American Jewish University in Bel-Air in recent weeks has made a pair of high-level appointments.
On June 30, the institution named Robbie Totten as its new provost. He previously served as the university’s chief academic officer and vice president of academic affairs. There, Totten brought doctoral-level programming back to AJU and expanded its online offerings for non-local students.
As provost, Totten is now tasked with strategic planning, faculty recruitment and program development, among other responsibilities.
“American Jewish University is redefining Jewish education for the 21st century – accessible, innovative, and mission-driven, with a clear focus on the future of Jewish life in North America,” Totten said in a statement.
Lawrence Platt was also announced last week as chair of AJU’s board of directors. Having joined the board in 2016, Platt previously chaired the board’s development committee and still heads its executive compensation committee. As board chair, Platt will coordinate with AJU President Jay Sanderson to shape the future of the university.
“AJU is uniquely positioned to meet people where they are – through camp, online learning and formal education – and to build a vibrant, inclusive Jewish future grounded in both tradition and innovation,” Platt said.
Outside of AJU, Platt remains on the board of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, where was previously served as chair and currently is its secretary.
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Bank of America has kicked in an additional $1 million to Los Angeles-area nonprofits that are working toward wildfire recovery.
This new infusion of cash, announced last week, will be distributed among a variety of activities in Altadena and Pacific Palisades, including resources for small businesses, debris removal, legal and insurance needs, and housing. The financial institution has now given more than $3.5 million to these recovery efforts.
“From our immediate initial response to the fires in January to pivoting as needs change over time, our aim is to help all Angelenos recover,” said Raul Anaya, the L.A.-based business banking president for Bank of America.
