Alumni Spotlight: Jake Geiringer ‘17
From the moment Jake stepped into Schechter, he began a journey that would ultimately transform his passion for Jewish life and Israel advocacy into meaningful action. Today, as the Director of Academic Affairs and Media Relations at the Consulate General of Israel to the Midwest, Jake works to strengthen the relationship between Israel and academic communities across the region. He focuses on student outreach, supporting college campuses in combating antisemitism, and protecting free speech surrounding Israel. He also coordinates television, radio, and print media appearances for the Consul General across the Midwest.
“I have always been interested in working in Jewish and Israeli spaces,” Jake says. “This job is my first one out of university, and I have loved my work so far.”
A graduate of Rochelle Zell Jewish High School and Washington University in St. Louis, Jake earned his B.A. in Jewish, Islamic, and Middle Eastern Studies, with minors in writing and legal studies. During college, he made a mark as a leader and changemaker. He served as President of WIPAC, the WashU AIPAC Club, President of Relay for Life: Bears Against Cancer, and External Vice President of the Alpha Delta Phi fraternity. His academic excellence was recognized through the prestigious Zawada Award in Jewish Studies for his thesis exploring the cultural integration of Ethiopian and Russian communities in Israel.
Today, Jake lives in Deerfield, where he remains deeply connected to the Jewish and academic communities that have shaped him. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and listening to podcasts about contemporary politics, American and Middle Eastern history, and writing poetry. He also values personal fitness and loves to support Chicago sports teams.
Jake finds his work with students in the Midwest to be the most rewarding aspect of his job. “After seeing how difficult these times have been for people in our community, it is an honor to be fighting alongside students against antisemitism and barriers to free speech on campuses,” he says.
Jake’s strong sense of identity and commitment to his values can be traced back to his years at Schechter.
“Schechter prepared me with a strong American Jewish foundation, where values like Tikkun Olam became calls to action rather than distant ideals,” he says.
“The teachers, faculty, and staff all care deeply about seeing their students succeed, and I felt this every day when walking into the building,” he adds. “I am immensely grateful for my K–8 experience at Schechter, where I also made lifelong friends who I now see as family.”
When asked about his favorite memories, Jake immediately points to Schechter’s 8th-grade Israel trip. “It was my first time there, and it was an amazing and meaningful trip with my classmates.” The experience made a lasting impression, helped shape his connection to Israel, and continues to guide his career today.
Jake remains close with many of his Schechter classmates, maintaining bonds that have lasted well beyond graduation. “They remain like family to me after all these years,” he says. “I believe Schechter played a significant role in cultivating an environment where such deep connections could be forged.”
Jake adds that the Schechter community is not just a school; it’s family.
“My parents, my sister, and I have all developed such a close-knit connection with the Schechter community that it makes our small family seem a whole lot larger.”
When asked what advice he would give his younger self, Jake’s answer reflects both wisdom and optimism: “In all parts of life, lead with kindness and respect. Be pragmatic in your approach but delusional in your dreams.”
