American Jewish University (AJU) today announced the appointment of Jay Allan Greenlinger, Ed.D., as dean of the Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership, effective Jan. 6. A nationally recognized educator, Greenlinger brings more than 20 years of experience advancing educational excellence across K–12 and higher education.
In his new role, Greenlinger will lead AJU’s Masor School, which empowers educators to build vibrant Jewish communities one classroom at a time, overseeing academic programs, faculty development, curriculum innovation and strategic growth. His appointment reflects AJU’s continued investment in preparing visionary educators and leaders to shape the future.
“Jay Greenlinger is an exceptional educator and leader whose career reflects a deep commitment to learning, equity and values-based education,” AJU president Jay Sanderson said. “His experience building strong faculty cultures, designing innovative programs and leading complex educational organizations makes him the ideal dean to guide the Masor School into its next chapter.”
He previously served as assistant superintendent of personnel and pupil services for the Sulphur Springs Union School District in Santa Clarita, where he oversaw recruitment, professional development, student services, enrollment and compliance for approximately 700 employees across nine schools. He has also served as director of curriculum and instruction in the Oak Park Unified School District and as director of instructional technology in Pleasant Valley. His work spans academic leadership, accreditation, faculty development, instructional innovation and Jewish educational engagement.
Greenlinger has also taught graduate courses at California Lutheran University, and has published and presented widely on educational leadership and sustainable learning environments.
He earned his Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from California State University, Northridge. He also holds master’s degrees from California State University, Northridge and Pepperdine University, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
“I am honored to join American Jewish University and to serve as dean of the Masor School,” Greenlinger said. “AJU plays a vital role in shaping educators and leaders who carry Jewish values into classrooms, institutions and communities. I look forward to working with faculty, students and partners to expand access, deepen impact and strengthen the Jewish future for generations to come.”
The process that led to his hiring followed an extensive national search led by AJU’s provosts and Masor School leadership, with broad participation from senior leadership, faculty and administrators.
He succeeds Bruce Powell, who has served as interim dean since 2023. During Powell’s tenure, the Masor School added three new cutting-edge degree programs and grew significantly in enrollment.
As Greenlinger assumes his role as dean, Powell continues as senior advisor at the Masor School.
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Greenlinger as the next Dean of the Masor School for Jewish Education and Leadership,” said Robbie Totten, provost of American Jewish University. “He brings the vision and leadership to guide the Masor School as it continues to prepare Jewish early childhood educators and other Jewish professionals for success in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.”
