First Pittsburgh Cohort Receives MAJPS Degrees

The first Pittsburgh cohort of local communal professionals has completed a rigorous Master of Arts in Jewish Professional Studies (MAJPS) program designed to develop their Jewish knowledge and prepares them to lead Jewish organizations. The two-year program – offered through the Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership – provides a platform of classical and contemporary Jewish thought combined with much-needed professional training based in the best practices of nonprofit management. Presented in a cohort model, the program creates a dynamic environment for professionals to learn from one another along with a mentoring component that pairs students with leaders in their field. Piloted in Spertus Institute’s hometown of Chicago, the program serves communities in several North American cities.

The degrees were awarded at a graduation ceremony held Monday at Pittsburgh’s Congregation Rodef Shalom. Honorary doctoral degrees were also awarded to John S. Ruskay and David S. Shapira.

Funding for the Pittsburgh MAJPS program is provided by Spertus Institute, the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh, the Agency for Jewish Learning, the Fine Family Foundation, Hillel JCC of Pittsburgh, the Jewish Community Center of Greater Pittsburgh and the Pittsburgh Area Jewish Committee.