Pardes News
Deborah Shapira of New York Elected Secretary of the American Pardes Foundation
New York, NY – September 17, 2007 – Deborah Shapira of New York has been elected Secretary of The American Pardes Foundation, which serves as the U.S. arm of the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem.
Ms. Shapira studied in the Pardes Year Program in Jerusalem in 1996-1997 and 1997-1998, and has been a member of the American Pardes Foundation Board of Directors for over five years. Ms. Shapira is a graduate of the HaSha'ar teacher training program at the Drisha Institute, and taught Judaic and secular studies at the Beit Rabban Day School in Manhattan.
“Deborah was a brilliant student of mine in the Pardes Year Program, an outstanding organizer for our hugely successful American Alumni Reunion, and is a thoughtful and engaging Jew. It’s exciting to have her take a more prominent role with Pardes,” stated Rabbi Daniel Landes, Director of the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies.
“We’re extremely pleased to have Deborah bring her educational experience and organizational skills to Pardes,” statedJosh Chadajo, Executive Director of the American Pardes Foundation.
"As someone who believes deeply in the values that Pardes espouses, I am excited to be moving forward with the organization during a period of unprecedented expansion," stated Ms. Shapira.
The Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies The independent Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies immerses its students in the study of classic Jewish texts. Men and women of diverse backgrounds learn together in a rigorous, challenging, and open-minded environment. This learning experience nurtures a deep and personal connection to Jewish heritage, a love for the Jewish people and Israel, and a commitment to becoming leaders in the Jewish community. Founded in 1972, Pardes offers Year, Summer, Executive, Advanced and Educator learning programs for university students and graduates.