The Jewish Community Center of St. Louis has announced that it has hired Amy Pakett as the new Director of Literary and Jewish Arts. In this role, she will direct the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival and occasional special Jewish events at the J. 

In joining the J’s staff, Pakett is leaving Jewish Federation of St. Louis, where she has served as communications manager since 2014.

Former Jewish Book Festival director Scott Berzon stepped down from the role in March when he was hired to serve as Executive Director of the St. Louis Jewish Light.

As a volunteer leader, Pakett has served as a BBYO advisor, and has been active in programs such as Nishmah and Next DOR STL. In 2017, she received the JProSTL Emerging Leader Award.

“I am so pleased that we were able to attract such a talented, impressive and professional individual such as Amy,” said St. Louis Jewish Book Festival co-chair Jean Margul in a statement. “I am positive that everyone who meets her will agree, and I am confident that under her tenure the proud tradition of the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival will continue and grow for years to come.”

Pakett will work with a committee of more than 75 volunteers to plan the annual book festival, which brings more than 30 authors to the J during two weeks in early November. 

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

For more information on the Jewish Book Festival, including how to join the festival’s planning committee, or how to become a sponsor, contact Pakett at [email protected] or 314-442-3152.