Ari Nussbaum's journey is deeply rooted in his strong connections to the Chicago Jewish community, where relationships and a sense of responsibility—achrayus—have played a central role in shaping both his personal and professional life. Coming from Hillel Torah with six close friends, Ari embarked on his high school journey at FYHS, and together they formed lifelong bonds that would influence their paths for years to come. Ari and his family were quickly drawn to the welcoming and inspiring environment at FYHS, which became the foundation for his passion for making a meaningful impact on the lives of children.
After spending a year and a half at Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh in Israel, Ari returned to Chicago to attend Northeastern Illinois University. During his time there, a memorable learning program created by Rabbi Zvi Zimmerman, Mashgiach Ruchani of HTC, had a profound impact on him. This program offered an opportunity for post-yeshiva students to continue their Torah learning while balancing work and college life. Ari embraced this opportunity, and through Rabbi Zimmerman’s program, he developed a deeper passion for Torah study with his friends.
Ari went on to earn his degree in elementary education and began teaching science and social studies to 5th graders in the Chicago Public School system. His commitment to fostering growth in young people extended beyond the classroom, as he also served as the Unit Head of JCC Summer Camp, a role he had held since the age of 19. This love for camp, which had its seeds sown at Camp Moshava Wild Rose, where Ari was a longtime camper, flourished as he began to make his mark on the Jewish community. Reflecting on his experiences at FYHS, Ari credits the Yeshiva's emphasis on community and connection for his continued desire to engage with and support others in his work. "Taking advantage of every moment is something the Yeshiva instills," he explains. He fondly remembers how, as a senior, his class set a goal to have the most memorable senior trip possible. Through their hard work, they not only enjoyed a senior trip to California but also gathered for a reunion weekend in Israel the following year.
One of the most formative relationships in Ari’s life was with his freshman-year Rebbi, Rabbi Aharon Cardash, who continues to teach the freshman shiur at FYHS today. Ari recalls that this was the first time in his life he had a Rebbi, someone who invested in each student’s growth and who remained connected with his talmidim years later. After a successful year in Rabbi Cardash’s shiur, Ari returned to Camp Moshava. That summer, tragedy struck when Ari’s counselor, Yaakov Matanky OBM, passed away unexpectedly. Ari noted that it was one of the most difficult times in his life, and it was his Rebbi, Rabbi Cardash, who was the first to reach out. The impact of this moment and the support of his Rebbi left a lasting impression on Ari.
These formative experiences, relationships, support, and opportunities to “seize the moment” have shaped Ari into a leader and mentor in his community. They ultimately led him to his current role as Camp Director at Moshava Ba’ir in Skokie, where he has been instrumental in fostering an awesome environment for campers. Ari has dedicated 14 years to working in the Chicago Public Schools system and is entering his fifth summer at Moshava Ba’ir, where his leadership continues to have a profound impact. Ari was named to the JUF’s annual 36 under 36 in 2022, honoring people making a difference in the Jewish community.
Ari and his wife Sarah are proud parents to four children—Lily (12), R.J. (9), Zeke (7), and Solly (3)—and continue to live in Chicago, where they remain committed to strengthening their community and creating lasting connections.
Comments