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Daniel Schwartz
Executive Director
[email protected]

​Daniel Schwartz serves as Executive Director of Santa Cruz Hillel. Born and raised in Santa Cruz, Daniel grew up in the local Jewish community and became bar mitzvah through Chadeish Yameinu. After graduating from UC San Diego with a degree in Environmental Systems and competing as a Division I water polo player, he earned his master’s in Geology from Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
Daniel spent the last several years in the start-up sector, where he helped grow a mental health company from $100K to $15M in annual revenue. That work solidified his commitment to mission-driven leadership and supporting people through moments of growth and challenge.
Returning home to Santa Cruz to lead Hillel feels especially meaningful. Daniel is passionate about empowering students at UCSC, Cabrillo, and CSUMB to build Jewish community, explore identity, and feel proud of who they are. He and his wife, Corinne, recently welcomed their first daughter, Eliana.

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Zion Nadav
Director of Jewish Student Life
[email protected]

Hi, I’m Zion. I’m the Director of Jewish Student Life at Santa Cruz Hillel, and I’m also a UC Santa Cruz alum and former Hillel student. I’m a Jewish educator, community builder, and writer who cares about creating spaces where students feel connected to Judaism, to each other, and to the world around them.
When I’m not at Hillel, you can usually find me in a bookstore with a matcha in hand.

​​Max Sunberg
Engagement Associate
[email protected]

Hi, I’m Max, your Engagement Associate!
I grew up right here in Santa Cruz and have been part of this amazing Jewish community for as long as I can remember. It feels incredible to be back home working with all of you.
Before joining Santa Cruz Hillel, I gained a lot of experience planning events and creating spaces where people feel welcome, supported, and inspired to explore their Jewish identity. I’m here to help you build community, connect with each other, and bring your ideas for Jewish life on campus to reality.
I can’t wait to meet you and help make Santa Cruz Hillel a place that feels like home!