Scott Berzon will serve as the new, full-time director of the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival, the Jewish Community Center recently announced. He replaces Marcia Evers Levy, who resigned in November after 15 years in the position.

Berzon has served in sales, management, and marketing roles in higher education publishing since receiving his Masters in Fine Arts in creative writing from the University of Michigan. Most recently, he has worked at two premier publishing houses, W. W. Norton & Company, Inc. and Macmillan, where he worked closely with authors, planning author events and travel.

“I am so pleased that we were able to attract such a talented, impressive and professional individual such as Scott,” says Lenore Pepper, past JCC Board President and past co-chair of the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival, who participated in the interview process. “I am positive that everyone who meets him will agree and I am confident under his tenure the proud tradition of the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival will continue and grow for many years to come.”

The St. Louis Jewish Book Festival is recognized across the country as being one of the strongest and best attended of its kind. In the course of two weeks in early November, more than 30 authors take the stage at the JCC to share their latest books, which inspire, entertain, and educate thousands on a range of topics.  A committee of 75-plus volunteers meets throughout the year to help in the planning. 

 “The Festival and its large team of volunteers maintain a reputation like none other in the country. I am honored to take on this role and bring my publishing experiences to the table,” said Berzon.

For information on joining the planning committee, becoming a sponsor, or other information, contact Berzon at [email protected] or 314-442-3152.