Beginning in 2019, the Certificate in Jewish Leadership for Educators will provide senior-level educators the knowledge and skills necessary for them to serve in leadership capacities. The curriculum will prepare participants to meet educational challenges facing Jewish communities in the 21st century and to embrace growth opportunities in their careers and organizations.

The Certificate program is presented by Spertus Institute for Jewish Learning and Leadership in partnership with Northwestern University. Courses and workshops, taught by leading faculty from both institutions, will take place during two onsite seminars in Chicago, January 20-23 and March 24-27, 2019. Due to support from the Jim Joseph Foundation, the cost of the entire program – including travel and hotel accommodations – is $1,000.

The program fuses a behavioral-based leadership approach with Jewish texts and context to create a unique, integrated approach to Jewish leadership. Participants proceed through the curriculum as a cohort, leveraging opportunities for peer learning and developing a network of fellow educators.

In addition to the two seminars, program components include individual leadership assessments, professional mentoring, and an applied capstone project. Participants learn to strengthen their own leadership styles, manage change, and inspire excellence. They learn to communicate and collaborate within and across organizations, even in difficult circumstances and trying times.

This is a selective enrollment program that requires applicants to have five or more years of professional experience; a bachelor’s degree (with an advanced degree preferred); responsibility over educational programming including curricular oversight and management of staff or interns; experience with lay leaders or other outside representatives; and a strong commitment to developing and fulfilling their professional potential. The deadline for preferred admission is November 30, 2018.

Dr. Keren E. Fraiman, Spertus Institute’s Dean and Chief Academic Officer, cited the need for this new program: “Educators are uniquely positioned to fill leadership roles that advance Jewish engagement now and for the future. Their organizational experiences, relationships with students and constituents, and abilities to both plan and improvise provide them with critical, far-reaching perspective. However, their training often falls short in providing the skills needed to transfer their educational expertise to the broad impact that can be made through leadership.”

She continued, “Jewish education increasingly happens outside of the traditional classroom. This certificate will greatly benefit educators across that spectrum. I encourage educators from both informal and formal settings to apply.”

Spertus Institute is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. This program falls under the auspices of Spertus Institute’s Center for Jewish Leadership, working to transform Jewish life by cultivating innovative approaches to leadership and enhancing the abilities of Jewish professionals, educators, and lay leaders.

Those interested in learning more should contact Spertus Director of Enrollment Management Anita Silvert at asilvert@spertus.edu or 312.322.1707, or visit spertus.edu/certificate.