Fall 2026 Signature Jewish Studies Course

Our Fall Signature Jewish Studies Course, “Being Human,” is inspired by the Shalom Hartman Institute summer curriculum. Through Jewish wisdom, contemporary thought, and rich discussion, participants will explore some of life's most enduring questions: What does it mean to be human? How do we navigate our responsibilities to one another? What values should guide our lives and our communities? This course reflects the very best of Jewish learning — thoughtful, relevant, challenging, and deeply connected to the world we inhabit today.

Designed as one of our popular concierge courses, Being Human will be offered on six Wednesday afternoons from late September through Mid-November at the Queens Sports Complex on Tyvola with participants welcome to attend in person, join via Zoom, or watch recordings later. The flexibility allows learners throughout the region – and beyond – to participate in this rich educational experience.

Session I – Wednesday, September 30, 2026 Being Human and the Experience of Frailty Based on lecture by Yehudah Kurtzer

Session II – Wednesday, October 7, 2026 To Be Human: Anger and Compassion Based on lecture by Masua Sagiv

October 14, 2026 - No Class Fall Break

Session III - October 21, 2026 Humanness: From Mensch to Warrior Based on lecture by Donniel Hartman

Session IV - October 28, 2026 Being Human in a Time of Dehumanization Based on lecture by Elana Stein Haim

Session V - November 4, 2026 The Human and Beyond: Humans and Angels Based on a lecture by Melila Hellner-Eshed

Session VI - November 11, 2026 The Empowered Jew: Agency in the Time of Anxiety based on Based on lecture by Tal Becker

Cost for this course is $245.

Proceeds support The Collaborative (Queens Jewish Studies and Jewish Life and Elon Jewish Life). Space is limited. We do not want cost to be a barrier. For more information, to register, or for financial assistance, contact Stephanie DiPaolo, Stephaniedipaolo0465@gmail.com