Rabbi Phil Karesh is the incoming Chief Executive Officer of the Associated Talmud Torahs (ATT) of Chicago, a position he will assume in January 2025. With a deep passion for Jewish education and community building, Rabbi Karesh brings the energy, dedication, and wisdom necessary to advance Jewish learning and foster excellence throughout the Chicago Day School system.

Rabbi Karesh is a proud graduate of the Chicago Day Schools system, having attended Hillel Torah and Fasman Yeshiva High School, before continuing his studies at Yeshivat Sha’alvim and earning his bachelor’s degree in biology from Yeshiva University. He received rabbinic ordination from Yeshivas Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan and a master’s degree in Educational Administration from Loyola University. He also spent his formative years learning and teaching in Eretz Yisroel, honing his skills as an educator and leader.

Over the past 25 years, Rabbi Karesh has gained a wealth of experience in both formal and informal Jewish education. He most recently served as Executive Director of Community Projects & Partnerships at the Orthodox Union, where he spearheaded the innovative GenAleph Parenting Initiative. Previously, he held roles as Director of Education for Midwest NCSY and as a Rebbe at Hillel Torah. In addition, he is a Daf Yomi maggid shiur at Beis Medrash Mikor HaChaim and a respected mohel, known for his contributions to the Chicago Jewish community.

Rabbi Karesh leads the highly capable and experienced ATT team with a steadfast commitment to academic and professional excellence. His leadership in the community is complemented by his wife, Mrs. Rachie Karesh, who serves as the Executive Director of Upward Community.

Rabbi Karesh’s dynamic blend of warmth, professional experience and communal leadership continues to inspire and empower the next generation of Jewish learners and leaders.