Using Jewish wisdom as a foundation, we’ll learn how to foster meaningful dialogue and build relationships between diverse groups, on campus and beyond.
Program Schedule
Can we judge others fairly?
Text Study: Staying Humble
Disagreeing with respect
The world is created through language
Our brains' response to conflict
Moral leadership and moral courage
How groups function
The tendency to "other"
Active listening and storytelling
Challenging assumptions
Can we judge others fairly? Text Study: Staying Humble Disagreeing with respect The world is created through language Our brains' response to conflict Moral leadership and moral courage How groups function The tendency to "other" Active listening and storytelling Challenging assumptions
Virtual Sessions
All sessions will be held at 8:00-9:30pm ET unless otherwise specified.
Each Zoom will include a mixture of learning new skills, time in small groups to process and discuss, and Jewish learning/ text study.
Monday, Dec. 9, 2024 — Orientation/ Session 1
Monday, Feb. 3, 2025 — Session 2
Monday Feb. 24, 2025 — Session 3
Monday, March 10, 2025 — Session 4
Monday, March 31, 2025 — Session 5
Monday, April 28, 2025 — Closing Session 6
Immersive In-Person Retreat
Jan. 12-15, 2025 (Sunday through Wednesday)
Near New York City
All Bridge Builders will come together at a retreat center near NYC to learn and practice new skills. Travel, food, and accommodation for the in-person seminar are fully covered. All food at the retreat will meet OU (Orthodox Union) Kosher standards.
Study with faculty and guest speakers who are experts in the fields of social psychology, communication, and conflict management.
Delve deeply into Jewish texts.
Learn about the latest research in social, neurocognitive, and psychological sciences.
Take workshops on how to implement new skills.
Grow your ability to navigate difference and manage difficult conversations.
Participate in small-group discussions led by mentors.
Brainstorm how to bring back what you’re learning to your campus.
Meet new and interesting people — and have fun!
Receive a certificate in Relationship Building Across Difference upon program completion.
Mentorship and On-Campus Implementation Project
Get support, mentorship, and seed-funding for a on-campus program of your own design.
Where and how will pluralism best thrive on your campus?
Our hope is that all participants will find useful ways to bring this experience back to their campus. After the January seminar, participants who are interested in formalizing a bridge-building project on their campus can submit their concept. At least 10 Bridge Builders will be selected to receive a $750 stipend as well as up to $500 of reimbursable expenses to accomplish their project. They will also participate in additional mentoring sessions with staff to help ensure that their project is a success.