Pardes News
Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies Purchases Land for New Campus in Jerusalem
Four-fold Growth in Text Study and Leadership Training Programs Expected
Jerusalem, Israel – August 9, 2007 (25 Av) – Fueled by enrollment and program growth, the Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies in Jerusalem has finalized the acquisition of property on which to build a new, expanded facility. Pardes plans to move into 55,000 square feet of the new campus in September of 2010, renting out an additional 23,000 square feet until needed for future expansion. Pardes is overflowing its current 10,800 square feet.
The newly purchased property of 1.3 acres is situated next door to the existing Pardes location at 29 Pierre Koenig, in Talpiot in southern Jerusalem, an area noted for its substantial North American population, lively synagogues and sidewalk cafes.
The Pardes campus will support expanded programs with an inspiring Beit Midrash study hall at its heart, seminar rooms, a state-of-the-art media center, and an auditorium serving both Pardes students and the surrounding community, all incorporating environmentally-friendly “green design”.
“We’re turning away significant groups on a weekly basis due to space constraints. This new campus provides a long-sought opportunity to meaningfully broaden our services to the worldwide Jewish community which has been clamoring for the Pardes learning experience,” stated Rabbi Daniel Landes, Director of Pardes.
Pardes envisions a four-fold growth in participants served by its programs, which are widely emulated in the face of growing demand for the merging of traditional dynamic Jewish text study, contemporary intellectual perspective and religious tolerance, first pioneered by Pardes in the 1970s.
“Pardes alumni and supporters are thrilled by this opportunity to strengthen Klal Yisrael. A recent study of our alumni demonstrates that our graduates are exceptionally committed to the Jewish community, and with this additional space we’ll be able to reach more young people than ever,” stated Pardes Board Chair Audrey Kaplan Scher.
Funds for the new Pardes campus will be raised largely from private donors who have expressed interest in the expansion and long-term success of Pardes.
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.
Press Contact:
U.S.
Joshua Chadajo
Executive Director
American Pardes Foundation
212-447-4333
joshua@pardesusa.org
Israel
Nadine Wildmann
Director of Communications
Pardes Institute of Jewish Studies
972-673-5210 ext.240
nadine@pardes.org.il