Contribute to SJSU's Jewish Studies Program

SJSU’s Jewish Studies Program is poised now to become a center of Jewish learning for the South Bay. The university is showing renewed commitment; the Jewish Studies advisory board is strong, diverse, and energetic; collaborative work between Hillel and Jewish Studies has never been stronger; and the community is showing its support by offering its philanthropic monies and resources.

New courses: As we propose to teach new courses—courses in the works include Jewish Cinema (Fall 2007), Global History of the Jews, History of Jewish Art, Jewish Law and Interpretation--the Jewish Studies Program commits to start-up funding: we fund the course the first time or two in order to build enrollment. The university covers costs once the course fills.

Hebrew education: Though enrollment in Hebrew is generally low, Jewish Studies commits to supporting Hebrew language instruction as vital for a strong Jewish Studies Program. In the spring we will be launching a campaign to endow a lectureship in Hebrew Language. News of the launch forthcoming!

Library: The Jewish Studies Program has received an excellent library of over 1000 books from retiring Rabbi Steven Kaplan. We will gratefully accept donations of gently used Jewish texts in all fields of study.

Furniture: We have been granted space for a Jewish Studies Center in SJSU’s Business Tower on 10th St. (News of the Center’s opening this fall, forthcoming!) We will gratefully accept donations of gently used furniture to outfit the center.  

Community support is very much appreciated. This past spring, thanks to a challenge grant by Eli Reinhard, community supporters gave generously. Individual philanthropic gifts have totaled $20,000 so far this year.

We are an agency of the SJSU Tower Foundation, a 501c3. Please send checks or credit card donations to the Tower Foundation, One Washington Square, San Jose, CA  95192. Please specify the Jewish Studies Program in a note accompanying your gift.