Thursday, December 13, 2012

Middlebury Language Schools

Great opportunities for the study of Hebrew this summer.

With nearly 100 years of experience teaching intensive-immersion language programs, the Middlebury Language Schools can help students earn transferable credits and make significant gains in language proficiency while following the Language Pledge®. Programs for beginners to graduate students are available in ten languages at two sites. Program dates and fees vary.
The Kathryn Davis Fellowships for Peace deadline is approaching! Please let your students know about this opportunity to study at the Middlebury Language Schools during the summer of 2013. Middlebury awards 100 fellowships which cover the comprehensive fee (tuition, room and board) for one summer of study at the Language Schools. The fellowships are open to students studying Arabic, Chinese, Hebrew, Japanese, Portuguese or Russian. The deadline is January 14th. Additional information is available on the website.

We are currently accepting applications for Summer 2013! Need-based financial aid is also available.

http://www.middlebury.edu/ls/finaid/fellowships/kwd


Friday, December 7, 2012

PAID fellowship for recent graduates starting September 2013

Paid Fellowship Opportunity:

The Yiddish Book Center is accepting applications (applications are due by January 4th, 2013) for its prestigious one-year Fellowship. Fellows, who work as paid staff at the Center, spearhead new initiatives and programs. Fellows have worked on the launch of the Center’s Wexler Oral History Project; overseeing the remastering and digitization of more than 1,500 rare audio recordings of lectures by renowned Yiddish writers; support of on-site and online Yiddish courses; helping with the development of a tablet-based multimedia Yiddish textbook; the launch of a translation website; production of a weekly podcast series; publication; and more. The Fellowship provides candidates with a unique opportunity to develop professional skills and experience. The Fellowship Program begins in September 2013 and runs through August 2014. Learn more: http://www.yiddishbookcenter.org/fellowship-program#APP

Halpern Award First Call for Applications

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

ETHEL M. HALPERN AWARD IN JEWISH STUDIES
for Undergraduate Jewish Studies students at the University of Pittsburgh
funded by the Ethel M. Halpern Endowed Fund for Students.

APPLICATIONS DUE: Monday February 25, 2013, 4 pm.
Undergraduate students are invited to apply for funding for any of the following purposes:
• travel or living expenses associated with a study abroad experience involving Jewish studies;
• travel or living expenses associated with participation in a summer language program in Hebrew, Yiddish, or another language relevant to Jewish studies;
• travel or living expenses associated with participation in an unpaid internship program connected to Jewish studies;
• travel expenses related to other study or research in Jewish studies;
• purchase of books or other materials related to research in Jewish studies.

Awards of up to $1000 each will be made for projects in the Summer of 2013 or during Academic Year 2013-2014. Halpern Awards may be held in conjunction with other University and external funding in cases where the project costs exceed $1000.

The following application materials must be received in the Jewish Studies office, 2604 Cathedral of Learning, by 4 pm, Monday February 25, 2013: IN HARD COPY
• a cover sheet with the following information: the student’s name, preferred mailing address, telephone number, Pitt e-mail address, a title for their project, and a brief (2-3 sentence) description of the proposed activities
• a statement of purpose (2-3 double-spaced pages) explaining the proposed activities in greater detail and how the activities will further the student’s undergraduate studies;
• a detailed budget of all anticipated expenses related to the proposed activities, including a list of other aid applied for, and a statement of the amount (up to $1000) requested from the Halpern Fund
• an academic advisement transcript from Pitt and official transcripts from any previous undergraduate institutions;
• a letter of recommendation from a Pitt faculty member familiar with the student’s academic work
Eligibility:
• Full-time undergraduates in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences.
• Have completed or be currently enrolled in at least one Jewish studies class (including Hebrew language) at the University of Pittsburgh.

For any questions about the award, please contact: Adam Shear, Director, Jewish Studies, ashear[at]pitt.edu.

Friday, November 9, 2012

Free Summer Program at Yiddish Book Center


Students: FREE Yiddish summer program at the National Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Massachusetts. Check out this video: http://blip.tv/yiddish-book-center-video/learn-about-the-yiddish-book-center-s-steiner-summer-yiddish-program-6427718

Leo Baeck Summer University 2013

We are happy to announce that the application period for the Leo Baeck Summer University 2013 has begun.

We'd greatly appreciate your sharing this information with your students and placing it in any upcoming bulletins / journals.

The Leo Baeck Summer University is an English-language six-week summer school in Jewish studies at the Humboldt University, Berlin, under the auspices of the new Zentrum für Jüdische Studien Berlin-Brandenburg. Advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students are encouraged to apply for this unique program. As a transatlantic bridge and international meeting point for education and exchange, the LBSU examines Jewish life in Germany before and after the Holocaust, with a particular focus on the contemporary experience in relation to the broader and ever more diverse German society as well as to other Jewish communities in Israel, the United States and worldwide.

Students are enrolled in a daily, three-hour morning academic seminar and attend professionally led excursions and lectures in the afternoon, which complement the subjects presented in the academic segment. The academic seminar is divided into three two-week modules, each with a different focus and taught by different faculty members. Upon successful completion of the program students are granted 12 ECTS credits.

The LBSU 2013 will take place from July 4 to August 16, 2013. Fees include tuition, housing, excursions and Berlin city transportation. A limited number of partial and full scholarships are available. Application deadline is January 15, 2013.
Thanks in advance for sharing this information with interested students at your university/institute. For more information, see www.lbsu.de.

Call for Proposals: Europe: East and West Undergraduate Symposium


On Friday, April 12, 2013, we will be sponsoring the Europe: East and West Undergraduate Research Symposium at the University of Pittsburgh. Modeled after traditional academic conferences, students will present their research papers on Western and Eastern Europe, including Russia, at the symposium to discussants and an audience.

Please encourage your students to apply to the symposium. As a professor who teaches courses and/or conducts research pertaining to Europe, you are in a good position to promote this event. If you had students who submitted papers last spring or currently have students who will be submitting papers on Western or Eastern Europe, please encourage them to submit their papers for consideration.

Applications and more information can also be found at http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/ursymposium/.

Deadlines:
1) Students must submit applications with 250-300 word abstracts by January 28, 2013.
2) Selected students will be notified by mid-February 2013.
3) Final revised papers are due by March 20, 2013.
4) Presentations will be made at the Symposium on April 12, 2013.

If you have questions about the symposium, please contact Steve Lund at slund@pitt.edu or (412) 648-7244. Thank you for your help!

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration



The University of Pittsburgh Department of German and
Jewish Studies Program
and the Hillel-Jewish University Center


Present


The Annual Commemoration of
Kristallnacht

(The “Night of Broken Glass” on November 9-10, 1938)

Thursday, November 8, 2012
4:30-5:30pm

Hillel-Jewish University Center
4607 Forbes Avenue


Music by CMU Klezmer Band
Introductory Remarks by Alexander Orbach and Clark Muenzer
Readings by Pitt Students
Video Excerpts from Witnesses and Survivors





Monday, October 29, 2012

Two Nations & Three Religions in Israel and Palestine

I would like to bring to your attention the Galillee Institute's Joint Israeli Palestinian Winter Session "Two Nations & Three Religions in Israel and Palestine", that is scheduled to be held on 27 December, 2012 – 08 January, 2013.
The programme incorporates lectures and study tours, and allows the participants to develop a personal acquaintance with the sites, cultures and peoples that inhabited this region in the past. Together, these experiences contribute to an understanding of the issues which exist today.
For your convenience we have now extended the Early bird registration to 15th November. A limited number of tuition scholarships are still available to qualified candidates.

Students and faculty members who are interested should contact the Programme Director – Mrs. Shiri Salant-Fein e-mail: ssalant@galilcol.ac.il
Our programme is in cooperated with EMUNI and hence the students can benefit credits by handing a paper after concluding the programme.
Kind regards & SHALOM,

Shiri Salant-Fein
Programme Director (web page: http://www.galilcol.ac.il/page.asp?id=344)
International Centre of Middle East and Religious Studies
Galilee Institute
Israel
ssalant@galilcol.ac.il

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Looking for Jewish Learning Opportunities in and around Pittsburgh?

These are not for credit but may be of interest--this is from the Agency for Jewish Learning.

Current Events

Broadcasts from New York’s 92nd Street Y sponsored by Temple Sinai
October 2, November 8, November 28, December 17, and January 16
Experience selections from the 92nd Street Y’s famous lecture series in live broadcast at Temple Sinai. Topics for the year include “Relevant Octogenarians”and “What is Jewish Culture?”
at Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue. $15/lecture for the general public.
For more information contact Nicole Mezare at nmezare@templesinaipgh.org or at 412-421-9715 or visit http://www.templesinaipgh.org/92nd-street-y/

Lecture and book talk with Dr. Robert Putnam sponsored by Temple Sinai
Saturday, December 1, 2012. Havdalah service and dessert reception at 7 p.m., lecture at 8 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue
Dr. Robert D. Putnam will discuss his recent book, "American Grace; How Religion Unites and Divides Us." Author of "Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community," Dr. Putnam is the Peter and Isabel Malkin Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University, and the preeminent religious sociologist in the United States. Courtesy of the Pamela K. Wiles Fund.
For more information contact Nicole Mezare, nmezare@templesinaipgh.org or 412-421-9715


Hebrew

Read Hebrew America sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom
October 10, 17, 24; November 7, 14; 7:30 – 9 p.m. at Congregation Beth Shalom
Learn to read Hebrew in just five sessions! Levels I and II offered. With Ruth Fauman-Fichman and Lidush Goldschmidt.
For more information contact Congregation Beth Shalom at 412-421-2288.

Hebrew Classes sponsored by Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Classes generally offered on Mondays or Wednesdays depending on the level, in the late afternoon or early evening.
Congregation Emanu-El Israel will offer Hebrew classes at a variety of levels, taught by Shoshana Halden. For more info call Shoshana Halden, 724-744-0037


Holocaust Studies

The Ethel LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference sponsored by Seton Hill University October 21-23, 2012 at Seton Hill University
Triennial conference on the Holocaust. This year’s theme is “Holocaust Education: Challenges for the Future.” There will be a variety of presenters including Rabbi Yitz Greenberg, Yehudah Bauer (by Video), and Carol Rittner. There will be a registration fee, although Rabbi Yitz Greenberg’s keynote on Sunday October 21 from 7:30-9 PM is free and open to the public
For more info or to register call Wilda Kaylor 724-830-1033


Jewish Community

HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT THEY KNOW? Our Community’s Relationship with Jewish Education in the Future sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh & AJL
Monday, December 3, 2012, 7 pm, Jewish Community Center, Robinson Bldg., Squirrel Hill
Part of the series “Conversations for a Jewish Future” with Dr. Amy Sales of the Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies at Brandeis University. $10/session advanced registration • $15 at the door. Contact Danielle Kranjec at the Agency for Jewish Learning for more information at 412-521-1101 or dkranjec@ajlpittsburgh.org.

SOCIAL JUSTICE IF NOT NOW, THEN? Our Community’s Relationship with Social Justice in the Future sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Pgh & AJL
Wed., March 13, 2013, 7pm Jewish Community Center, Robinson Bldg., Squirrel Hill
Part of the series “Conversations for a Jewish Future” with Rabbi Stephanie Ruskay. $10/session advanced registration • $15 at the door. Contact Danielle Kranjec at the Agency for Jewish Learning for more information at 412-521-1101 or dkranjec@ajlpittsburgh.org.


Jewish Culture

Yiddish Club sponsored by J’Burgh Yiddish Club
Sept. 12, 2012 at 8 p.m.
Sholem aleykhem! The J'Burgh Yiddish Club is for those interested in studying Yiddish and/or celebrating Yiddish culture. Why might you want to join the Yiddish club? To open a whole world of Jewish literature, history, and music to which you formerly had no access. Whatever your reason and no matter your background, seize this opportunity while you can!
If you are interested in the club, contact Jaclyn at jgranick@gmail.com.

Cynthia Ozick and the Jewish Short Story sponsored by Rodef Shalom Congregation
Mondays, October 15-November 19, 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Library at Rodef Shalom
This class will explore, through lively lecture and discussion, the short story of Jewish author and essayist Cynthia Ozick. Instructor Eric Lidji brings his knowledge and love of literature to this class that is sure to inspire and keep you wanting to read and learn more! Free. For more information contact Rabbi Amy Hertz, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning at 412-621-6566 x130 or hertz@rodefshalom.org


Sing and Study with Dan Nichols sponsored by Rodef Shalom Congregation
Sept.7-9, Nov. 8-10, 2012; Jan. 3-6, March 14-16, April 26-28 2013.
Sing and study with Rodef Shalom Congregation’s Artist-in-Residence Dan Nichols, made possible by the generosity of the Fine Family Foundation. Don’t miss this special opportunity to sing, study, and worship with the acclaimed Jewish musician and composer.
Free. For more information contact Rabbi Amy Hertz, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning at 412-621-6566 x130 or hertz@rodefshalom.org


Jewish History

The Jews of Spain: Between Convivencia and Intolerance sponsored by Cong. Dor Hadash
Wednesdays October 24, November 7, 14, 21; 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Tree of Life*Or L’Simcha (Robinson Pavillion), 5898 Wilkins Avenue, Pittsburgh 15217
The presence of the Jews in the Iberian Peninsula dates at least as far back as Roman times. In four sessions, we will examine the Jewish presence in the Iberian Peninsula through the Expulsion of 1492 with a focus on the “convivencia” (coexistence) of Jewish with Christians and Muslims throughout this period. With Michal Friedman, Ph.D.
Free, RSVP requested. To RSVP or for more information call 412-422-5158 or email admin@dorhadash.net

Journey Through Jewish History sponsored by Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Beginning November 12, 7:30-8:30 pm, and continues the second Monday of the month thereafter at Temple Emanuel. The Journey begins with Creation as the basis of Jewish historiography and continues from there. With Rabbi Mark Mahler. Free.

Jews in the American Revolution sponsored by Beth Israel Center of the South Hills
Sunday, November 11, 2012, 7:30 PM at Beth Israel Center, 118 Gill Hall Rd., Jefferson Hills. This program will detail the contributions made by the small Jewish population of the colonies to the success of the American Revolution and will be presented by a freelance writer and journalist currently preparing for publication a historical novel based on the experiences of a colonial Jewish family. Teacher: Pamela R. Winnick, freelance journalist and writer.
Cost: Free and open to the public. Contact information to learn more or to RSVP: Beth Israel Center: 412-655-2144 /Shirley Schultz: 412-653-1153


Jewish Mysticism

The Kabbalah of You: A Guide to Unlocking Your Hidden Potential sponsored by Chabad of Pittsburgh. 6 Tuesdays, Oct. 30-Dec. 4, 12:15-1:30 pm Downtown, Grant Bldg., 310 Grant St. Kosher Lunch provided. 6 Wednesdays, Oct. 31-Dec. 5, 7:30-9:00pm, Chabad of Pittsburgh, 6401 Forbes Avenue. Fee: $90, $144 couples. Are you all you can be? How can you unleash the infinite power of your soul within? This course provides a mystical roadmap to living a life of happiness, fulfillment, and self-actualization by revealing how you can thrive and be more than just alive. With Rabbi Yisroel Altein. For http://www.myjli.com or email jli@chabadpgh.com or call 412.421.3561

Jewish Religion

Conservative Judaism Today and in the Future sponsored: Beth Israel Center of the S. Hills
Sunday, October, 28, 2012, 7:30 PM at Beth Israel Center, 118 Gill Hall Rd., Jefferson Hills
A discussion and debate touching on questions concerning Conservative Judaism practices today and changes, controversial and not, which are being discussed for incorporation in the future. Topics may include the concept of patrilineal descent as proof of Judaism and changes in the prayer book. Teacher: Rabbi Alex Greenbaum of Congregation Beth El.
Free and open to the public. For information or to RSVP: Beth Israel Center: 412-655-2144 /Shirley Schultz: 412-653-1153

A Taste of Judaism sponsored by Temple David
Dates and times to be determined. At Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville
A Taste of Judaism…Are You Curious?™ is designed for people who have limited or no Jewish background but are interested in learning about Judaism. Many participants are unaffiliated Jews who don’t feel that they know much about their religion, the adult children of interfaith couples, non-Jews who are interested in learning more about Judaism, and partners in Interfaith relationships. With Rabbi Barbara Symons. No Charge, for more information contact the Temple David office at 412-372-1200



Jewish Text Study

Aliya Workshop sponsored by Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Sunday, September 9, 2012 Noon to 1PM, Congregation Emanu-El Israel, Greensburg
Review of blessings before and after the Torah reading. With Rabbi Sara Perman.
Free. For more info call CEI 724-834-0560

Torah Study sponsored by Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Saturdays, October 13, November17, December 8 at Noon at Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Ongoing monthly look at the Torah; Currently in the Book of Numbers. With Rabbi Sara Perman
Free (includes light Kiddush refreshments). For more info and to RSVP call CEI 724-834-0560

Torah Study sponsored by Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Every Saturday, 9:00 am at Temple Emanuel
Come explore the weekly Torah portion! With Rabbi Mark Mahler. Free

Tehillim (Psalms) and Tangents sponsored by Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Beginning Wednesday, October 17, 10-11 am, and continuing every Wednesday thereafter at Temple Emanuel
Now that we’ve finished reading every word of the Torah, we turn to Psalms. Tehillim is the Bible’s most beautiful book. With Rabbi Mark Mahler. Free

Talmud Study sponsored by Rodef Shalom Congregation
Nov. 2, 9; Jan. 4, 11; March 1, 8; May 3, 10, 17; 12-1 p.m. at Krause Conf. Rm. at Rodef Shalom Join us as we delve into one of our people’s most exciting and living texts! Relevant and applicable texts will be studied. No previous knowledge necessary. Texts will be studied in English. With Rabbi Amy Hertz. Bring your lunch, drinks provided. Free.
For more information contact Rabbi Amy Hertz, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning at 412-621-6566 x130 or hertz@rodefshalom.org

The Other Talmud: The Yerushalmi sponsored by Temple David
April 26 -April 28, at Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville
Weekend with Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD., founder and director of Maqom school for Adult Talmud Study. Rabbi Abrams will conduct adult programs following the Friday evening Shabbat services and Saturday morning Shabbat services. There will also be a program on Saturday afternoon. Exact times to be determined.
COST: There will be no cost for Friday evening or Saturday morning services. Other costs to be determined. For more information, contact the Temple David office –412-372-1200


Jewish Thought

Tanya-Chassidic Philosophy sponsored by Chabad of Pittsburgh
Ongoing, Monday nights 8:30-9:30pm at the Meyer home, 2415 Beechwood Blvd.
Tanya, the fundamental text of Chassidic thought, gives you insight into your inner world and helps you discover new strategies for overcoming obstacles to change and progress. You learn to resolve guilt, conflict, and confusion, and to traverse life’s journey with joy, purpose, and direction. This is a discussion and workshop based class with selected readings from the text of Tanya. With Rabbi Yisroel Altein. No cost; for more info, info@chabadpgh.com, or 412.421.3561

Beth Shalom University sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom, Squirrel Hill
Monday, Oct. 22; Tuesday, Oct. 30; Monday, Nov. 12 at 7:30-9 p.m. at Cong. Beth Shalom. Beth Shalom University is a series of adult learning opportunities, offered for members and guests, usually on a single theme. Track 1 will feature “Rarely Read Jewish Philosophers” taught by Dr. Mark Staitman. Track 2 will feature“Contemporary Jewish Artists” by various guest presenters including Franklin Toker, Leslie Golomb, and Ben Schachter. Suggested contribution $7/session or $18 for three sessions. Contact Congregation Beth Shalom at 412-421-2288 for more information or visit www.bethshalompgh.org

Jewish Women’s Studies

Women of the Bible sponsored by Temple David
November 7, 10 am and 7:30 pm; November 14, 10 am and 7:30 pm; November 28, 10 am and 7:30 pm; December 5, 10 am and 7:30 p.m. at Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville
Often the women of the Hebrew Bible are voiceless and nameless. This is a unique opportunity to draw out their voices through their actions and the immediate as well as evolving response to them. Using traditional and modern commentaries, women’s commentaries as well as our own life experiences, we will help Eve, Sarah, Esther, Vashti and the women of Exodus Chapter One find their voices and in so doing, discover ours. With Rabbi Barbara Symons. No Charge.
For more information contact the Temple David office –412-372-1200

Monday, October 15, 2012

Spring Research Awards for Undergraduates

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences
Spring Undergraduate Research Awards
for Independent Research in
Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is seeking applicants to join a diverse community of undergraduate scholars and researchers from the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Awardees receive $1,000 to support spring semester independent research.

Applications will be accepted from any Dietrich School undergraduate who:

• is in good academic standing;
• has completed 30 Pitt credit hours of academic work;
• has declared a disciplinary major, and
• has a faculty mentor who is within the project discipline who will be responsible for the oversight of the project.

ContacT: Office of Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (OUR), 209 Thackeray Hall

Deadline: November 16, 2012.

Undergraduates: Spring Break Opportunity in the Largest Jewish City in the World

If you have research plans that would benefit from access to libraries, museums, historic site, or other resources, this is a great opportunity:


The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences
New York City Field Studies Program

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is seeking applicants for a New York City undergraduate research field studies program to take place over spring break, March 10-15, 2013. The program, which covers students’ travel, accommodations, and some meals, enriches students’ independent research by providing them the opportunity to conduct research outside the readily available resources of the University of Pittsburgh. Daily meetings and other educational and cultural activities will be scheduled. These activities will provide a connective tissue for the program, immersing the undergraduates in New York’s vibrant intellectual and cultural life.

Applications will be accepted from any Dietrich School undergraduate who:

• is in good academic standing;
• has earned a minimum of 30 Pitt credits and declared a disciplinary major, and
• has a faculty mentor who is within the project discipline who will be responsible for the oversight of the project.

Application DUE: November 16, 2012
CONTACT: Office of Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (OUR), 209 Thackeray Hall

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Major-Minor-AND CERTIFICATE-Fair Today

There will be a Jewish Studies table at today's major-minor expo at the William Pitt Union. Come by between 11 and 2:30 today to meet faculty from the program and get information about the Certificate and about courses in the spring. Or just say hello.

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Halpern Award Recipient Reports on Her Summer Research

Kate Beach, a senior Religious Studies major, was awarded a 2012 Halpern Award. She offers these words about her experience:


"In late August 2012, I had the opportunity to travel to Chapel Hill, North Carolina, and examine the Phoebe Yates Pember letters, part of the University of North Carolina’s Southern Historical collection. Through the generous gift of the Halpern family, I was able to spend several days working directly with Mrs. Pember’s letters and documents, giving me a unique perspective on the life of a Jewish woman during the Civil War. Mrs. Pember’s letters spanned nearly sixty years, beginning with the years before the war and her work with the Chimborazo Confederate Hospital in Richmond, Virginia, and ending with the final months of her life. Her documents touched on countless topics, problems and events, and painted a compelling portrait of a strong Jewish woman living in times of vast change and upheaval.


"By the end of my visit, I felt that I knew Mrs. Pember. I read long exchanges between Mrs. Pember and siblings, friends and even potential suitors. I held a rejection letter from a literary magazine and felt her disappointment. I celebrated the acceptance letters that followed. I was given a very private look into a real woman’s life, lived over a century before mine, and was able to gain a new perspective on life for Jewish women both during and after the Civil War.


"I began to research Mrs. Pember for my capstone paper in religious studies. As I continue my research on Jews in the Confederacy and explore the role of Jewish women specifically during this time of unrest, I will carry Mrs. Pember’s letters with me. She has provided me with an invaluable primary source that goes far beyond any information I could have found today. The Halpern Award made my trip possible, and has given me an opportunity that I was proud and honored to receive."



For more information on last year's Halpern Award competition, see here.

Internship Option in Warsaw

2013 CIVITAS-GEL PROFESSIONAL INTERNSHIP PROGRAM IN WARSAW, POLAND (Winter, Spring and Summer) in ENGLISH The professional internships (in English) are supervised by Collegium Civitas and include 25-30 hours of internship per week at public, private and non-profit institutions in Warsaw. Students can apply for a minimum of 4-week and up to 20-week internships. Interested students can also register for credited academic and internship seminars offered by Collegium Civitas and a Polish language course. INTERNSHIPS (IN ENGLISH) The program offers a unique opportunity for a limited number of students to undertake full-time professional internships at various public and non-profit organizations in Warsaw, Poland. Civitas internships can be undertaken with Jewish Historical Institute, and the Museum of the History of Polish Jews. Internships in history and curatorial studies are also available. Winter/Spring Internships -between January 10 - June 15 Summer Internships - between May 15- July 31 How to Apply Graduate and undergraduate students can apply. GEL-Civitas internship program has a rolling admission and interested applicants are invited to submit their applications to the program anytime until Nov. 20 for Winter internship and April 20 for the summer internship. CONTACT Inquiries about the program can be directed to Olena Tregub, CEO, Global Educational Leadership, or by calling 646 670 6089. For more information about the program, application form and costs, click here About Us GEL Mission statement At no other time in history has such a great number of young people been able to choose among so many international education and career opportunities. Yet, far too often, this chance remains unrealized and fails to translate into reality. GEL strives to bridge the gap between the aspirations of this generation and its real chances for global educational development and genuine leadership growth in areas of professional interest.

Monday, September 10, 2012

Yiddish Club Meeting September 12

The Yiddish Club writes: "Sholem aleykhem! The J'Burgh Yiddish Club will be holding a meeting on Wednesday, September 12th, at 8pm for those interested in studying Yiddish and/or celebrating Yiddish culture. Homemade dessert will be served. Why might you want to join the Yiddish club? To open a whole world of Jewish literature, history, and music to which you formerly had no access. To become part of a community of interesting, welcoming, and committed young people from Vilnius to Tel Aviv to New York and beyond. To truly learn about, stand for, and pass on your own culture. To connect to Judaism in a way that is deep, but not specifically religious, Zionist, or Holocaust-oriented. To learn the language your grandparents kept secret from your parents. To finally find the motivation to learn a second language. Whatever your reason and no matter your background, seize this opportunity while you can! RSVP here if you are interested, even if you can't make it: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/viewform?formkey=dGo3dTFKenFkQ1ZsUmM3NDZIQkNwVGc6MQ. The location will be sent out to those that RSVP."

Undergrads: publish your work

STUDENT WRITERS: The Office of Undergraduate Research is seeking submissions of research, scholarly articles, and creative writing for the FALL ISSUE of Dietrich School of Arts & Sciences http://www.ourpitt.blogspot.com/ FACEBOOK: O.U.R .Pitt FORBES & FIFTH MAGAZINE ALL A&S MAJORS WELCOME submissions due wed. oct. 3 email to forbes5@pitt.edu

Time to think about next summer!

The NATIONALITY ROOMS SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM announces the 2013 awards available to University of Pittsburgh full-time undergraduate and graduate students with the following criteria: Career goals with international components Foreign language skills Enrolling in an approved study abroad program (undergraduates and graduates) Conducting independent research at the graduate level Will be staying for a minimum of five weeks in one country or region next summer ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident Be a current full-time student on a University of Pittsburgh campus for the fall and spring terms prior to study abroad Must be enrolled and on campus as a full-time student for the fall and spring terms immediately following the study abroad Have a Q.P.A. of at least 3.0 For undergraduates- propose a career related, credit worthy study abroad or internship program of at least 5 weeks Undergraduates must have 60-90 credits by the end of April 2013 (be a current sophomore or junior) For graduate students- propose a career related, credit worthy study abroad, internship program or an independent research study of at least 5 weeks SCHOLARSHIPS OPEN TO ELIGIBLE GRADUATE STUDENTS AFRICA Beulah Glasco Memorial Award $3,500 ARMENIA Andrew J. Traina Memorial/ $4,000 Armenian Room Committee (for the study of Armenian culture) ASIA Dr. and Mrs. Ryonosuke Shiono Award $4,000 AUSTRIA Austrian Room Committee $3,500 (in honor of Frank and Marie Bulik) CHINA/HONG KONG/TAIWAN Chinese Room Committee $4,000 (in honor of Mike Chen) CHINA/HONG KONG/TAIWAN John H. Tsui Memorial Award $4,000 (for study of Chinese culture) CHILE Ivan Santa-Cruz Memorial Award $4,500 CZECH/SLOVAK REPUBLIC Czechoslovak Room Committee $4,500 DENMARK Herbert E. Lieberkind/Danish Room Committee $4,000 HUNGARY Hungarian Room Committee $3,500 Dr. Samuel Gomory/Joseph Arvay Memorial Award INDIA Indian Room Committee $3,500 ISRAEL Israel Heritage Room Committee $4,000 (for the study of Jewish culture/ first consideration given to programs in Israel) JAPAN Japanese Room Committee $3,500 LITHUANIA Josephine and John McCloskey Memorial Award $4,000 MIDDLE EAST/NEAR EAST Fred C. Bruhns Memorial Award $4,000 SCANDINAVIA Scandinavian Society of Western PA $4,000 UKRAINE Eugene Manasterski Memorial Award $4,000 ABROAD Ruth Crawford Mitchell Memorial Award $3,500 ABROAD Stanley Prostrednik Award $5,000 PHYSICAL THERAPY STUDENTS (SHRS) ABROAD Dorothy Bradley Brown Physical Therapy Award $3,500 SCHOLARSHIPS OPEN TO ELIGIBLE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AFRICA African Heritage Room Committee $5,000 AUSTRIA Austrian Room Committee $3,500 (in honor of John McDermott) CHINA/HONG KONG/TAIWAN John H. Tsui Memorial Award $4,000 (For study of Chinese culture) GERMANY German Room Committee $3,500 (in memory of Christel Van Maurik) HUNGARY Hungarian Room Committee $3,500 Dr. Samuel Gomory/Joseph Arvay Memorial Award IRELAND Mary Campbell Cross Scholarship $4,000 ISRAEL Israel Heritage Room Committee $4,000 LITHUANIA Lithuanian Room Committee $4,000 SCOTLAND Scottish Room Committee/ Frank and Vilma Slater Fund $3,500 ABROAD David L. Lawrence Memorial Award $4,000 ABROAD Rachel McMasters Miller Hunt Award $4,000 ABROAD Helen Pool Rush Award $4,000 ABROAD Savina S. Skewis Award $4,000 UNDERGRADUATE WOMEN ABROAD Women’s International Club $4,000 U.S. CITIZENS OF POLISH DESCENT *POLAND Polish Room Committee $3,500 /Kosciuszko Foundation *Must apply for the program at the Jagiellonian University in Krakow and complete the Tomaszkiewicz-Florio Scholarships. For more information click on to http://www.thekf.org/programs/study/admission_information/

Graduate Fellowships at Indiana University

Graduate Fellowships The Robert A. and Sandra S. Borns Jewish Studies Program Announces its 2013-2014 Graduate Fellowship Competition For Incoming Students The Friends of the Borns Jewish Studies Program Graduate Fellowship The Glazer Family Fellowship The Yiddish Graduate Fellowship The Alice Ginott Cohn, Ph.D. and Theodore Cohn Fellowship Review of applicants begins: Thursday, January 17, 2013 The Borns Jewish Studies Program offers fellowships for students accepted into a graduate degree program at Indiana University who show clear promise of dedicating themselves seriously to scholarship within one of the core areas of Jewish Studies. Each fellowship provides a stipend starting at $18,000 and a fee scholarship and can be tied to multi-year packages. Application Procedure: Prospective students must apply for admission directly to a graduate degree program at Indiana University. In order to be considered for a Jewish Studies fellowship, applicants to the IU Graduate School should send a copy of their completed Indiana University application and request that 3 letters of recommendation (in Word) be forwarded to iujsp@indiana.edu. Letters & application can also be mailed to: Professor Shaul Magid, Associate Director; Borns Jewish Studies Program; Indiana University; Goodbody Hall 326; 1011 E. Third St.; Bloomington, IN 47405-7005. Each application will be considered for all relevant fellowship and award opportunities. Review of 2013-2014 applications will begin on Thursday, January 17, 2013. For more information, see our web site: www.indiana.edu/~jsp/

Thursday, August 2, 2012

Fall Internship for Credit at Agency for Jewish Learning

Agency for Jewish Learning Internship For undergraduate students in the Jewish Studies Program, University of Pittsburgh Pre-requisites: Students must have taken at least one course in Jewish Studies Not open to first-year students Unpaid Minimum of 3 hours per week (credits vary with hours worked; see internship information on JS program web page--linked below) The Agency for Jewish Learning is offering unpaid internships for qualified students from the Jewish Studies Program at the University of Pittsburgh. Students must have taken at least one course in Jewish Studies, have their own laptop computer, and be able to travel to the Agency for Jewish Learning (located at 2740 Beechwood Blvd. in Squirrel Hill and accessible on several bus lines). Interns will conduct research, both on-line and in the library, to support the educational mission of the AJL. Interns will update our lists of on-line resources, find multimedia supplements for some of our adult education curricula, and use new media to support the promotion and execution of adult education classes and programs. Interns will be supervised by the Adult Education Coordinator. Knowledge of Hebrew and other Jewish languages a plus but not required. For more information about the internship, contact Danielle Kranjec, Adult Educaiton Coordinator, dkranjec@ajlpittsburgh.org. To arrange academic credit, follow the instructions here: http://www.jewishstudies.pitt.edu/undergraduate/JewishStudiesInternships.htm

Friday, May 25, 2012

2012 Graduate Wins Boren Scholarship!

Congratulations to 2012 JS Certificate receipient Arielle Ross on being awarded a Boren scholarship for study in Israel next year. The "Boren Scholarships provide up to $20,000 to U.S. undergraduate students to study abroad in areas of the world that are critical to U.S. interests and underrepresented in study abroad." These are very competitive national scholarships: 161 total were awarded out of an applicant pool of over 1000. Arielle is one of 3 Pitt students to receive the award. While in Israel, Arielle will pursue advanced study in modern standard Arabic and the Palestinian dialect. Kol ha-kavod and Mabrook!

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Isaac Bashevis Singer in Art and Song: Sunday June 3

Sunday, June 3 • 3 PM JCC Levinson Hall • 5738 Forbes Avenue Isaac Bashevis Singer’s World in Art and Song Featuring SUSAN LEVITON vocalist and storyteller Accompanied by accordionist LAUREN BRODY For more information, contact Melissa Hiller, AJM Director, at 412.521.8011 x105, or mhiller@jccpgh.org FREE FAMILY WORKSHOP Susan Leviton and Lauren Brody JCC Levinson Hall • Sunday, June 3 • 10 AM Inspired by the richness of Yiddish culture rooted in the heart of I.B. Singer’s stories, Leviton’s song selection will connect Yiddish songs and music to the writer’s life and literary themes. This project is partially supported by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council, the Federal-State Partner of the National Endowment for the Humanities and by a grant from Pennsylvania Performing Arts on Tour, a program developed and funded by The Heinz Endowments; the William Penn Foundation; the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts, a state agency; and The Pew Charitable Trusts; and administered by Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation. Additional support is provided by individual contributions. FREE CONCERT

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Jewish Studies Capstone Projects Presentations

You are invited:

Wednesday, April 25, 1-3:30 pm, 2628 Cathedral of Learning.
Jewish Studies certificate students will present their Jewish Studies 1901 Independent Study projects.
Undergraduates, come support your colleagues and hear about their interesting work.

(You will need a Pitt ID to enter the building.)

Monday, April 16, 2012

Holocaust Memorial Day

Hillel-JUC with support from the Sittsamer Fund for Holocaust Studies presents:
International Holocaust Memorial day 2012

ON WEDNESDAY APRIL 18

Name reading held from 9 am-7:30 pm outside of the WPU

Survivor testimony from 8-9 pm at the Hillel JUC
(located next to Starbucks on Craig St.)
FACULTY, STAFF OR STUDENT ID WILL BE NEEDED FOR THE EVENING EVENT










..
.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012

Opportunities from the American Jewish Historical Society

for undergrads, grad students, and faculty:

Awards and Fellowships

The American Jewish Historical Society encourages interested students and scholars to apply for the following prizes and fellowships.

New!


AJHS Announces a New Award Title: The Henry L. Feingold Graduate Student Essay Prize (formerly the Wasserman Student Essay Award)

The Henry L. Feingold Graduate Student Essay Prize is awarded biennially for the best paper submitted by a graduate-level researcher and includes a $500 award. At the discretion of the editors, the prize essay may also be considered for publication in the Society's scholarly journal, American Jewish History. The submission deadline for the 2010-2012 period is June 1, 2012. Please submit essays to feingoldprize@ajhs.cjh.org


Ruth B. Fein Prize

The American Jewish Historical Society awards the Ruth B. Fein Prize, a travel stipend established in honor of a past president of the Society, to a graduate student to help undertake research at the American Jewish Historical Society. The award is up to $1,000. The deadline for submission is April 27, 2012. To apply, please send a 2-page description of your project, a letter of support from your graduate mentor and a budget for your travel expenses to feinprize@ajhs.cjh.org.


The Sid and Ruth Lapidus Fellowship

The Sid and Ruth Lapidus Fellowship supports one or more researcher(s) wishing to use the collections of the American Jewish Historical Society. Preference is given to researchers interested in 17th and 18th century American Jewish history. At the discretion of the awards committee, the fellowship funds may also be applied to subsidizing publication of a first book in the field of American Jewish history, again with preference given to works in early American Jewish history. The available amount for the award(s) is $6,000 annually. Submission date: April 27, 2012 for awards for 2012. Please send proposals of up to 5 pages to: Professor Stephan F. Brumberg, School of Education, Brooklyn College, CUNY, 2900 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11210; electronic submissions preferred at LapidusFellow@ajhs.org.


Pokross/Curhan Family Fund Prize

The American Jewish Historical Society awards the Pokross/Curhan Family Fund Prize, a grant established in honor of two past presidents, David R. Pokross (1976-1979) and Ronald C. Curhan (1990-1993), to an undergraduate or graduate student pursuing an academic degree at an accredited academic institution to help undertake research using the collections held at AJHS/Boston, the Newton Centre home of the American Jewish Historical Society. The award in 2012 is $1,000. The deadline for submission is April 27, 2012. To apply, please send a 2-page description of your plan to produce an essay, thesis, dissertation, documentary, exhibition or other form of public program on an aspect of the American Jewish experience; and a letter of support from an undergraduate or graduate mentor to pokrosscurhanprize@ajhs.cjh.org.

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Next Religious Studies Department Brown-Bag: Violence in the Bible

The Department of Religious Studies
Brown Bag Lunch Colloquium Series
University of Pittsburgh
Presents
Violence in the Bible
Jerome Creach
Robert C. Holland Professor of Old Testament
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary
April 11, 2012
12:00 Noon
2628 Cathedral of Learning
Coffee and cookies provided
The presentation will address the problem of biblical texts that present God acting destructively and apparently approving the violent behavior of others. Drawing from the rich tradition of interpreting the Bible figuratively, the presentation will suggest that such a reading of many problematic texts is actually closer to the original intent of those texts than the reading often given by modern critical scholars. Among the topics addressed will be the problem of the conquest (Joshua 1-12) and the ban (Deuteronomy 7:1-5) and God's ongoing battle with the Amalekites (Exodus 17:8-16).
Jerome Creach is the author of five books on the Psalms and Prophets. His new work on violence in the Bible will appear in the series Interpretation: Resources for the Use of Scripture in the Church (Westminster John Knox Press, forthcoming 2013).

Message from the Office of Cross Cultural Leadership and Development

Monday, March 26, 2012

Lecture: "Frightening Jews" this Wednesday

Lecture Wednesday March 28: "FRIGHTENING JEWS" by JEREMY DAUBER
(Columbia University)

Is there such a thing as Jewish horror? Looking at examples of what has frightened Jews over three millennia of literary history, we'll venture some conclusions.
WEDNESDAY MARCH 28, 2012
12:00 NOON
602 CATHEDRAL OF LEARNING (HUMANITIES CENTER SEMINAR ROOM)
Jeremy Dauber is the Atran Associate Professor of Yiddish Language, Literature, and Culture, and Director of Columbia's Institute for Israel and Jewish Studies. His first book, Antonio's Devils: Writers of the Jewish Enlightenment and the Birth of Modern Hebrew and Yiddish Literature, was published in 2004 by Stanford University Press; in 2006, he and Joel Berkowitz published an anthology of their translations of landmark Yiddish plays; and in 2010, Yale University Press published his second monograph, In the Demon's Bedroom: Yiddish Literature and the Early Modern. He is the co-editor of Prooftexts: A Journal of Jewish Literature, a leading journal in the field. Dauber's research interests include older Yiddish literature, the literature of the Jewish Enlightenment, and Yiddish theater, and he teaches undergraduate and graduate courses on Yiddish literature, as well as courses on humor in Jewish literature and American Jewish literature. He regularly lectures on topics related to Jewish literature, history, and popular culture at the 92nd Street Y and other venues around the country.

Tomorrow: Rabies at the JFilm Festival

RABIES
Pittsburgh Premiere • Directors: Aharon Keshales and Navot Papushado
2010, Israel, 90 minutes • Hebrew with subtitles
Can you say bloody? The creepy confines of the woods provide the
perfect setting for RABIES, Israel’s first-ever horror film. A sexy, campy,
and clever game of murder, it involves a young couple who happen to be
brother and sister, a deranged cop and his lovesick partner, and a group
of tennis playing friends. An impressive cast of Israel’s leading actors is
drawn into a whirlwind of dark secrets, mix-ups and bloody mayhem.
Followed by "Can You Say 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' in Yiddish?:
Thinking About Jewish Horror," a discussion with scholars Jeremy
Dauber, Columbia University, and Adam Lowenstein, University of
Pittsburgh.
Supported in part by the University of Pittsburgh-Jewish Studies Program.
In collaboration with Pittsburgh Filmmakers.
Tuesday, March 27, 7:30p.m. • SouthSide Works Cinema
Tickets: Online at www.JFilmPgh.org
or call: 412-992-5203, M-F, 1 - 3 p.m.

Friday, March 9, 2012

JEWISH STUDIES AT THE MOVIES

UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH JEWISH STUDIES PROGRAM

invites you to participate in a series of JEWISH-THEMED FILMS, LIVE PERFORMANCES, POST-FILM DISCUSSIONS WITH LOCAL AND VISITING SCHOLARS, LECTURES AND MORE

Turn off the technology? Celebrate a secular (?) Sabbath? See a documentary by an advocate for the “National Day of Unplugging” about her love/hate relationship with technology and participate in a post-film discussion with a scholar of American Judaism and a computer programmer.
JFilm Showing: “Connected” Saturday March 17, 8:10 pm, Southside Works
Film Schmooze with Rachel Kranson (Religious Studies at Pitt) and Jamie Forrest

See a moving film about a complicated Israeli family whose lives are further complicated by the arrival home of their autistic son and participate in a post-film discussion with an autism researcher who is setting up autism research programs in Israel.
JFilm Showing: “Mabul (The Flood)” Sunday March 18, 4 pm, Southside Works
Film Schmooze with Marlene Behrman-Cohen (Psychology at CMU)

Especially for students: See a hit Israeli TV show about 30-something Modern Orthodox singles (an Israeli “Friends”?) and meet the director for lunch.
JFilm Showing: “Srugim” Monday, March 19, 7:30 pm, Southside Works
Meet the Director: Eliezer Shapiro Tuesday, March 20, 12-1:15 pm, Hillel-JUC
For more information, contact Carly Adelmann at Hillel-JUC

See a film about complex relationships across generations and participate in a post-film discussion with a Pittsburgh gerontologist.
JFilm Showing: “Restoration” Sunday March 25, 4 pm, Southside Works
Film Schmooze with Steven Albert (Public Health at Pitt)

Jewish Horror? See the first Israeli horror film, attend a post-film discussion with two scholars, hear a lecture by one of those scholars on the long history of Jewish “horror” literature.
JFilm Showing: “Rabies” Tuesday March 27, 7:30 pm, Southside Works
Discussion, following the film, with Adam Lowenstein (Film Studies at Pitt) and Jeremy Dauber (Columbia)
Lecture by Jeremy Dauber: “Frightening Jews” Wednesday March 28, 12-1:30 pm
Pitt Humanities Center, 602 Cathedral of Learning (free)
Co-sponsored by Jewish Studies, German, Cultural Studies, Medieval and Renaissance Studies, Film Studies, and Religious Studies at Pitt.

See a film about the incredible story of Sofia Cosima, pianist and survivor, and hear the director talk about the documentary and play piano.
JFilm Showing: “A Suitcase Full of Chocolate” Thursday March 28, 7:00 pm
Frick Fine Arts Auditorium
Post-Film Lecture and Concert with Lincoln Mayorga, director and pianist

*film showings and discussions require paid admission: see www.JFilmPgh.org for information and pricing*

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Internship Opportunity at the International Center of Photography, NYC

Internship Opportunity at the International Center of Photography, NYC
Spend a summer interning at the country’s premier photography museum!

We are seeking summer interns to work at the International Center of Photography (ICP) on the Roman Vishniac Archive, a recent and groundbreaking gift to the museum’s permanent collection, and a recipient of a major grant from the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA). Roman Vishniac’s photographs of Central and East European Jewish life, captured from 1935-38, are considered the last photographic documentation of these now vanished Jewish communities. The majority of his work has never been published or seen by the public, and the collection includes tens of thousands of prints, negatives, contact sheets, personal correspondence, audio material, and ephemera. We are building a comprehensive archive of the famed photographer’s entire body of work and are planning a large-scale traveling retrospective, scheduled to open at ICP in 2013.

Intern projects include: Exhibition preparation, print cataloging, creating finding aids for the paper archive, catalogue preparation, assisting with educational curricula, database work, document translation, independent research projects, and more.

We are seeking: Highly motivated graduate or undergraduate students or recent graduates of Art History, History, Jewish Studies, and/or Library Science. Exhibition or archival experience is preferred. We will provide training in photo handling and Jewish visual culture. We are also seeking interns fluent in German and Russian to translate and research important documents dating from the 1930s-1980s.

To apply: Please email a current resume, letter of interest, and contact information (including phone numbers) for three references to Rachel Travis at rtravis@icp.org. Please include both professional and academic references.

Internships are unpaid, but offer other perks. We are happy to work with academic departments to provide school credit for internships. Interns also earn free use of one of NYC’s best darkrooms and digital printing facilities at the ICP School. Interns are eligible for a 50% discount off of ICP courses and workshops at the ICP School and are invited to attend ICP openings and special events. We are currently accepting applications for summer internships and ask for at least a four day a week commitment.

Monday, January 30, 2012

One Week to Go: Halpern Award

Deadline for applications for the Halpern Award: February 13. Scroll down for information.

This is a great opportunity to for undergraduates interested in Jewish Studies.

Friday, January 27, 2012

Feb 2: Horst Lange lecture

LECTURE
Professor Horst Lange
University of Central Arkansas
Thursday, February 2, 5:00-6:00pm
602 Cathedral of Learning (Humanities Center)
On the Complexities of Religious Discourse in the
Eighteenth Century: The Case of Goethe
Reception to follow
Professor Lange, who has advanced degrees from the Universities of Virginia and Tübingen, has published extensively at the intersection of literature with both philosophy and religious studies. His monograph on Kant’s metaphysics of experience reconstructs the transcendental deduction as a version of Wittgenstein’s private language argument. In addition to a series of recent articles on the semiotics of divine intentions in Goethe; Goethe and Spinoza; and sexuality and Christianity in Goethe’s Classicism, Professor Lange is working on two monographs. The first will try to overturn the standard reading of Goethe’s Werther as a document of sentimental literature by analyzing it against the background of a proper understanding of Spinoza’s Ethics. The second, which reconstructs Goethe’s thinking about religion in a heretical way, is the topic of this lecture.
Sponsored by the University of Pittsburgh Humanities Center, the Departments of German and Religious Studies, the Programs in Cultural Studies, West European Studies, and Jewish Studies, and the Group on Eighteenth Century Studies
Questions? Contact the Department of German at 412-624-5909 or grmndept@pitt.edu

Thursday, January 26, 2012

Another Summer Yiddish Program--ths one in Tel Aviv

The Naomi Prawer Kadar International Yiddish Summer Program at = Tel Aviv University
=20
THE NAOMI PRAWER KADAR INTERNATIONAL YIDDISH SUMMER PROGRAM at TEL AVIV = UNIVERSITY will take place from June 25 to July 19, 2012. In previous = years, the summer program hosted between 100 and 120 students from more = than fifteen countries, making it the largest Yiddish summer program in = the world. The program will once again offer intensive Yiddish = instruction at five levels, from beginners to advanced. As students of = TAU International, the Tel Aviv University School for Overseas Students = whose credentials are recognized by universities world-wide, = participants will receive 80 hours of language and literature = instruction (four credits) with highly qualified and experienced = teachers in small classes.

Language instruction will be supplemented by an afternoon program of = lectures, conversation workshops, films, and tours, and by evening = cultural and social events.
Located minutes away from both the center of Tel Aviv and its beaches, = TAU is the largest university in Israel, with significant resources in = Jewish Studies, among them the Diaspora Museum and the Margulies Yiddish = Book Collection. Students can enjoy Tel Aviv's diverse attractions: = museums, cafes, Bauhaus architecture, the beach and the promenade, the = old harbor, summer festivals, and clubs in this Mediterranean city "that = never sleeps."
Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Naomi Foundation, substantial = scholarships are available for full time students.
The costs of the program are:
* $ 1450 tuition
* $ 60 registration fee
* $ 600 for housing (double occupancy).
Please register online at: =
www.international.tau.ac.il
Closing Date for Applications: April 15, 2012.
For additional information, please contact:
North America: Naomi Prawer Kadar International Yiddish Summer = Program/Tel Aviv University/Office of Academic Affairs/39 Broadway, = Suite 1510/ New York, NY 10006/Tel: 1-800-665-9829 naomiyiddish@post.tau.ac.il

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Islamic Studies Undergraduate Research Symposium

Islamic Studies
Undergraduate Research Symposium
Call for Papers
Students will present their research with others from
30 colleges and universities in the tri-state area on topics related to Islamic studies within
the arts, sciences, humanities, social sciences and professional disciplines.
Papers may pertain to people, politics and policy
or religion, culture and society,….in historical or contemporary contexts.
Think outside the box!
Papers are eligible for cash prizes up to $500.00
April 14, 2012 at Washington and Jefferson College, 8:30am – 3:00pm
The symposium will include student competition, breakfast, lunch and
Keynote address
Email your paper along with cover-page (download at www.cerisnet.org) to
Ms. Elaine Linn, Assistant Director, Global Studies Center, University of Pittsburgh, at ceris@pobox.com
Paper submission deadline: March 31, 2012
Visit www.cerisnet.org for judging criteria, cover-page, symposium schedule, and useful links.
Sponsored by the Consortium for Educational Resources on Islamic Studies

New Yiddish Club Forming

have you always wanted to learn Yiddish? are you interested in Yiddish culture? are you a fan of klezmer music? Now is your chance! Come to the upcoming meeting of the Yiddish culture club at the coffee tree roasters in shadyside at 8 p.m. on Wednesday, February 1. RSVP to Sara (sarah@hilleljuc.org) by Monday if possible.

Monday, January 23, 2012

Reminder: Halpern Award

If you have any academic activity planned for summer 2012 or AY 2012-2013 that involves Jewish Studies, you should apply for this scholarship:

University of Pittsburgh, Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences
PROGRAM IN JEWISH STUDIES

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS:

ETHEL M. HALPERN AWARD IN JEWISH STUDIES
for Undergraduate Jewish Studies students at the University of Pittsburgh
funded by the Ethel M. Halpern Endowed Fund for Students.

APPLICATIONS DUE: Monday February 13, 2012, 4 pm.

Undergraduate students are invited to apply for funding for any of the following purposes:
• travel or living expenses associated with a study abroad experience involving Jewish studies;
• travel or living expenses associated with participation in a summer language program in Hebrew, Yiddish, or another language relevant to Jewish studies;
• travel or living expenses associated with participation in an unpaid internship program connected to Jewish studies;
• travel expenses related to other study or research in Jewish studies;
• purchase of books or other materials related to research in Jewish studies.

Awards of up to $1000 each will be made for projects in the Summer of 2012 or during Academic Year 2012-2013.
Halpern Awards may be held in conjunction with other University and external funding in cases where the project costs exceed $1000.

The following application materials must be received in the Jewish Studies office, 2604 Cathedral of Learning, by 4 pm, Monday February 13, 2012: IN HARD COPY

• a statement of purpose explaining the proposed activities and how the activities will further the student’s undergraduate studies;
• a budget of anticipated expenses, including a list of other aid applied for, and a statement of the amount (up to $1000) requested from the Halpern Fund
• an official transcript from Pitt and any previous undergraduate institutions;
• a letter of recommendation from a faculty member familiar with the student’s work

Eligibility:
• Full-time undergraduates in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences.
• Have completed or be currently enrolled in at least one Jewish studies class (including Hebrew language) at the University of Pittsburgh.

For any questions about the award, please contact:
Adam Shear, Director, Jewish Studies, ashear@pitt.edu.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Scholarship available for Hebrew study

If you are planning to take Hebrew 3, 4, 5 next year, and interested in JEwish studies/Israel studies/Global studies, READ THIS NOW:



The application for Foreign Language & Area Studies Fellowship (FLAS) for both graduates and undergraduates is now open. Applications are available for both Academic Year as well as Summer.

About FLAS Fellowships

The Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) Fellowships program provides allocations of academic year and summer fellowships to institutions of higher education or consortia of institutions of higher education to assist meritorious undergraduate students and graduate students undergoing training in modern foreign languages and related area or international studies or with the international aspects of professional or fields of study.

The goals of the fellowship program are:
To assist in the development of knowledge, resources, and trained personnel for modern foreign language and area or international studies.
To foster foreign language acquisition and fluency.
To develop a domestic pool of international experts to meet national needs.

What are the benefits for Pitt Students?
Graduate academic year FLAS Fellows will receive full tuition and a $18,000 stipend
Undergraduate academic year FLAS Fellows will receive full tuition and a $5000 stipend
Summer FLAS fellows will receive $5000 toward tuition and a $2500 Stipend

What are the fellowship requirements?
Academic Year Fellows: The successful applicant must enroll each semester of Fellowship year in a FLAS-approved language and in full-time study in either area studies or professional studies related to the world area where the FLAS language is spoken here at the University of Pittsburgh. Undergraduates must enroll each semester in a language course at the intermediate level or higher.

Summer Fellows: The successful application must enroll in a formal domestic or overseas program of intensive language study during the summer. Students at the beginning (graduate only) and intermediate Levels are expected to attend domestic or overseas programs offering a minimum of 140 contact hours of instruction.

What languages can one study with a Global Studies FLAS Fellowship?
Arabic ( Modern Standard), Chinese, Hebrew (modern), Hindi, Persian, Portuguese, Swahili, Turkish, Urdu

Who is eligible to apply?
Any Pitt student is eligible to receive a fellowship if he or she:
- Is a citizen, national, or permanent resident of the United States
- Is accepted for enrollment or enrolled in a program that combines modern foreign language training with international studies or with the international aspects of professional or other fields of study.
- Shows potential for high academic achievement based on grade point average and class ranking.

Graduate FLAS applications are due to our office on February 15. Each department may nominate up to 4 candidates. Applications must come from the department and not from the individual student.

Summer 2012 applications for both graduate and undergraduate students are due February 15. Students may apply directly to the Global Studies office.

Undergraduate FLAS applications are due on March 1. Students may apply directly to the Global Studies office.

For more details on how to apply check the (FLAS website):http://www.ucis.pitt.edu/global/flas_grad.html or contact me, Veronica Dristas at dristas@pitt.edu

HALPERN AWARD FOR JEWISH STUDIES

PROGRAM IN JEWISH STUDIES

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS:

ETHEL M. HALPERN AWARD IN JEWISH STUDIES
for Undergraduate Jewish Studies students at the University of Pittsburgh
funded by the Ethel M. Halpern Endowed Fund for Students.

APPLICATIONS DUE: Monday February 13, 2012, 4 pm.

Undergraduate students are invited to apply for funding for any of the following purposes:
• travel or living expenses associated with a study abroad experience involving Jewish studies;
• travel or living expenses associated with participation in a summer language program in Hebrew, Yiddish, or another language relevant to Jewish studies;
• travel or living expenses associated with participation in an unpaid internship program connected to Jewish studies;
• travel expenses related to other study or research in Jewish studies;
• purchase of books or other materials related to research in Jewish studies.

Awards of up to $1000 each will be made for projects in the Summer of 2012 or during Academic Year 2012-2013.
Halpern Awards may be held in conjunction with other University and external funding in cases where the project costs exceed $1000.

The following application materials must be received in the Jewish Studies office, 2604 Cathedral of Learning, by 4 pm, Monday February 13, 2012: IN HARD COPY

• a statement of purpose explaining the proposed activities and how the activities will further the student’s undergraduate studies;
• a budget of anticipated expenses, including a list of other aid applied for, and a statement of the amount (up to $1000) requested from the Halpern Fund
• an official transcript from Pitt and any previous undergraduate institutions;
• a letter of recommendation from a faculty member familiar with the student’s work

Eligibility:
• Full-time undergraduates in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences.
• Have completed or be currently enrolled in at least one Jewish studies class (including Hebrew language) at the University of Pittsburgh.

For any questions about the award, please contact:
Adam Shear, Director, Jewish Studies, ashear@pitt.edu.

Nationality Room Scholarships for Summer 2012

2012 Summer Study Abroad Scholarships for Global Studies
The Nationality Rooms Summer Study Abroad Scholarship Program was established to provide University of Pittsburgh graduate and undergraduate students with the opportunity to add an international dimension to their education. The purpose of these awards is to give an in-depth immersion experience of another culture for at least five weeks. The scholarships are the result of the committees’ fund-raising throughout the year. Scholarships are sometimes given in memory of an individual, or by a donor whose belief in the benefits of study abroad remains constant. The scholarships available for 2012 are listed on the web site (www.ucis.pitt.edu/natrooms).

Eligibility
Undergraduates must:
• Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
• Be current full-time University of Pittsburgh students
• Have 60-90 credits by April 2011 (current sophomores or juniors)
• Have a QPA of not less than 3.00
• Have been registered and present on a University of Pittsburgh campus as a full-time student for two (2) terms prior to the study abroad and be returning to a University of Pittsburgh campus as a full-time student for a minimum of two (2) terms immediately after study abroad
• Propose a career-related, credit-worthy study program of at least five (5) weeks

Graduate students must:
• Be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
• Be current full-time University of Pittsburgh students and in good academic standing
• Have been registered and present on a University of Pittsburgh campus as a full-time student for two (2) terms prior to the study abroad and be returning to a University of Pittsburgh campus as full-time students for a minimum of two (2) terms immediately after study abroad
• Propose a career-related, credit-worthy study program of at least five (5) weeks. NOTE: The Nationality Rooms Summer Study Abroad Scholarship Program does not fund intensive language study at the graduate level
Application
The eight-page application form requests general information about the student (name, address, major, etc.) and requires information on the study program or research project, the number of credits earned for this work, two essays, and two references, one of which must be from a University of Pittsburgh faculty member. Applicants must submit a non-returnable photocopy of Pages 1 and 2 of the application at least 24 hours prior to an Information Session presented by the scholarship advisor. (The student retains the original to submit with the Final Application.) Pages one and two may be obtained at the Nationality Rooms Program office in 1209 Cathedral of Learning, or at the scholarship website: www.ucis.pitt.edu/natrooms. The sessions are scheduled from January 4 through January 20, 2012. Students are required to submit two (2) complete sets of their application for each award for which they wish to be considered by the January deadline. A complete application includes:
• Pages one through six
• Attachments (e.g., print-out of essays, independent research outline, study program description)
• For undergraduates only, an unofficial University of Pittsburgh transcript
References – Pages 7 and 8 are delivered to the Nationality Rooms Program office and are photocopied and attached to the complete application. Please stop in at the Nationality Rooms Program office, 1209 Cathedral of Learning, for further information. Email questions can be addressed to Eileen Kiley, Scholarship Advisor (kiley@pitt.edu).

Honors College Summer Research Awards

University Honors College 2012 Summer Research Abroad Awards
The University Honors College (UHC) 2012 Summer Research Abroad Awards are intended to support undergraduate scholarship abroad under the direction of a faculty mentor. Up to ten $5,000 awards, administered by the UHC, are available to provide students with funding to support international travel for a minimum of five weeks to conduct an original research project during the summer. Although travel with the cooperating faculty member is possible, students may conduct their research abroad without the cooperating faculty member’s presence at the research site. Students are not limited to working with University of Pittsburgh faculty members; for example, the research project may be pursued in a faculty member’s lab at an institution outside of the United States.
Deadlines and Eligibility
Applications are due February 1, 2012
Applications will be accepted from any University of Pittsburgh undergraduate who:
• has a 3.25 cumulative GPA
• has submitted a program application to Pitt’s Study Abroad Office or, if the research project is not part of a formal program, is working with the Study Abroad Office regarding the administrative details associated with travel abroad (more information can be found on the Study Abroad website www.abroad.pitt.edu)
• has a faculty sponsor within the project’s discipline who will be responsible for the oversight of the project
Application Requirements
Applications will be judged on the merits of the proposed research project and degree of support from the cooperating faculty mentor. Complete application instructions are available on the Honors College website at:
www.honorscollege.pitt.edu/opportunities/research-abroad-award.html

MA in Jewish Studies, Tel Aviv University: Scholarships Available

From: Emilie Levy [mailto:majes@post.tau.ac.il]
Sent: Mon 1/16/2012 1:35 AM
Subject: RE: scholarships offered by the MA program in Jewish Studies at Tel Aviv University

Scholarships: International MA in Jewish Studies (in English), Tel Aviv University, 2012-2013

The international MA in Jewish Studies at Tel Aviv University (in =
English)
invites applicants for two merit based scholarships of US $5,000 each to qualified international students for the 2012-2013 academic year.
=20
This new one year MA offers a series of intimate encounters with the classical texts of Jewish culture, from biblical to modern times. Its intellectual home is in the department of Hebrew Culture Studies at Tel = Aviv University, the single largest integrated Jewish Studies department in = the
world.=20
Courses are taught by a team of dedicated lecturers, with world-class expertise in their respective fields and committed to teaching = excellence.
Courses are text-centered, with primary texts in Hebrew (with = translations), and secondary reading and teaching in English, and students acquire the skills and tools that constitute the foundation of Jewish text study = Areas covered include Bible, Hebrew language, rabbinic exegesis and Midrash, Talmudic and Christian texts compared, Jewish mysticism, medieval = philosophy and kabbalah, ancient Jewish magic, and modern Jewish thought Tel Aviv's location provides excellent opportunities for on-site study.
Students can, e.g., enhance their understanding of 1st CE texts through = a series of guided excursions to archeological digs and other key = locations in the Galilee, the Judean Desert and Jerusalem.=20 Candidates must complete the program application, by March 15th.=20 Scholarships will be awarded by an academic committee.
To find out more about the program, and to apply for scholarships, = please visit our website:
http://humanities.tau.ac.il/jewish_studies/ or contact Emilie Levy:
majes@post.tau.ac.il

Friday, January 6, 2012

Considering Graduate School?

consider this scholarship opportunity:

http://foundationcenter.org/grantmaker/beinecke/index.html

For more information, contact

Judy Zang
Director of National Scholarships
University Honors College
1229 Cathedral of Learning
412-624-3697 • jaz36@pitt.edu

Pitt can nominate one junior for this fellowship. Deadline is February 24.

Open Jewish Studies Courses

Space Available in

JS 0014 Hebrew 2 M-F 10-10:50 (5 credits) (requires Hebrew 1 or the equivalent)

JS 0026 Hebrew 4 MWF 11-11:50 (requires Hebrew 3 or the equivalent)

JS 1065 Biblical Hebrew TH 11-12:15 (no prerequisite)

JS 1222 Jewish Mysticism MW 3-4:15 (no prerequisite)

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Mark your calendars: Spring events

MORE DETAILS (AND MORE EVENTS) TO COME:

Thursday, February 2, 2012, 5 pm, 602 CL: We will co-sponsor a lecture by Horst Lange (University of Central Arkansas), "On the Complexities of Religious Discourse in the Eighteenth Century: The Case of Goethe.” (German, Humanities Center, Religious Studies)

March-April 2012: During JFilm’s Jewish/Israeli Film Festival, we will once again sponsor the “Film Schmooze” post-screening film discussions with members of our faculty and other scholars. Our sponsorship of JFilm is through our Giant Eagle Foundation Endowment for Community Outreach.

Thursday, March 29, 2012, 7 pm, Frick Fine Arts Auditorium: We will co-sponsor a screening and discussion of the documentary film, “A Suitcase Full of Chocolate: The life of the pianist Sofia Cosma, (1914-2011)” with the film’s producer Lincoln Mayorga and Professor Beverly Harris-Schenz (German).

Thursday, April 11, 2012: Fradle Freidenreich, whose book, Passionate Pioneers: The Story of Yiddish Secular Education in North America, 1910-19, was published last year, will speak at Rodef Shalom Congregation. We will co-sponsor this talk with the Rauh Jewish Archives, Rodef Shalom, and Congregation Dor Hadash, through our Giant Eagle Foundation Endowment for Community Outreach.
Monday, April 23, 2012: Conference: “The Holocaust and the Middle Ages: Medieval Anti-Judaism in the Crucible of Modern Thought,” organized by Hannah Johnson (English) and Nina Caputo (University of Florida). Details TBA.

Work-Study Job Opportunity

Torah Study Positions
For Work Study Students or Volunteers

The Aleph Institute is a not-for-profit Jewish educational, religious and humanitarian organization serving incarcerated Jewish men and women and their families. Our guiding principle is “no one alone, no one forgotten." Among our many programs is our Torah Study Correspondence Course. We have about 300 students in state and federal prisons and county jails across the United States.
We need Faculty and Administrative staff who will:

• Administer our correspondence course
• Maintain and update student records electronically
• Answer correspondence from students and prison chaplains
• Grade exams, add encouraging notes and suggestions
• Research and answer questions from students by mail
• Interact with prison chaplains by telephone & email to resolve problems
• Help with many details of running a correspondence course

Interested candidates should possess excellent interpersonal and writing skills and the desire to help less fortunate people grow. We serve a very diverse students population of Jews from many countries and cultures around the world. Staff members must be proficient in Word and have a working knowledge of Excel and Publisher or be willing to learn. We need people with knowledge of social media and web communications. Although prison inmates have only limited access to email and the web we try to use electronic data technology to speed our service and reduce our costs.

Interested students should contact Richard Goldstein rgoldstein@alephne.org or 412-421-0111 x115