Welcome to the FSA application

The Fellow in Synagogue Administration (FSA) Program is the certification program of NAASE which affords synagogue executives the opportunity to demonstrate their leadership, professionalism, experience, competence and knowledge of the field. The attainment of the FSA Certification recognizes one’s longevity in the field, participation and leadership in the association, and an advanced understanding of the required knowledge to be a successful synagogue executive.

In recognition of the critical role that Executive Directors play in the life of a congregation, this credential has been developed and is recognized by one’s peers at NAASE and by the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism. This FSA credential also demonstrates to synagogue professionals, lay leaders, congregants and the community at large the Executive Director’s commitment to knowledge, personal growth and improved professional performance.

Only an Executive Director currently working in a Conservative synagogue can apply for their FSA, and must remain in a Conservative synagogue until completion in order to be conferred.
The Candidate must complete this application and submit it, along with the $100 application fee. Payment should be submitted on-line.
The Board of Governors reserves the right to reject a Candidate for any reason deemed advisable and the decision of the Board of Governors action is final. Should this occur, your deposit will be refunded.
The Board of Governors may also revoke the FSA Certification for unethical behavior and behavior unbecoming a synagogue executive.

As a final step in the application process, the candidate will participate in a one-hour professional conversation, arranged by the FSA Certification Chairperson, to take place at a NAASE Conference or other agreed upon time, with three, FSA-Certified colleagues. This conversation may cover some or all of the following subjects: Communications, Human Resources, Membership, Finance/Budget, General Synagogue Management, Governance, Jewish Ritual.

FSA Application

In agreeing below, I confirm I recognize and understand the importance and significance of the FSA certification program and I agree to complete the general and specific requirements for certification within two (2) years from the date of this signed application.(Required)

Yes, I agree

Candidate Information

Name

First Last

Date

Phone

Congregation

Congregation Address

Street Address Address Line 2 City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code Country

Website

Specific Requirements for Certification

Do you meet all of the FSA certification qualifications? Please check each item below to confirm you have...

been a regular member of NAASE in good standing for 3+ years

served as a full-time executive director in a congregation(s) for 3+ years

achieved a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree

participated in a combination of 3 annual conferences (minimum of 2) and/or Weeks of Study

chaired/co-chaired a NAASE Conference or Committee OR served on the NAASE Board for 2+ years

Total years at current congregation

Total years as an executive director

Previous congregation (if at current position for less than three years)

Year joined NAASE

School, highest degree, and year achieved

List years attended conference

List years attended Week of Study

List Conference or Committee position, and/or years served on the NAASE Board

List NAASE Administrative Resource Center (ARC) submissions and dates (minimum 3 required, if not yet submitted, list intended publications and dates)

List class(es) taught at NAASE University (minimum 3 required, if not yet taught, list intended publications and dates)

List other movement or industry presentations or achievements that might strengthen your FSA candidacy

Congregational References

Required Reference 1 of 2(Required)

Max. file size: 128 MB.

Required Reference 2 of 2(Required)

Max. file size: 128 MB.

Above, please submit two (2) reference letters, written by either clergy or lay leaders. Reference letters should speak towards their support of your FSA application; your ethical and professional standards; the unique contributions you have made to the congregation; your ability to mentor other executive directors in the field, and your leadership qualities.