Spertus Institute is now accepting applications for its Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies through June 9, 2021.

As we emerge from more than a year of crisis, Spertus Institute is seeing increased demand for its programs. Particularly germane to current needs is the prestigious Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies program, an accelerated leadership program for Jewish communal executives with 12 or more years in the field. The application period is underway for the next cohort, beginning this coming October.

About the program 

Participants in this 18-month, part-time program learn with fellow executives from across North America, taught by some of the leading names in the field. With a unique blend of high-impact Jewish learning and cutting-edge professional skills, participants gain knowledge, skills, and tools to lead through current and emerging challenges, while earning a graduate degree from a leading institution accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The program includes personalized leadership assessments and professional coaching.

Limited-time opportunity

Challenges abound for the leaders of today’s Jewish organizations. To help, fellowships are available to cover up to 60% of costs for qualified applicants on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing participants to build their leadership capacity right now, when new skills matter more than ever. Application fees are waived until June 9, 2021.

About participants

At a graduation ceremony this past Sunday, executives from the most recent cohort celebrated completion of the program. They represent the accomplished community leaders who learn together in this program and it is our pleasure to recognize them here.

Todd Brecher is the founder of Affinity Advisors and Deputy General Counsel at Altitude Learning. He holds a JD from University of California, Berkeley and a BA from Yale University.

Alyse Eisenberg, Early Childhood Specialist at the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas, has worked in Jewish educator for 30 years and is President of the National Jewish Early Childhood Network. She holds a BS from the University of Maryland.

Tara Feiner is Director of JFS, Jewish Dayton. She holds an MS and BS from the University of Pennsylvania.

Dr. Sarah Kranz-Ciment is Project Director of the Ruderman-Chabad Inclusion Initiative. She holds a Doctorate and BS in Physical Therapy from Touro College in New York.

Layah Kranz Lipsker is an educator and Director of the Boston Agunah Taskforce. She holds a degrees in Jewish Education from Teachers Seminary in Israel and Beth Rivkah in New York.

Jessica Mehlman is Associate Vice President, Impact and Planning, Jewish Federations of North America. She holds a joint MA/MSW from Columbia University and JTS.

Michael Rawl is CEO of the JCC of Greater Buffalo. He holds a BA from The Ohio State University. 

Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership offers dynamic learning opportunities rooted in Jewish wisdom and culture and open to all. Graduate programs and workshops train future leaders and engage individuals in exploration of Jewish life. Public programs—including films, exhibitions, speakers, seminars, workshops, and concerts—take place online, and when safe to do so, at the Institute's Michigan Avenue facility and in the Chicago suburbs