New Member Profile: Ellie and Andrew Savitz

BASICS: What are your names and any nicknames?

Ellie and Andrew Savitz. Some members may know Ellie as Mrs. Ells. We have a Bernedoodle named Mowgli (named after the Jungle Book character).

YOU: Tell us about you and your family.

Ellie was born and raised in Minnetonka, MN. She went to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio to study middle childhood education. Ellie moved back after college and now teaches 7th grade language arts at Minnetonka Middle School East. Andrew is from Weston, Florida. He came to Minnesota to attend the University of Minnesota and never left. Andrew is now the CEO of a healthcare startup and serves on the board of JFCS Minnesota.

We met on a blind date in 2019. We got our dog Mowgli in 2021 just before we got engaged. We were married on July 23, 2022 in Park City, Utah. Since then we have set down roots in Chanhassen, where we love to spend time outdoors, playing with Mowgli, reading good books, and enjoying our local hot spots.

Most of Ellie’s family is local, which is great for Shabbat dinners and birthday celebrations. Andrew’s dad and stepmom still live in Florida, and his mom and stepdad live in Park City, Utah—both places are the perfect vacation spots to visit.

BELONG: What does belonging to a synagogue mean to you?

Belonging to a synagogue means having a community rooted in similar values and traditions to support you through highs and lows.

HERE: Why did you choose Bet Shalom?

We chose Bet Shalom for the way it made us feel welcomed. We attended a high holiday service and loved the natural light, prayers, and sense of community. On our tour a few months later, we could see ourselves and future kids growing in the school and sanctuary. We are excited to join Bet Shalom’s community.