Rachel Stern. Credit: Andrew Holmes

On March 12, Shalom Austin announced the appointment of Rachel Stern as the next CEO.

On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are proud to share an exciting announcement! Guided by our tradition of values-driven leadership, we are moving from strength to strength with the appointment of Rachel Stern as Shalom Austin’s next Chief Executive Officer, beginning July 1.

This unanimous decision by the Board is the result of a rigorous nationwide search. Our seven-member search committee, composed of current and former board members and local community leaders, had more than 100 prospects from across the country. After narrowing the field and interviewing the top four finalists, the committee and Board recognized Rachel as the one candidate with a clear vision that perfectly and uniquely aligns with our community’s future.

As many of you know, Rachel has been a senior leader at Shalom Austin since 2018, currently serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Strategy & Impact Officer. She has transformed our outreach and engagement strategy, successfully led the growth and sustainability of our global Jewish partnerships, amplified our commitment to Jewish education and leadership development, and more.

For Rachel, the CEO role is the natural culmination of her 30 years of dedication to the Jewish community, reflecting her deep talent as both a hands-on educator and strategic-minded executive.

Raised in San Antonio, she has an impressive academic and professional background, including master’s degrees in Jewish Education and Jewish Communal Service from Hebrew Union College, as well as an honorary doctorate in Jewish Religious Education for 25 years of service in the Jewish professional world. Before joining Shalom Austin, Rachel’s career spanned Jewish Federations, graduate schools, synagogues, and regional and national organizations. Click here for Rachel’s full bio.

Rachel has an unwavering commitment to the Jewish community, our Jewish future, Israel, and Jewish peoplehood. She leads with integrity, a collaborative spirit, and a steadfast passion for our mission.

To ensure a seamless transition, Rachel will partner closely with our current CEO Rabbi Daniel A. Septimus until June 30, when he completes his work.  They are jointly focused on ensuring a purposeful and steady handoff, during which our community will continue to thrive without missing a beat.

Please join us in congratulating Rachel and stay tuned for formal opportunities to connect with her directly. We look forward to offering her our full support as we embark on this inspiring new chapter together.

With excitement and gratitude,

Phil Loewy
Search Committee Co-Chair
Shalom Austin Board Chair

Marcia Silverberg
Search Committee Co-Chair
Shalom Austin Governance Chair