32nd Annual University Day
Wednesday, May 21 • 9:00 am - 2:45 pm
Park Synagogue, 27500 Shaker Blvd., Pepper Pike
University Day is open to the entire congregation and community.
Participants of all ages are encouraged to attend this informative day!
9:00-9:25 am •Everyone
Check-in and enjoy coffee/tea and a light breakfast in the Davis Community Hall.
9:30 - 9:45 am •Everyone
Opening Remarks with Rabbi Sharon Marcus
11:00-11:55 am •Session 1
Workshop A: “Israel’s Future: Jewish & Democratic, or Messianic & Ultra-Nationalistic?”
Doron Kalir, Senior Clinical Prof. of Law, CSU College of Law
Over 30 years ago, in its quasi-constitutional Basic Law: Human Dignity and Liberty, Israel announced itself to be a “Jewish and Democratic State.” In recent years, however, some ultra-nationalistic, Messianic political parties have gained much power, currently occupying key cabinet positions. What is in Israel’s future?
Workshop B: “What Makes Jewish Art Jewish?”
Linda Sandhaus, MD, Cleveland Museum of Art Docent
The existence of Jewish art as a distinctive type of art has been discussed and even denied by Jewish artists and art scholars for more than a century. What are the features that define Jewish art? Together, we will use selected artworks to explore this multi-layered question and reflect upon its relevance today.
Workshop C: “Cybersecurity---How to Stay Safe Online & Avoid Scams & Other Trouble””
Sanford Weinberg, Cybersecurity Expert
Phony pop-ups, tricky scams, and mysterious charges—oh my! The internet can feel like a minefield, but don’t worry, we have your back. In this fun and informative session, you’ll learn how to dodge digital disasters, protect yourself online, and maybe even impress your grandkids with your tech savviness!
12:00-12:45 pm •Lunch Break
Enjoy a delicious box lunch and time to relax and chat with other participants.
2:00-2:45 pm •Musical Interlude •Everyone
"Melodies of May: A Medley of Musical Theater & Opera"
Catherina Carrington & Colin DeMatteo--vocalists, and Jackson Naglick---pianist, CIM Students
End the day with a delightful performance by talented CIM students in a selection of musical theatre and light opera, spanning the 19th and 20th centuries, with solos and duets by composers such as Cole Porter, George Gershwin, and Johann Strauss II.
9:45 am - 10:45 am •Everyone
Ida & Herman Weinberg Fund Lecture:
“The State of Cuyahoga County—Present Challenges and Future Visions”
Featuring Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Executive
Join Chris Ronayne, Cuyahoga County Executive, for an insider’s look at the state of our County. He will discuss present challenges and possible remedies, as well as future plans and projects being considered by Cuyahoga County.
1:00-1:55 pm •Session 2
Workshop D: “Marijuana—Now Available at a Store Near You!”
Alan Weinstein, Professor Emeritus of Law, CSU College of Law
Both our scientific knowledge and the legal status of marijuana/ psychedelics are rapidly changing. Let’s examine those changes and answers questions such as “If marijuana is federally illegal, how are there medical—and recreational—marijuana dispensaries all over Ohio?” and “Why can one buy marijuana gummies at your local corner store?”
Workshop E: “Key Priorities and Plans from the Jewish Federation of Cleveland's 2024 Older Adult Task Force”
Emily Shapiro, Senior Associate in Community Planning & Allocations at the Jewish Federation of Cleveland, and Susan Hurwitz, Chair of the Federation’s Older Adult Task Force
The U.S. older adult population is set for unprecedented growth in the coming years, and the service landscape has shifted significantly. How can we work together to address the needs of older adults in Cleveland's Jewish Community?
Workshop F: “Freedom to Read: The Impact of Book Banning in Schools and Libraries”
Steve Potash, President & Chief Executive Officer of OverDrive
Join Steve Potash for a critical conversation on the growing movement of book banning in schools and libraries across the United States. This session will explore the real-world impact of censorship on education, intellectual freedom, and diverse storytelling. Learn how communities can advocate for the right to read and ensure access to books that reflect all voices and experiences.