Grob Memorial Lecture: "A New Era of Cultural Vitality for American Jews?"

A New Era of Cultural Vitality for American Jews?

Many scholars and cultural commentators claim that American Jews are in a new era of vibrant Jewish life and are moving from indifference to participation and commitment to Jewishness in surprising numbers. The Hamas killings of innocent civilians in Israel on October 7, 2023, and ever-increasing antisemitism in the United States, appear to account for these unexpected developments. What does a vibrant Jewish life mean for Gen Z and other generations in 2025? Who will shape this new era? What are its visions? Who participates and who is left out? Are we at the start of a new era or in a temporary reaction to a traumatic moment?

Riv-Ellen Prell (Professor Emerita of American Studies, University of Minnesota)

Riv-Ellen Prell is a scholar of American Jewish life, focusing on gender, religious practices, and antisemitism. She is the author of several influential books, including Prayer and Community (National Jewish Book Award winner) and Fighting to Become Americans.

Event Details

The event will take place on Thursday, February 27 at 5:30 p.m. on the third floor of Newcomb Hall in the Commonwealth Room. A reception will immediately follow the event. Paid parking is available right outside Newcomb Hall in the Central Grounds Garage.

The Grob Memorial Lecture

The children of Paul and Dorothy Grob, inspired by their parents’ dedication, endowed the Paul and Dorothy Grob Memorial Lecture Series at the University of Virginia in their memory. Every spring, the Jewish Studies Program invites an eminent scholar to Charlottesville to deliver a community-wide presentation on important issues relating to Jewish-American life. This year's lecture will be the eleventh annual iteration of the series.

For more information on this event and the UVA Jewish Studies Program, visit our website.

Host or Publisher UVA Jewish Studies Program