Agents of Change: American Jews & The Transformation of Israeli Judaism

Join us for a lively conversation with Professor Adam S. Ferziger of the Ruth & Samuel David Koschitzky Department of Jewish History and Contemporary Jewry at Bar-Ilan University, as he discusses his new book, Agents of Change: American Jews and the Transformation of Israeli Judaism, Co-Winner of the 2026 Shapiro Award for Best Book in Israel Studies, given by the Association for Israel Studies. In this groundbreaking study, Ferziger explores the dynamic and often surprising ways American Jewish ideas, leaders, and institutions have shaped religious life in Israel.

Ferziger will be joined in conversation by Professor Lauren Strauss of American University’s Jewish Studies program, offering additional insight into the evolving relationship between American and Israeli Jewish communities.

The discussion will be followed by an audience Q&A.

This event is co-sponsored by the Meltzer Schwartzberg Center for Israel Studies and the Jewish Studies Program.

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