When Beth Blackman walked into TSTI for her job interview as executive director, she immediately felt the warmth of our community. Once she met the search committee, she knew she’d found the right fit.

 

“Just walking into the building for the first time made my heart sing,” said Beth, who joined TSTI as the new executive director effective June 1. “Everyone has been so welcoming.”

 

Aside from the great feeling she got from TSTI’s historic mansion and the people she met on the search committee, Beth was impressed with the breadth and quality of programming at TSTI. “It’s evident that the staff and volunteers work hard to create a calendar of great programs for members of all ages.”

 

“TSTI is a special place, and it’s important that our executive director be able to recognize and contribute meaningfully to that spirit,” noted Max Weisenfeld, president of TSTI. “What really struck me about Beth, beyond her calm competence and experience, was her dedication to Judaism, community, and synagogue life. I could tell immediately that she got us, and to me, that’s everything."

 

Before joining us, Beth was the administrator at Temple Beth Or in the Township of Washington in Bergen County, where, as a long-time member, she’d also served as temple president from 2004-2006.

 

Though she always found her synagogue work rewarding, Beth said she really “found her niche” as an administrator, noting “I love making things happen in the background so that what you see and experience as a congregant is special.”

 

Beth will be around at services and other TSTI activities so be sure to stop and welcome her personally when you see her.