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April 6, 2001/Nisan 13, 5761, Vol. 53, No.27
Regional scholars convene at ASU
BARRY COHEN
Editor
For the first time, the Jewish Studies Program at Arizona State University hosted the Western Jewish Studies Association Conference, March 25-27.
"There is a feeling of western solidarity in Jewish studies. We see ourselves as every bit as important as the East Coast in Jewish studies," said Gordon Weiner, professor emeritus at ASU and former chairman of the Jewish studies program.
About 50 professors gathered at the ASU main campus in Tempe, from the University of Arizona, San Diego State University, San Jose State University and Stanford University, among other schools.
"It was a chance for people to get together and present new work in a less competitive environment," said Professor Jack Kugelmass, director of ASU's Jewish studies program.
At a small conference, there are opportunities for networking and interpersonal interaction, said Allison Coudert, professor of early modern culture and religion.
National conferences offer few opportunities for younger faculty and graduate students to present papers, said Professor Joel Gereboff, chairman of ASU's Religious Studies Department. Regional conferences allow them to present arguments in an academic setting and to receive useful feedback.
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