Introducing Amie Barrish

Spertus welcomes Amie Barrish as Assistant Director for Recruitment

Amie Barrish recently joined the Spertus Institute team and is already creatively matching future students with programs that will change their lives.

Amie Barrish does not let obstacles slow her down. With a degree from Northwestern University’s renowned Medill School of Journalism, Barrish began her career working for Edelman, a global communications firm, with tech start-ups among her clients. She credits this time as formative, contributing to her strengths as a communicator, rapport builder, and hard worker.

After starting a family, Barrish switched directions and earned an MA in Teaching from National Louis University, displaying the quest for learning and commitment to community that we see among many Spertus students. She taught in a number of educational settings, most recently as a Lead Teacher for JCC Chicago.

She has also been an active contributor to the Chicago Jewish community as a volunteer, serving on the board of the Jewish United Fund’s Young Leadership Division, on committees for Moriah Congregation in suburban Deerfield, and as a parent volunteer for Solomon Schechter Day School and Rochelle Zell Jewish High School.

Her new role at Spertus combines her passions for Jewish education with her skills in outreach, communications, and community building. About her appointment, Spertus Associate Dean for Outreach Elana Kahn said, “Amie joined our team with power and commitment. She sees the big picture, questions old patterns, and thoughtfully guides prospective students to the Jewish learning opportunities most relevant to their own goals and growth.”

Barrish undauntingly began her position during the pandemic and she’s found the transition easier than expected. “I’m inspired by Spertus applicants, students, and alumni. Even during this time, Jewish communal professionals are passionately dedicated to their roles and institutions, seeking to serve their communities with new expertise. I love hearing about their career paths and professional goals.”

“I’m also amazed by Spertus Institute’s Jewish Studies students, some pursuing additional graduate work to deepen the knowledge they bring to their careers and others solely for the love of Jewish learning.”

Embracing a key Spertus value—that leaders keep learning—Barrish will herself soon be a Spertus student in the Certificate in Jewish Leadership program that Spertus Institute presents in partnership with Northwestern University (see page 23).

Connect with Amie Barrish to discuss how you can continue learning at admissions@spertus.edu or 312.322.1707.