Celebrating Spertus Graduation

This year’s graduation was unlike any in our 97-year history

Because of COVID-19, the ceremony was virtual, but although the format differed, the pride was just as warm as we marked our graduates’ transformation from students to ambassadors, taking their newly acquired knowledge and skills to their own organizations and communities.

Because of the virtual format, we were able to welcome graduates’ family members, friends, and colleagues from their homes around the world.

We awarded degrees to students from all Spertus Institute degree programs:

Doctor of Hebrew Letters

Doctor of Science in Jewish Studies Master of Arts in Jewish Studies Master of Arts in Jewish Professional Studies

Local, Regional, and Executive cohorts

Graduation Address and Honorary Degrees

The graduation address was delivered by Israeli scholar, author, and activist Dr. Ruth Calderon, a former member of the Israeli Knesset and founder of Elul Beit Midrash in Jerusalem and Alma–Home for Hebrew Culture in Tel Aviv. She was awarded an honorary Doctor of Hebrew Letters.

An honorary Doctor of Hebrew Letters was also awarded to Gene Hoffman, lifelong learner and committed supporter of Jewish education.

Student Speakers

This year’s student speakers were Jessica Mehlman and Rabbi Moshe Meirovich.

Mehlman, a graduate of our Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies, is the Associate Vice President for Impact and Planning at the Jewish Federations of North America. Rabbi Meirovich, who received his Doctor of Hebrew Letters, serves Congregation B’nai Israel in St. Catharines, Ontario. It was wonderful to have his congregants join us to watch the ceremony!