Sara Rotjan, originally from Queens, N.Y., moved to Merrick in 2011 with her husband, Andrew. As longtime members of their respective conservative synagogues, they looked for a synagogue that felt like home, one that they could grow with. After joining Merrick Jewish Centre in 2014, Sara decided that she would get the most out of her membership if she became involved, so she became active in various committees within the synagogue. Joining Sisterhood has allowed her to get to know and find friends across five generations of women and their families. She views the stories she has learned and the inspiration and comradery that she has gained as “priceless”. 

 

As a member of Sisterhood, Sara serves as a co-chair of the Hospitality Committee, where she welcomes new members to the synagogue by creating and delivering welcome packages before the High Holy Days. This past year, she initiated a collaboration among Sisterhood, Men’s Club, and the temple Membership Committee, strengthening MJC’s welcoming community.

 

As an active member of the synagogue, Sara also serves as chair of the Communications Committee, working alongside a dedicated team of volunteers who believe in the power of messaging. Together, they ensure events, updates, and announcements reach members and the broader community through the temple website, email, and social media. Additionally, she re-established the Youth Committee in 2023 to better engage post-b’nei mitzvah teens. She is also a member of the School Board and the Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). 

 

With a passion for helping others and the greater community, Sara serves on the Board of Directors of the local Little League and coaches softball – giving back to a sport that has been an integral part of her life since childhood.

 

Professionally, Sara is a marketing and product executive with experience in publishing, non-profit, and mental healthcare industries. She values fostering a collaborative workplace through effective communication and mentorship.

 

MJC has provided Sara and her family with a meaningful connection to Shabbat services, Jewish community life, education, and children’s programming – exactly what she had hoped for when they joined. Today, she, Andrew, and their children, Rena, 11, and Shane, 7, remain actively involved, continuing to grow with and contribute to the future of their synagogue.