Congregation Anshei Israel has appointed Sarah Artzi as interim religious school administrator. In this new role, Artzi will oversee day-to-day operations of the school and its teachers.
Born and raised in Tucson, Artzi is a lifelong member of CAI. She is the daughter of Sue and the late Saul Tobin (Saul was instrumental in getting the property at 5th Street and Craycroft Road for CAI’s current synagogue). A graduate of Brandeis University with a B.A. in Judaic Studies, she began her involvement in Jewish life early. She attended CAI’s then-nursery/kindergarten, religious school and United Synagogue Youth; attended and worked at Camp Ramah; and worked at several Jewish agencies in New York and San Diego following college, returning to Tucson after marrying. Artzi and her husband, Jeff, have three children who all attended CAI’s preschool/kindergarten, where she was active in the parent action committee. She and her children all became B’nai Mitzvot at CAI.
“I knew C.A.I before I knew A.B.C.,” says Artzi. “Living Jewishly is ingrained in me, and it all started at Anshei Israel. I’m taking on this position wearing many hats: as a mother, as a congregant, as a religious school teacher, and as a member of this community. It definitely feels like a natural, comfortable progression and a wonderful fit. I love the synagogue and am thrilled to be adding this new role.”
Rabbi Robert Eisen comments, “I am looking forward to working with Sarah, and am excited for what she will bring to our school as we build on the strong tradition of excellence for which our school is known. Her commitment and credentials, and most importantly, her infectious smile, will enable us to continue to build the warm and caring community which is synonymous with CAI.”
Artzi will work alongside Eisen and CAI’s new cantorial soloist, Nichole Chorny. According to Artzi, she and Chorny are religious school “insiders,” which should allow for a seamless transition for students and their parents. “Nichole and I will hopefully provide a sense of familiarity and comfort for our families. We also look forward to building a strong sense of community and connection within our school.”
For more information, call 745-5550.
