Learn more about the recipients of the 2025 Robert M. Sherman Young Pioneers Award who demonstrate a commitment to new ideas and the use of innovative approaches to inspire children and families in their community

Amy Schilit Benarroch, Fig Tree 

Amy is the Education Director at Fig Tree, an independent Jewish after-school program. With over a decade of experience in Jewish education, including roles in day schools and synagogues, Amy brings an innovative and entrepreneurial spirit to her work. At Fig Tree, she has helped build a flexible, family-centered model of Jewish education that lowers barriers to access across six neighborhoods throughout NYC. She has designed curricula that allows students from different ages to explore shared themes in developmentally appropriate ways, encouraging family learning at home. At the beginning of Amy's Jewish educator journey, she participated in The Jewish Education Project's Titchadesh Network and continues to be inspired by peer learning and collaborative growth through The Jewish Education Project. 

Alyssa Berman, Beth El Synagogue Center

Alyssa Berman (Schwager), originally from Atlanta, GA, is the Director of Youth and Family Engagement at Beth El Synagogue Center in New Rochelle, NY. She holds an MA in Jewish Education from the Jewish Theological Seminary and an MA in Educational Psychology from University of Connecticut. Alyssa previously worked at Sutton Place Synagogue and Fort Tryon Jewish Center, taught religious school around the tri-state area, and was a staff member at Camp Ramah Nyack and Camp Modin. Alyssa has regularly participated in professional development sessions and networks through The Jewish Education Project, including Innovators, Youth Roundtable and Leadership networks. Additionally, Alyssa has received three microgrants, focusing on mindfulness, racial justice, and Jewish diversity through food.

Erica Cohen, Young Judaea

 As the Director of Teen Engagement at Young Judaea for the past three years, Erica has organized and inspired teens from across the US and Israel. Previously, Erica was the Director of the Center for Youth Philanthropy and Leadership at UJA-Federation of NY, engaging over 500 teens to learn the power and impact of community service from the youngest ages. Erica was a member of The Jewish Education Project's Gen Now Fellowship Cohort 2 and is a regular fixture at annual conferences. In the months after October 7th, Erica organized the inaugural iTeen Summit, creating a space for teens to discuss Israel and Jewish identity during a time of uncertainty and heightened emotion. Erica lives in Manhattan with her family.

Elisheva Hirsch, Preschool of the Arts

 Elisheva Hirsch is the Theatre Specialist at Preschool of the Arts and a theatre teaching artist and actress based in New York City. A graduate of Yeshiva University, she is currently pursuing a Master’s in Educational Theatre at The City College of New York. At POTA, Elisheva integrates theatre and Jewish education in classroom lessons, caregiver-child classes, and Pre-Shabbat and Jewish holiday celebrations. She credits Jonathan Shmidt Chapman's professional development workshops with The Jewish Education Project as an important influence on her work. Elisheva looks forward to furthering her involvement with The Jewish Education Project as she continues to develop her teaching practice, using theatre to spark Jewish joy, pride, and connection.

Caryn Keller, SAR High School

Dr. Caryn Keller teaches World History and AP US Government & Politics at SAR High School. Beyond the classroom, Caryn is the director of the school's Confidence Project, a program providing students with the tools and knowledge to speak about Judaism from a position of confidence and pride. Additionally, Caryn co-leads the school's ongoing partnerships with local charter and public schools, fostering relationships and connections between diverse groups of students. As a recipient of SAR's Innovation Lab grant, Caryn was also instrumental in developing the 10th grade's history of antisemitism curriculum. Caryn's classes are known for dynamic discussions, challenging students to consider diverse perspectives and engage in respectful, constructive dialogue. Caryn lives in Riverdale with her family.