Welcome new Engagement Director, Katie Spector

Meet Katie!

1. What are you most excited about with taking on this position?

I’m very excited to meet with students and to help Hillel at Miami University students grow as student leaders.

2. What was your favorite part of your Birthright Israel trip?

My favorite part of my Birthright Israel trip was the moment I touched the Kotel (Western Wall). In that moment I felt such a connection to my ancestors and those who fought to keep Judaism alive.

3. What leads you to want to work with college students?

I had spent my college wishing I had a community to explore my Judaism. After I graduated I wanted to help provide that for other college students.

4. Coffee vs. Tea?

Both! I can always go for an iced coffee, but nothing can beat a good iced tea!

5. What is your favorite food?

I love pasta!

6. What are you currently reading?

Currently reading American Royals.

7. Favorite vacation of all time?

Scotland. The most beautiful country.
I can’t wait to return!

8. Favorite TV shows?

Grey’s Anatomy or Gilmore Girls

9. Sweet vs. Savory?

Sweet!

10. What's a Chiweenie?

Chihuahua and Dachshund

Katie comes from a multi-faith family and was not active in her Jewish journey until her senior year in college at Bowling Green, Ohio. After graduating with a degree in social work she went on a Birthright Israel trip and connected deeply with the country and people. Once back, she felt a calling to return as soon as possible, which she did. Upon her return to Israel, Katie taught English as a second language with the MASA Israel Teaching Fellowship in the city of Beit She’an. While in Israel, Katie fell in love with the vast Jewish community and wished to continue the passion she found.

Katie returned to the US and began working at the University of Arizona Hillel as the IACT coordinator for Jewish engagement. After working with Hillel, she moved on to the Tucson JCC as Assistant Director of Jewish Life and Learning and Tucson BBYO City Director. Katie’s professional career has been focused on helping Jewish youth feel connected and confident in Jewish spaces and is looking forward on continuing this focus as the Engagement Director at Hillel at Miami. During her free time Katie likes to explore new places, create arts and crafts, bake, and hang out with her Chiweenies, Frankie and Oscar.

We are honored to have Katie join us as we grow our Hillel at Miami University.