FAQ

About 

What is JSummit 2027? 

JSummit 2027 is the JCC Movement’s premier conference for lay and professional leaders. For three days, you’ll join lay and professional leaders from JCCs and independent JCC Camps across North America to connect, learn, and shape what comes next for your community and the movement. 

When and where is JSummit 2027? 

April 4–6, 2027, in Boston’s Seaport District. JSummit opens Sunday, April 4, at 1:30 p.m. and closes Tuesday, April 6, at 1 p.m.

Who should attend? 

JSummit is designed for board chairs, board members, CEOs and executive directors, senior professional leaders, and board liaisons who partner closely with lay leaders at JCCs and independent JCC Camps. The new Rising Lay Leader Experience welcomes board members early in their service or preparing for a board role. 

Why should I come as part of a delegation? 

Your community is strongest when lay and professional leaders learn side by side. When you attend together as a delegation, you share experiences, build a common vision, and return home ready to act on that vision together.

I’ve attended JSummit before. What’s new this time? 

After JSummit 2024, you told us you wanted more time with the people in the room. This time, you’ll connect with peers who share your role, region, and community size; choose from workshops grouped to fit your goals; have built-in time with your delegation; and make JTown Square your home base between sessions. Newer board members can also join the Rising Lay Leader Experience. 

Registration 

When does registration open? 

Registration will open in January.

How much does registration cost? 

Registration is $949 USD for U.S.-affiliated JCCs and independent JCC Camps, and $712 USD for Canadian JCCs and independent JCC Camps. One rate applies throughout, so you can register whenever your delegation is ready.

Do Ambassador-level JCCs receive a registration benefit? 

Yes. Ambassador-level JCCs receive one complimentary professional registration. 

Program 

What does the schedule look like? 

Visit the Schedule at a Glance page for a first look at your three days, and the Program page for details on plenaries, workshops, and networking. We’re adding speakers and events all the time, so check back often. All times are Eastern.  

What are plenaries? 

Plenaries are JSummit’s main sessions: conference-wide moments of learning, inspiration, and togetherness. Each one will spark ideas and conversations that will carry into the workshops that follow. Three plenaries will take you from start to finish across the entire JSummit experience. The Closing Plenary, a movement-wide experience, will feature a message from Barak Hermann, president and CEO of JCC Association of North America.  

How are workshops organized? 

Workshops are smaller, interactive sessions on high-impact topics. They’re grouped to help you find what fits your role and goals, and you’re free to choose any workshop that interests you. 

Do I sign up for workshops in advance? 

You choose your workshops onsite at JSummit, giving you the freedom to follow your interests in the moment. Delegations often plan ahead and divide their team across workshop groupings to cover more ground, bringing home maximum information and ideas.

Will I have time with peers? 

Yes. Your delegation will have opportunities to meet with peers by region, budget size, and interests. Details are coming soon.

What is the Rising Lay Leader Experience? 

The Rising Lay Leader Experience is a new JSummit initiative for the next generation of JCC and independent JCC Camp leaders, with some programming designed specifically for this audience. Details are coming soon.

Can I submit a session proposal? 

The JSummit Planning Committee selects all programming for JSummit 2027. Share your ideas with the JSummit team at JSummit@jcca.org and stay connected for future opportunities to contribute.

What is JTown Square? 

JTown Square is your place to connect, recharge, and have fun throughout the conference. Use it to meet up with a colleague or schedule time with a participant or an invited guest. 

What is the JTown Marketplace With Friends? 

The JTown Marketplace With Friends is an afternoon of discovery with partners who support your work. It will take place on Monday, April 5. 

What happens in the evenings? 

On Sunday, we will gather for networking and cocktails followed by a conference-wide dinner with entertainment. Monday evening is yours to explore Boston’s Seaport District with your delegation or friends, old and new.

Where will I find the conference program? 

All JSummit 2027 materials—schedules, speakers, session details, and more—will be at your fingertips in the JSummit app. Watch for its launch as the conference gets closer.  

Local Synagogues and Services 

Where can I attend services during JSummit? 

The JSummit app includes a list of local synagogues, so you can easily find a place to pray during your time in Boston. 

Will there be a minyan at JSummit? 

Yes. When you register, you can tell us if you’re saying Kaddish (the Mourner’s Prayer) and need a minyan (a prayer quorum of 10 adults), or if you’d like to help make one. That way, everyone who needs a minyan has one.

Travel and Logistics 

Where should I stay? 

You’ll enjoy a special JSummit rate of $279 per night at the conference hotel in Boston’s Seaport District. Your registration confirmation will include a link to book your stay in the hotel block. The rate will be available from April 1–6, 2027, so you can arrive early or stay longer to enjoy Boston.

How do I get to the Seaport District? 

Boston Logan International Airport is a short trip by taxi, rideshare, or public transit. Traveling by train? Amtrak’s South Station is a short ride or walk from the Seaport District. 

I’m traveling from the West Coast or Canada. How should I plan? 

Plan your travel so you’re settled and ready for the Sunday afternoon opening.

Will meals be provided? 

  • Dinner (Sunday)
  • Light breakfast (Monday and Tuesday)
  • Lunch (Monday and Tuesday)
  • Snacks throughout the conference
  • Coffee, tea, and water throughout the conference 

All food and beverages served at the conference will be under the supervision of Vaad Harabonim of New England.

What accessibility accommodations are available? 

JSummit welcomes every participant. Share your accommodation needs during registration or email JSummit@jcca.org, and the team will work with you.

Recruitment and Staying Connected 

How can I help bring my community to JSummit? 

Visit the Build a Delegation page for ready-to-go resources that will help you invite your lay and professional leaders, build your delegation, and share your excitement on social media.

How can I stay up to date? 

Join the JSummit 2027 communications list and get timely updates about speakers, sessions, registration, and more.

Whom can I contact with questions? 

Reach the JSummit team at JSummit@jcca.org.