In 2012, theSondra and Howard Bender Visiting Scholars Endowed Fundwas established to help bring leading scholars in Jewish culture, history, language and religion to campuses to further the curricular goals of ’s Program in Jewish Studies. Attending lectures by leading scholars in this growing field provides students with the opportunity to learn from a broad range of academics. In addition, visiting lecturers create a unique opportunity for the Program in Jewish Studies and to engage both students and the local community. Public lectures catalyze discussions that include participants from a wide variety of backgrounds, enhancing students’ ability to think about issues beyond the walls of the classroom.