Staff
Debra Lytle
Executive Director
Originally from New York, Debra Lytle moved to Tucson in 2002 to attend the University of Arizona, where she studied Judaic Studies, Sociology and Public Health. After starting her family, she entered back into the workplace at CAI in 2013 and has served as Executive Director since ????.
Debra oversees the synagogue’s fundraising and development, membership, programming, maintenance and security, congregational events, room rentals, Kiddush and Oneg sponsorships, High Holy Days tickets and seating, cemetery, and administrative matters. She works closely with lay committees and the Board of Trustees to establish and implement sound and sustainable practices for the synagogue.
Allison Wetzel
Early Childhood Director
Allison Wetzel began serving as Early Childhood Director in June 2023.
She has worked as a CAI preschool assistant teacher, and as a dedicated preschool parent, served as the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) Co-Chair. Allison served as Dean of Students at BASIS Tucson Primary, where she was responsible for documenting, organizing, and supporting teachers in preparing and executing student academic and behavioral support systems She has more than 12 years of teaching experience.
Allison holds a Master of Education degree in Educational Leadership, a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, an Arizona Standard Elementary Certificate, and an Arizona Full Structured English Immersion Endorsement.
Lanette Garnett
Controller
Lanette Garnett began serving as the Controller at CAI in October 2023, overseeing all financial operations.
Lanette has been an integral part of our team since May 2022 as our Bookkeeper and Finance Assistant, after 20 years of work as an accountant, accounting office manager, accounts receivable and payable specialist, and office manager.
During her tenure at CAI, Lanette has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in managing all aspects of accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and general ledger accounting transactions, in addition to assisting with myriad other aspects of synagogue and front o ice operations. Her work ethic, communication skills, dedication and expertise have been instrumental in maintaining the fiscal integrity of our organization. Lanette’s friendly disposition and embrace of the importance of relationships with our synagogue members is one of the hallmarks of her role.