Welcome The Jewish Studies Program at the University of Georgia welcomes individuals of all backgrounds to explore the rich and enduring history of the Jewish people. Building on considerable scholarly, educational, and public service achievements, our mission is to continue cultivating a diverse academic community that promotes the understanding and appreciation of Jewish heritage, history, and thought in all its many forms. We aspire to create an inclusive and vibrant environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and intercultural dialogue, while integrating Jewish Studies with many other fields of inquiry to strengthen multidisciplinary inquiry and collaboration. The program reflects the university’s motto “to teach, to serve, and to inquire into the nature of things”, as well as the primary vision of the Franklin College, namely, “realizing the power of the liberal arts and sciences to shape global leadership and the greater good in a sustainable future”. Guiding Principles Inclusivity: We welcome students and scholars of all backgrounds, faiths, and cultural perspectives. The program nurtures an inclusive atmosphere of respect, tolerance, and diversity, in which individuals of different backgrounds can learn together, as well as from one another. Excellence in Scholarship: We are committed to the highest standards of academic inquiry, providing the tools and resources to delve into the study of Jewish history, literature, arts, religion, languages, and ideas. Our curriculum is built in partnership with academic programs across the university, including, Anthropology, Business, Classics, Comparative Literature, Environmental Studies, Geography, German and Slavic Studies, History, International Affairs, Linguistics, Philosophy, Political Science, Religion, and Sociology, among others. Promotion and Preservation of Jewish Cultural Heritage: Though our courses and extra-curricular programming, we aim to advance the cultural history of the Jewish people, by exploring the full breadth of Jewish experience, from its beginnings in the biblical era to modern Jewish life in the US, Israel, and around the world. Community Engagement: The Jewish Studies Program at UGA also serves a wider community, both on and off campus. We seek to educate and inform as many individuals as possible, promoting awareness and tolerance of Jewish history and traditions. Through education, we can provide the facts and tools needed to combat antisemitism and other forms of ignorance.
