The Jewish Theological Seminary Welcomes Rabbi Mike Uram as Chancellor

The New Era at The Jewish Theological Seminary

The Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS) in New York, an eminent institution in Jewish education, has recently announced the appointment of Rabbi Mike Uram as its new Chancellor, effective July 1, 2026. This leadership transition marks an important milestone in the institution’s history as Rabbi Uram steps into the role previously held by Chancellor Shuly Rubin Schwartz, who is set to retire at the end of the academic year.

With an impressive track record in Jewish education and community leadership, Rabbi Uram is currently the Chief Jewish Learning Officer at Jewish Federations of North America. Over his extensive career, he has held several significant positions, including the Executive Director and Campus Rabbi at the University of Pennsylvania Hillel, where he contributed to flourishing Jewish engagement on campus for more than 16 years. Notably, he is also the author of the award-winning book "Next Generation Judaism," which critiques and recommends new paths for Jewish organizations in reaching younger demographics.

Rabbi Uram's appointment is emblematic of JTS's guiding vision: to serve as a leading center for engaged Jewish scholarship and community outreach. He brings not only a wealth of experience but also a deep-rooted understanding of the institution's mission, having graduated from JTS himself in 2005. His familiarity with the institution’s intellectual and spiritual assets is expected to bolster JTS's outreach and commitment to a diverse Jewish community.

On his new role, Rabbi Uram expressed, "JTS embodies a unique intersection of rigorous scholarship, religious practice, and community engagement. I feel honored to return and collaborate with the faculty, students, and alumni to further develop JTS's strengths while welcoming more diverse voices from the Jewish community, both in America and globally."

Rabbi Uram succeeds Chancellor Schwartz, who has been the first female Chancellor in JTS's 140-year history. Her tenure has been noted for its resilience during difficult times, including the COVID-19 pandemic and a rise in antisemitism. Under her leadership, JTS advanced significant academic initiatives, expanded its faculty, and adapted programs to better serve its audience.

Chancellor Schwartz shared her enthusiasm for Rabbi Uram’s ascension, noting, "Rabbi Uram possesses a profound intellectual foundation and a visionary approach to Jewish education. I look forward to supporting his transition and am excited about JTS's future under his stewardship."

Alan Levine, the Chair of the JTS Board of Trustees, praised both leaders during this transition. He stated, "Chancellor Schwartz has been instrumental in fortifying JTS, and we are confident that Rabbi Uram is well-equipped to lead us into a promising future grounded in Jewish learning and communal growth."

Rabbi Uram's academic background is equally impressive, having earned a BA in History and Religious Studies from Washington University alongside his Rabbinic Ordination from JTS. He resides near Philadelphia with his wife, Leora, and their three children, though they will be relocating to New York to embrace this new chapter in Rabbi Uram’s career.

In summary, as JTS prepares for this leadership transition, the incoming Chancellor's vision aligns with the institution's commitment to promoting dynamic Jewish learning and fostering a robust community connection. With Rabbi Uram at the helm, the future of JTS looks bright, promising further outreach and a revitalization of Jewish engagement amongst a diverse audiences—both near and afar.