UNCA Center for Jewish Studies

The University of North Carolina Asheville's Center for Jewish Studies (UNCACJS) operates as an academic hub within the liberal arts campus, coordinating interdisciplinary coursework in Jewish civilization, religion, and cultural heritage. Faculty members conduct research across multiple departments while developing curriculum materials for Jewish Studies programs. The center maintains an active schedule of public lectures, scholarly presentations, and educational workshops open to campus and regional participants. UNCACJS builds institutional partnerships between UNC Asheville and Jewish cultural organizations throughout Western North Carolina, creating pathways for student research and community-based learning. The center provides academic advising and course planning support for students pursuing Jewish Studies coursework or related independent projects. Local synagogues and Jewish community groups collaborate with UNCACJS to develop educational programming and cultural events. The center contributes to UNC Asheville's broader liberal arts mission through cross-listed courses in history, religious studies, literature, and social sciences focused on Jewish themes and perspectives. UNCACJS maintains a resource library of academic materials and primary sources available to researchers and visiting scholars. Faculty affiliates of the center regularly present their work at academic conferences and publish in Jewish Studies journals.