Melton Mini-School to Graduate 16
in 20th Anniversary Commencement

The Florence Melton Adult Mini-School, a project of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and sponsored locally by the JCC, will hold a commencement ceremony for its graduating class of 2008 on Tuesday, June 3, at 7:30 p.m. The event will be especially poignant due to the fact that it is the mini-school's 20th anniversary.

Those graduating from the two-year course will be Nancy Barton, Peggy Berger, Beth Berman, Carol Glassman, Rebecca Gurk, Dana Horowitz, Beth Josolowitz, Matthew Kennedy, Victoria Lackey, Nancy Nathans, Helene Paul, Jo Robbins, Malcolm Robbins, Barbara Shapiro, Pam Sites and Matt Younger.

"The Florence Melton Adult Mini-School enables Jewish learners from all backgrounds to learn about the Jewish heritage and culture in a challenging and inspiring course of study," said Horowitz, who recently was named the new coordinator of Columbus' Florence Melton Adult Mini-School.

During the first year's course of study, instructors and students explore the meaning and purpose of life from a Jewish perspective, as well as examine the elements that make up the Jewish calendar and lifecycle events, said Horowitz.

In the second year, participants look at the dramatic developments, experiences and issues from different periods in Jewish history, as well as address the relationship between Jewish life and ethical behavior, she added. An optional Israel Seminar also is available in the winter and summer.

"The Mini-School's pluralistic learning environment employs a sequential curriculum, written by a team of scholars and educators at the Melton Centre for Jewish Education of the Hebrew University," said Horowitz. "This is every adult's opportunity to explore classic Jewish sources, from biblical through contemporary texts, to investigate issues of Jewish thought, practice and ethics, and to advance their knowledge of Jewish history."

For information about the Florence Melton Adult Mini-School or to register for classes, contact the school office at (614) 559-6233 or minischool@columbusjcc.org.