Laura Shaw Frank
Dr. Laura Shaw Frank serves as the Director of the American Jewish Committee's (AJC) Center for Education Advocacy and the Director of the William Petschek Department of Contemporary Jewish Life. A passionate and award-winning educator with extensive experience in both Jewish and broader educational landscapes, Laura leads AJC’s efforts to shape K-12 and higher education institutions that reject antisemitism in all forms and foster inclusive environments for Jewish students.
With a deep belief in the power of relationships to drive meaningful change, Dr. Shaw Frank is a sought-after speaker, facilitator, and mentor who empowers young Jewish leaders in high school and college settings. She is a trusted adviser to educational leaders, assisting them in building brave and resilient educational spaces that promote fact-based inquiry, dialogue across difference, and a nuanced understanding of Israel, antisemitism, and Jewish identity.
Dr. Shaw Frank teaches and speaks nationwide, educating Jews and non-Jews about Jewish identity and connection to Israel, the history and current manifestations of antisemitism, and the power of education to create change. She holds a PhD in Jewish History from the University of Maryland, College Park, and both undergraduate and law degrees from Columbia University.
Before her work at AJC, Dr. Shaw Frank held educational and administrative roles at Jewish secondary and higher education institutions including SAR High School and Yeshivat Maharat. Prior to her career in the Jewish community, she was a corporate litigator at Stroock & Stroock & Lavan, LLP.
