Dr. Jonathan Sarna speaks on a topic of critical importance for those involved in the work and support of Chicago’s Jewish community. Dr. Sarna examines the economic downturn and its implications for the American Jewish community, especially in the area of Jewish education. Drawing on lessons from history, he leads an exploration of recent trends and difficult decisions that lie ahead.

Dr. Jonathan Daniel Sarna is the Joseph H. & Belle R. Braun Professor of American Jewish History at Brandeis University. He was named one of America’s 50 most influential Jews by the Forward, was Chief Historian for the 350th commemoration of the American Jewish community, and is recognized as a leading commentator on the American Jewish experience. In 2009 he was elected to the prestigious American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Dr. Sarna has written, edited, or co-edited more than 20 books, including the new A Time to Every Purpose: Letters to a Young Jew. His acclaimed American Judaism: A History, the Jewish Book Council’s 2004 Jewish Book of the Year, has been called “the single best description of American Judaism”.

Recorded Monday, February 08, 2010 at Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies.