Celebrate HBI's 25th Anniversary!
By Dr. Lisa Fishbayn Joffe
Twenty-five years ago, in a small office at Brandeis, the Hadassah-Brandeis Institute opened its doors to a single scholar, published one book, and gave out 20 HBI Research Awards.
Today, we have more than 62 books in print, publish Nashim, a leading journal and have hosted hundreds of scholars, interns, artists, and authors, and funded research all over the world. Most importantly, we are a crucial collaborator in the field of Jewish women's and gender studies, making important contributions that have supported generations of innovative scholarship by and about Jewish women. Our work also finds its way into popular culture through best-selling books, major museum exhibitions and an upcoming major motion picture.
Former HBI interns and research assistants are now Jewish studies experts, Jewish clergy and Jewish communal leaders, helping to forge a more inclusive Judaism. HBI scholars and artists create new interpretations of identity and belonging from the perspectives of women, LGBTQ and non-binary people, inspiring individuals from all backgrounds to find their own authentic place in Jewish history and peoplehood.
For 25 days, we will reflect on the past, detailing some of HBI’s major contributions and accomplishments, focusing each day on one aspect of our program. Our goal is to celebrate all we have accomplished as we set the stage for our future.
Dr. Lisa Fishbayn Joffe is the Shulamit Reinharz Director of HBI.