By Michelle Hines, University Relations
Contact: (336) 334-5371
Posted 4-21-09
GREENSBORO, N.C. –The Jewish Studies Program endowment has surpassed its original goal of $500,000.
The endowment – which now stands at $502,158 – is comprised of monies from three separate sources: the Henry Samuel Levinson Program Endowment in Jewish Studies, the Barbara Colchamiro Jewish Studies Program Endowment and the Judith Rosenstock Hyman Jewish Studies Program Endowment. The Jewish Studies Program at UNCG is also supported by the Herman and Zelda Bernard Distinguished Professorship in Jewish Studies.
The announcement comes on the heels of HENRYFEST, a weekend-long celebration of Dr. Henry S. Levinson held in March. Levinson has taught religious studies at UNCG since 1982. Fundraising was completed during the festival as well-wishers honored the retiring professor.
“During HENRYFEST, we celebrated Dr. Levinson for being a great scholar, an inspiring teacher and a terrific mentor and friend,” said Dr. Derek Krueger, head of the Department of Religious Studies. “Former students and colleagues from around the country delivered lectures engaging Levinson's scholarly contributions. Family, friends and co-workers gave personal tributes.
“The Greensboro community, along with family, friends, and colleagues demonstrated their love and respect for Dr. Levinson by raising more than $235,000 during the past six months to complete the Henry Samuel Levinson Program Endowment in Jewish Studies. This fund will enable us to realize Henry’s vision for Jewish Studies at UNCG, including a biennial conference on the history, life and experience of the Jewish people. Our students, faculty and the Greensboro community will all benefit. So many people just love Henry.”
Levinson, who holds a doctorate from Princeton, has published three books and numerous articles. He headed the Department of Religious Studies from 1990-1999, and was also associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences.
The fund has already made possible lectures by renowned scholars over the last decade as part of the Henry Samuel Levinson Jewish Studies Lecture Series. To donate to the Jewish Studies Program endowment, contact Judy Piper at (336) 334-4703 or jrpiper@uncg.edu.
