Jewish University For A Day: What You Don't Know About Judaism

There’s something you don’t know about Judaism.
“But wait!” you protest. “I was a Jewish Studies minor in college… I lived and breathed Judaism for four years.”
Impressive. Really, it is! But in those classes did you learn about how Bob Dylan’s “I Feel a Change Comin’ On” explored his relationship to Judaism?
Didn’t think so.
“I spent a year in Israel,” you might say. “And now I am completely in touch with my Judaism.”
I don’t doubt that. But was there a moment left during your exploration of the rich history and culture of our homeland to delve into the emergence of Hebrew literature from women, or the history of Jewish childhood rituals?
Trust us: there’s something you don’t know about Judaism and you have the chance to discover it at Jewish University for a Day!
Jewish University for a Day is coming up June 9, from 11 am to 4 pm, and is only the second event of its kind in the country. And the best part? It’s free for anyone 36 and under.
Did you hear that? FREE.
A highlight of Jewish University for a Day promises to be keynote speaker Benjamin Gampel, a professor of history at the Jewish Theological Seminary described as an “energetic and compelling” teacher. I spoke with Dr. Gampel on the phone, and if he is as entertaining to learn from as he is to speak with on the phone, then his plenary session “The Brilliant Career of Maimonides” is not to be missed. (Stay tuned for more from Dr. Gampel next week on TC Jewfolk!)
Following Dr. Gampel’s plenary session, participants can choose two breakout sessions from a selection of eighteen thought-provoking classes taught by Jewish scholars — some of whom teach at local colleges but many of whom will fly in for the day from Hebrew Union College and the Jewish Theological Seminary — making this event a rare opportunity to learn from nationally renowned professors who enrich the landscape of contemporary Judaism. With sessions ranging from “The Mysteries of the Dead Sea Scrolls” and “Liberalism and the Jewish Question”, to “Laughing Hitler Away: Comedies about Nazism”, something is sure to pique your interest.
Spearheaded by the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York and the Center for Jewish Studies at the University of Minnesota, Jewish University for a Day is sponsored by the Minnesota Context Partnership, which allows for collaboration of Reform, Conservative and Modern Orthodox synagogues in the Twin Cities as well as both the St. Paul and the Sabes JCC, to encourage Jewish adult education. The day of learning is generously funded by the Jewish Federation of Greater St. Paul and the Minneapolis Jewish Federation.
So, if you don’t want to miss out on the opportunity to discuss the influence of Jewish music on the Broadway Musical, or the art of Jewish biblical interpretation, sign up today!
Go to: jtsa.edu/JewishUniversityTwinCities to ensure your place at the breakout sessions of your choice! Registration is free for those 35 and under, $36 for general admission, and $25 for seniors 62 and older.