hillel’s Religious Life Council. He was also the lead songwriter and rhythm guitar player for the Jewish rock band, “The Rif.” Matt is a Jewish school, summer camp, and youth group veteran, who along with his wife Alayna, is excited to be joining the Hillel 818 family.
Baram succeeds longtime Executive David Katz, who will be moving to San Francisco this summer with his wife, Rabbi Amanda Russell, and their daughter Reva.
Baram will begin serving at Hillel 818 on July 1.