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Arial Dagan, Director of Congregational Life

Ariel Dagan joined the Temple Israel community as Director of Congregational life in July 2007.

As a "Sabra" - a native born Israeli, Ariel spent many years in Jerusalem involved in cultural programming with all age groups. Employed by the Department of Education in Israel, Ariel educated high school students statewide with a program combining appreciation and preservation of Jewish culture through music. Since being in the United States, Ariel has served in the capacity of Youth Director and Family Educator at Congregation Beth Israel, Worcester, taught at Prozdor, Solomon Schechter Day School of Worcester, Hebrew High and JCDS. He has also been involved in the retirement community, hosting Seders and running informal discussion groups, as well as hosting text study groups.

A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Ariel spent many years along with his wife, as an acclaimed performer, teaching multiculturalism in both formal and informal settings throughout New England. In addition, Ariel has been a guest speaker in the Jewish community on various topics from Middle Eastern politics to modern and traditional Hebrew music. A nominee for the Covenant Award, Ariel has enhanced Jewish education through creative programs, many of which have been adopted by schools as part of a continuing curriculum.

In addition to working full-time at Temple Israel, Ariel is also a designer and owner of the Jewish neckwear company Ancient Ties, Inc.