Synagogue Presidents Circles
Cultivating confident, connected leadership for small town Jewish communities
“It is not for you to complete the task, but neither are you free to desist from it.” (Pirke Avot 2:16)
What is the Synagogue Presidents Circle?
The Synagogue Presidents Circle is a monthly, virtual leadership experience designed specifically for current presidents of rural and under-resourced Jewish communities.
Serving as synagogue president in a smaller community is both deeply meaningful and uniquely demanding. Presidents are often called upon to lead strategically, operationally and even ritually — frequently without the infrastructure or peer network available in larger towns and cities.
This program creates a dedicated space for synagogue presidents to:
- Build meaningful relationships with peers who understand their context
- Share challenges openly and confidentially
- Learn and grow as Jewish leaders
- Strengthen the vitality and sustainability of their communities
At its core, the Circle is about relationship-building, wisdom-sharing, and leadership resilience.
What’s Involved?
Participants join a trusted group of fellow synagogue presidents for a facilitated, structured yet flexible experience that includes:
- Monthly gatherings (virtual):
Facilitated conversations focused on real-time challenges, emerging opportunities, and proven small town congregational practices. - Peer consultation and problem-solving:
Case-based discussions where participants bring live issues and receive thoughtful, practical feedback. - Confidential leadership space:
A setting grounded in trust, discretion, and mutual respect, where presidents can speak candidly. - Selective expert sessions:
Occasional learning opportunities with experienced clergy and other nonprofit leaders. - Annual in-person retreat (optional):
A chance to deepen relationships, reflect, and engage in immersive leadership development.
What Will I Gain?
Participants in the Synagogue Presidents Circle will:
- Lead with greater clarity and confidence
- Strengthen governance and board effectiveness
- Address challenges proactively
- Build a trusted peer network
- Feel less isolated in leadership
Why This Matters
Small-town synagogues are essential centers of Jewish life—places where community is personal, leadership is visible, and every individual matters. Yet these communities often depend heavily on lay leadership to thrive.
The Synagogue Presidents Circle strengthens not only individual leaders, but the future vitality of Jewish life in small and remote communities—helping ensure they remain vibrant, resilient, and deeply connected.
Tuition
We’re offering two price options:
$180 for those who can comfortably pay the majority of the cost of the program.
$54 for those who can comfortably pay a basic access amount.
The Center for Small Town Jewish Life is committed to programming that is affordable and sustainable. If none of these options are viable for you, please contact Liz Soloway Snider at [email protected] to discuss financial assistance. Payment will be requested prior to the start of the program.
Interested in Learning More?
We welcome conversations with synagogue presidents who are curious about joining a future Circle. Reach out to learn more about upcoming opportunities by contacting Bill Robinson, Director of National Leadership Initiatives: [email protected].