UJS Chair praised after decision to step down
Daniel Dangoor's leadership described as having 'combined wisdom, humility, and a deep care for both the student community and the professional team'
The chair of trustees of the Union of Jewish Students has announced he is to step down from the position, with the organisation praising his “outstanding contribution” as well as his “support and vision”.
Daniel Dangoor, who served as UJS chair for two years, described his time in the post as “an enormous privilege”, saying that “I have poured a huge amount of energy and time into helping the organisation grow stronger, building our governance, supporting the professional team, and shaping a long-term vision that reflects the values of Jewish students across the country. I now feel it is the right moment for someone else to step in and drive the next phase of growth and professionalisation as UJS continues to cement its position as a pillar organisation for the Jewish community more broadly.
“The past two years have been turbulent times for our community and especially for students on campus, and I am proud that despite this, UJS is thriving with record levels of engagement.”
The organisation’s Vice Chair, Carolyn Bogush, will serve as Interim chair, with the process to appoint a new chair to begin shortly.
Bogush praised Dangoor’s “outstanding contribution to UJS, guiding the Board through a period of strategic reflection and growth. His steady leadership has left UJS in a strong and forward-looking position.
“As Interim Chair, I’m committed to ensuring a smooth transition and to supporting our professional team and student leaders as we continue to champion Jewish student life across the UK and Ireland.”
The Union of Jewish students serves approximately 9,000 Jewish students, across 75 different Jewish student societies at higher education institutions across the UK and Ireland. The organisation elects a President – generally an individual finishing their own time at university – on an annual basis. There is also a sabbatical staff team – again, usually recent graduates, most of whom serve for one or two years in their roles – as well as a permanent chief executive. The previous chief executive, Arieh Miller, left UJS earlier this year after six years in the role, and was succeeded by Mervyn Kaye, former CEO of Youth First.
Kaye said: “Daniel’s leadership has combined wisdom, humility, and a deep care for both the student community and the professional team. He leaves the organisation in excellent health, with a clear strategy and strong governance. I’m grateful for his partnership and delighted that Carolyn will provide continuity and guidance as we move forward.”
Louis Danker, President of UJS, described Dangoor as “a dedicated and thoughtful Chair who always centred students in every decision. His support and vision have been invaluable as we’ve navigated complex challenges and opportunities.
“On behalf of Jewish students, I want to thank him sincerely — and I look forward to working closely with Carolyn and the Board as we continue to build on this strong foundation.”
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