Gil Graff
Gil Graff is Executive Director of BJE in Los Angeles. He is the author of two books and numerous articles on Jewish history and education. Gil, whose academic background includes graduate degrees in education, history and Jewish studies, earned a JD and PhD at UCLA. In addition to his experience as a teacher, school administrator, camp director, and BJE executive, he has served as an adjunct faculty member at AJU, HUC, Spertus College, Touro College and AJR, CA. Gil and his wife, Robin -- herself a Jewish educator -- are the parents of three children, Ari, Ilan, and Talia.
Jewish Education, US Style
Global History and Culture,
Identity and Responsibility
American Jews have long been preoccupied with providing educational skills and experiences to their youth, enabling them to engage in Jewish living. Such institutions as Jewish day schools, Talmud Torahs, congregational supplementary schools, early childhood education centers, residential summer camps, youth groups and more, represent expressions of abiding interest in ensuring a meaningful Jewish future for successive generations. This session will examine major currents in Jewish education in America and consider emerging trends in the ever-expanding array of opportunities and frameworks for Jewish education in the United States.
Responding to Modernity
Global History and Culture,
Identity and Responsibility
The transformation of Jewish life in the 19th century as an outgrowth of emancipation included a wide range of religious, cultural and political responses. American Jews and Judaism are legatees of these multi-faceted responses to modernity. This session will examine trends in 19th century European Jewish life and explore expressions of similar currents that emerged within American Judaism by the latter part of the 19th century.
