HUC-JIR Faculty Members Toasted By Association of Reform Jewish Educators (ARJE)

Two members of the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion School of Education faculty, Rabbi Laura Novak Winer ’95, Ed.D., MAJE ’94 and Joy Wasserman, MAJE ’81 were awarded the 2024 Distinguished Educator Award by the Association of Reform Jewish Educators (ARJE) at their recent conference in Memphis. The award, given annually, honors trailblazing educators who exemplify the values of the ARJE and make significant contributions to Reform Jewish education. Learn more about their incredible contributions to the College-Institute and to Jewish Education here.

Provost Rabbi Andrea Weiss, Ph.D. joined our School of Education leadership, alumni, and the Reform Jewish Educator community at the Annual Gathering of the ARJE and the ECE-RJ, presenting at the ARJE board meeting, teaching, and sharing reflections on Israel and Rabbi David Ellenson, z”l. Provost Weiss presented to the ARJE Board on trends in higher education and their implications for our programs at HUC-JIR and led a study session, “Wake Up and Choose Hope,” which involved a text study of select psalms and reflections by Rabbi Yael Katz Ben Yitzhak on her work as a rabbi in Israel since October 7th. Rabbi Katz Ben Yitzhak is the head of community and educational activities in the Israel Reform Movement and was ordained in Israel by HUC-JIR in November. Welcoming guests to the HUC-JIR reception, Provost Weiss shared in the incredible spirit and connection of our movement’s professional associations.