Giving to Support the Jewish Studies Program

The Jewish Studies Program at Kalamazoo College was launched in 2005 with generous support from Helen B. Etkin ’76. Under the leadership of Dr. Jeffrey Haus, it seeks to advance the knowledge of the rich history, religion, and culture of the Jewish people. Exploring Jewish history, religion and culture through interdisciplinary offerings enables both Jewish and non-Jewish students to deepen their understanding of basic human questions. In this manner, the Jewish Studies program encourages students to become thoughtful scholars and morally aware human beings.

Pictured L-R : Jennie Smith (’08), Dr. Jeffrey Haus, Rabbi Michael Ungar '85, K’tanaw Schiff (’10). Rabbi Ungar spoke at the college about the Jews of Cuba.

Through its academic curriculum and sponsorship of Jewish cultural programming, the program cultivates awareness of the interest in Jewish Studies among all members of the Kalamazoo College campus and serves as a valuable learning resource for the greater Kalamazoo community. Equally important, a strong Jewish Studies program provides a source of academic support for the College’s Jewish Student Organization. The program's pursuit of these goals contributes to the fullness of Jewish life on campus and to the pluralistic flavor of a Kalamazoo College education.

Why Jewish Studies.

"I wanted to help provide an environment that supports Jewish students learning about themselves and the world and, at the same time, promotes the world learning about Judaism."
– Helen B. Etkin '76

"Thank you for the Jewish Studies Program. This program has made the biggest difference in my life at Kalamazoo. It has happened not only in academic classes, a benefit that non-Jewish students also enjoy, but also the role that Dr. Haus (director of Jewish Studies) has played in the Jewish Student Organization. I now feel fully supported and more comfortable at Kalamazoo College."
- excerpt from a letter written by a senior in the class of '08.

For more information about the Jewish Studies Program at Kalamazoo College, please contact the department.