In 2012, theSondra and Howard Bender Visiting Scholars Endowed Fundwas established to help bring leading scholars in Jewish culture, history, language and religion to ֱ campuses to further the curricular goals of ֱ’s Program in Jewish Studies. Attending lectures by leading scholars in this growing field provides students with the opportunity to learn from a broad range of academics. In addition, visiting lecturers create a unique opportunity for the Program in Jewish Studies and ֱ to engage both students and the local community. Public lectures catalyze discussions that include participants from a wide variety of backgrounds, enhancing students’ ability to think about issues beyond the walls of the classroom.