We're talking with Carrie Vogel this week. As Director of Undergraduate Initiatives at American Jewish University, Carrie oversees the school's Jewish Learning Experience. A member of ARJE for over a decade, Carrie is a dedicated advocate for the "long game" of Jewish education. Below, she shares the impact of her work with teens, why she values the professional support of the ARJE community, and how she finds beauty in the order and tradition of our shared rituals.
What excites you most about the work you do?
The most exciting part of my work is seeing and hearing the anecdotal evidence that we are making a real impact on teens. I run a concurrent enrollment program where high school students take undergraduate, college-level classes, which operates on the understanding that learning is how we build confidence in our Jewish identity. It is incredibly affirming to read student assignments and hear them describe how they feel more connected to their community and more confident discussing Jewish content as a result of taking one of our classes.
How did you first get involved with the ARJE?
I joined at least 10 years ago after a call from a local colleague and mentor, Marisa Kaiser. She asked why I wasn't a member yet and emphasized that this is where my colleagues are and where I would find the professional support I needed. Because I trusted her, I said yes! ARJE has proven to be a reliable space for connection, advice and support ever since.
Why is it important for those not directly affiliated with a congregation to be part of ARJE?
We must see the work of all Jewish professionals as being interconnected. Whether someone works with early childhood learners, religious school, camp, college, or with adults, we are all part of the same "long game". Every one of us has a hand in moving these learners along and helping them strengthen their identity as they grow.
Do you have a favorite Jewish holiday?
Passover is my favorite, hands down, because it is all about order, structure, routine, tradition and storytelling. Anyone who knows me will affirm that these things are my love language, but I also find the language and liturgy of Passover to provide a more reflective experience than the language and liturgy of the High Holy Days. Asking myself, what has restricted me in this last year, what has held me back, what has enslaved me, what spaces have felt narrow and what can I do to move to a broader space, a space of more flexibility and freedom - these are really meaningful questions to ask of myself.
What do you enjoy doing outside of your professional life?
I love being outdoors, hiking on the trails near our house, reading on the patio, and exploring our (relatively new) city with my family. .
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Who should we profile next? We want to continue highlighting the diverse voices and innovative educators within our community. If you want to nominate an ARJE member to be featured, please let us know here!