GREETINGS FROM THE CHAIR

Welcome to the Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center Summer Institute. For almost 30 years, the Summer Institute has been a center of intellectual life on the island; a forum for informed discussion and debate. Each summer, for six consecutive weeks, we invite thought leaders from a variety of fields to speak and engage in spirited question and answer sessions over two days. In addition, the Summer Institute hosts a Jewish Film Series.

This has been a very difficult year. Israel is at war. There is growing antisemitism around the world. The fight to lessen climate change has been difficult. We are concerned about a future controlled by artificial intelligence. Our nation seems paralyzed in dealing with the unresolved problems we face. These are the issues that our speakers will address this summer. 

The talks will be held indoors in the Hebrew Center, beginning Thursday evening, July 11. They will be streamed for those sponsors and Hebrew Center members who are unable to attend in person. I am very pleased to announce that the Jewish Film Series will be screened live in the Hebrew Center on three Sunday evenings as it was for many years prior to the pandemic. Another step toward normalcy!

The Summer Institute is supported by the generosity of over 125 sponsors. Please join us this summer beginning Thursday evening, July 11. Consider becoming a sponsor. There are many benefits. Join our vibrant, collegial community. I look forward to seeing you.

Sincerely,
Keith Heller, Chair