AJU Celebrates Ordination and Graduation of Future Jewish Leaders

American Jewish University (AJU) proudly marked a milestone this May with the graduation and ordination of students from the Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership and the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies. 

On May 18, the Masor School celebrated graduates of its MAEd in Early Childhood Education at AJU’s Brandeis-Bardin Campus in Simi Valley. These graduates are prepared to create nurturing, inclusive learning environments grounded in Jewish values. 

“Investing in Jewish early childhood education is investing in the future of the Jewish community,” said Dr. Bruce Powell, Dean of the Masor School. “Our graduates are torchbearers for the next generation of Jewish learners.” 

The following day, May 19, the Ziegler School held its ordination ceremony at Sinai Temple, officially ordaining six new rabbis: Jaclyn Honig, Avi Benjamin Kushlan, Nicholas Arthur Losorelli, Malka Michél, Kaylie Rachel Romano, and Julie Chana Ariel Rosenson. 

“These six dedicated individuals are aptly prepared to meet the needs of the Jewish people,” said Rabbi Dr. Bradley Shavit Artson, Dean of the Ziegler School. 

AJU also honored five Ziegler alumni from the Class of 2005 with honorary doctorates for two decades of service to the Jewish community. 

Looking ahead, AJU will celebrate the upcoming graduation of students in its BA Completion Degree in Early Childhood Education this August—continuing its mission to expand access to Jewish education and leadership development for learners at every stage.