Activism and Education on Israel and Antisemitism The Beren Scholars

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As Jewish teens prepare for college or university, developing a strong connection to and sophisticated understanding of Israel has never been more important. The Beren Scholars, our newest initiative, provides meaningful Israel education and engagement for teens and parents at this critical time. 

About the Initiative

Led by Rabbis Zuckerman and Solmsen in partnership with NYU’s Center for the Study of Antisemitism, the program includes: 

  • Launch Event – Sunday, April 27: For NYC-based 8th–12th graders, parents, and educators, with an exclusive pre-seminar gathering for PAS members. Learn more. 

  • Beren Scholars Seminar: During the 2025–26 academic year, 11th and 12th graders will participate in a leadership program with PAS rabbis, NYU-affiliated professors, activists, and leading experts on Israel and antisemitism. See below for more information. 

  • June Parent/Teen Volunteer Mission to Israel: Teens accepted into the Beren Scholars Seminar are eligible for a $2,440 scholarship to be used toward the trip. Learn more here. 

 

Beren Scholar Program Launch Event Volunteer Mission to Israel

More About the Seminar

Beginning in the fall of 2025, the Beren Scholars Seminar is open to applications from current 10th and 11th graders (students who will be entering 11th and 12th grade for the coming school year).

This selective leadership seminar will:

  • Strengthen your connection to and understanding of the land and people of Israel.
  • Help you gain a deeper understanding of the history of modern Israel and the concept of Zionism.
  • Help you better understand and identify antisemitism. 
  • Enable you to gain experience and comfort accessing and digesting a range of sources for understanding current events relating to Israel and antisemitism.
  • Provide support in thinking about the range of opportunities to learn in and be active on college campuses.
  • Provide students with the tools, actions, and resources to respond to challenging situations.

Apply

If you have questions, feel free to contact Rabbi Solmsen.


The seminar will take place during the 2025-26 school year.
 
Faculty for the seminar will include PAS rabbis, members of the NYU Center for the Study of Antisemitism, and other scholars and experts.
 
Please note that the seminar is limited in its size and participants will need to apply to be accepted.