JCC University features top professors and experts. Our diverse array of topics offers the opportunity to rekindle previous passions, ignite new interests, meet new people and stay involved in the developments that shape today’s world...
3 remaining Thursdays: May 23, May 30 & June 13, 10:15 am-2:15 pm
10:15 am: Coffee and Conversation
10:30 am-12 pm: First Presentation
12-1 pm: Lunch with your classmates (buy or bring your own)
1-2:15 pm: Second Presentation
May 23
Foreign Affairs—The Priorities of Secretary of State John Kerry
Dr. Howard Stoffer, former Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate of the UN Security Council, will give us an insider’s view of the foreign policy priorities of our new secretary of state. We will discuss the major challenges he faces and talk about the US role in ongoing global conflicts.
The Art of Improvisation
Adam Sietz, actor, director, writer and voiceover talent, will teach us about improv as a performance art form. Using volunteers, he will show us improv techniques, games and exercises. We will learn how improv can improve communication skills, develop our storytelling and enhance our creative thinking.
May 30
Ike and Dick-Portrait of a Strange Political Marriage
Jeffrey Frank, author and former senior editor at The New Yorker will explore the tortuous personal and political relationship between Dwight Eisenhower and Richard Nixon. He will discuss how these two men brought out the best and worst in each other and the impact their association had on their presidencies. His book will be available for purchase and signing.
Mental Gymnastics
Simie Weinberger, mental fitness expert will show us fun ways to train our brains. She will show us how we can learn new skills and hone those that could benefit from some sharpening. Using puzzles and games, we will exercise our brains, have fun and be challenged.
June 13
New York City’s Lower East Side: A Revolving Door for Immigrants
Professor Thorin Tritter will explore the history of Manhattan’s Lower East Side between 1820 and today. We will look at the various waves of immigrants who settled there, discuss why they went to this particular part of New York, and talk about the lives they made for themselves.
Controversial Comedy
Davin Rosenblatt, stand-up comedian and radio personality will return to JCC U to further explore what we find funny and what we find offensive. Looking at video clips, some historical and some contemporary, we will get in touch with why we respond the way we do and what topics we feel “cross the line”.
Ask about our couples fee.
Fee for three sessions: $92 JCC members, $113 non-members