Programs & Events
At Spertus Institute, we believe that there are many ways to understand and experience Jewish life, religion, traditions, texts, history, and culture. Likewise, there are many ways to learn.
At our core are Degrees & Certificates that provide students the opportunity to connect with Jewish ideas in the service of their personal growth and professional advancement. Along with them, we proudly present programs in an array of formats for participants in Chicago and around the world. These programs are open to all.
Tuesday, January 20 – In his new book, “Judaism, History and the Environment: Climate Change and Natural Disasters,” Spertus President & CEO and Professor of Jewish History Dr. Dean Bell explores historical examples of Jewish experiences with and responses to natural disaster. In this Launch & Learn session, Dr. Bell provides a brief overview of his findings and then directs them to uncover new ways to address a broad array of contemporary leadership challenges.
Thursday, January 29 – Learn more about Spertus Institute’s acclaimed part-time MA in Jewish Professional Studies and accelerated Executive MA in Jewish Professional Studies and how YOU can join the next cohort at our Winter Virtual Open House!
On Demand & Opportunities to Learn More
Find video, audio, and resources relating to past Spertus Institute programs and events.
Thursday, December 18 – In this Connect and Learn, we explored basic concepts of data literacy and data neutrality and practice being open to what data can do to enhance our work.
Thursday, November 6 – Spertus faculty member Dr. Daniella Farah leads this session. We will explore the themes of upward mobility, interreligious encounters, and assimilation through the lens of Jewish education in modern Iran.
Tuesday, September 16 – Spertus faculty member Stefan Teodosic leads this session. We will explore the trust equation and see how credibility, reliability, connection and self-orientation can be leveraged to build incredibly strong professional bonds and unlock untapped potential in your work relationships.
Critical Conversations is an annual Spertus Institute program that brings together experts and activists to address the most critical issues of the day. In 2025, our presenters addressed economic vulnerability in the Jewish community.
Featured Past Program Video
In a recent online professional development workshop, Spertus faculty member Mordy Walfish explored the issue of employee engagement.
Artificial Intelligence offers promise and risks. To help us understand the issue, we had a panel of leaders in the field share their expertise.
Featured Past Program Video
Ken Krimstein shares the stories behind “When I Grow Up: The Lost Autobiographies of Six Yiddish Teenagers.”
Featured Past Program Video
Rising antisemitism targets the very fabric of our communities. To help us understand the issue, we gathered four experts to share their insights.
Featured Past Program Video