Our Team

Religious School Director: Lauren Chizner 

Lauren Chizner has been our Director of Education since 2013. Lauren is passionate about making Judaism come alive for students and their families and fostering a connection with Israel.  She has a strong connection to the Reform movement. In her youth, Lauren spent summers at Jewish camp in Texas, was involved in NFTY, traveling to Israel with NFTY both as a participant and then later as a leader, and spent a semester at Tel Aviv University during college. She earned a Master’s Degree from the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion.  Lauren’s formal career as a Jewish educator began as the Director of Education at Temple Beth El of Great Neck, although she has been teaching since the time of her Bat Mitzvah. She is the proud mother of 3 children, Jacob, Jed, and Rachel. Her husband, Todd, is the rabbi at Temple Judea of Manhasset.

Lauren can be reached at school@portjewishcenter.org.

Office Manager: Frayda Jay

Frayda Jay is Port Jewish Center's office manager.  She joined our staff in October, 2023, and has been a Port resident for many years.  Her previous experience in the airline industry, office management and summer camp leadership allows her to bring a wide range of skills to her new position.  In her administrative  role,  Frayda works closely with Rabbi Mendelson, temple board members and building staff to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of our temple office.  Frayda’s own personal values align with PJC's welcoming and inclusive environment.

Frayda can be reached at info@portjewishcenter.org.

Bookkeeper: Christine Frankel 

Christine Frankel joined the Port Jewish Center as a part-time bookkeeper in November 2023. She comes with a legal and accounting background and is responsible for maintaining the books and records of the synagogue, including tracking all revenues and expenses, ensuring timely payroll for religious school and temple staff, and following through on all reporting requirements. Christine works closely with the PJC treasurer to ensure accurate tracking of monies and provides valuable information for developing the budget and managing temple finances. Christine has lived in Port Washington for over 25 years with her husband and their five children.

Christine can be reached at bookkeeper@portjewishcenter.org.

For all other inquiries, 

Please email info@portjewishcenter.org and we will route your inquiry appropriately.

Marketing and Communications Lead: Carole Markowitz

Carole Markowitz joined PJC as a marketing professional in December of 2022.  She focuses on Marketing and Communications for PJC.  Carole work closely with the Rabbi and the Board to ensure that communications and marketing messages inform the internal and external community about PJC happenings.  She has spent the lion share of her career building marketing campaigns, developing branding and messaging for large financial services companies.  Most recently, she worked as the Head of Operations for a marketing consulting firm with primary responsibilities of creating new processes, managing client relationships and recruiting new employees.  Carole lives in Port Washington with her husband Brian and is a mother of 3 children, Sophie (12), Noah (9) and Ethan (7).  Carole also enjoys running and traveling.

Please email carole@portjewishcenter.org and we will route your inquiry appropriately.