Meet Our Staff
Executive Director
Sara Astrow
Sara is a familiar face in Northern Virginia! She has lived in Northern Virginia for 41 years, and currently lives in Springfield. For 18 years, she was the Jewish Coordinator at Fort Belvoir. Additionally, for 22 years she has worked as the Parent Liaison at Holmes Middle School. Sara is a long time member of Olam Tikvah.
Interim Education Director
Melanie Berman
religiousschool@adatreyim.org
Melanie Berman, previously a respected teacher in our Religious School, holds a BA in Psychology from Bryn Mawr College and an MA in Jewish Education from American University. She is an innovative educator who has directed congregational schools and day schools across the country, inspiring students and their families to find joy and meaning in their exploration of Judaism.
Administrative Manager
Laurel Everly
Laurel is a transplant native of the metro area having lived in Fairfax County for the better part of 40 years. Presently she divides her time between her parents and grown children in the Springfield-Alexandria and Stafford areas. Her career has been largely focused on legal compliance and human resources for the financial sector. She spent 17 years with a local accounts receivables management provider before venturing into retail business ownership and independent contracting in commercial marketing, management consulting and federal EEO investigation. Her most important interests are her four children and six grandchildren.
Preschool Director
Therese Fournier
Therese is dedicated to making the synagogue’s Reggio-inspired pre-school a place where children are truly seen and celebrated. Therese has a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, and has received comprehensive training in the Reggio Emilia approach. Therese has held numerous leadership positions in private industry, nonprofits and community volunteer efforts. She is a mother of three children – all in their 20’s - and resides in Annandale with her husband. She loves to travel, read, watch documentaries and listen to historical podcasts.
