Danforth Israel Scholars Program seeking teen applicants for 12-session fall series

Pictured above are past participants in the Danforth Israel Scholars Program, which has opened applications for the fall semester program.  

The Jewish Student Union of St. Louis (JSU) is seeking teen applicants for its Senator John Danforth Israel Scholars Program (JDIS), which provides Israel advocacy and leadership training to teenagers looking to develop their understanding of Israel from a historical, modern and political perspective.

The 12-session series includes engaging speakers from leading Israel advocacy and education organizations around the country, community leaders and multimedia presentations. Topics include The History of Zionism; Wars and Peace; Legitimate Criticism vs. Delegitimization; Media Bias; Israel on the College Campus; Lobbying 101 and more. The curriculum is designed to engender a greater understanding of Israeli current affairs and ethical issues through lively, challenging and interactive programming. JDIS also encourages participants to confront the questions raised by current events in Israel and the impact it has on the larger Jewish community. Additionally, students are provided with hands-on advocacy and mentoring opportunities on local and national levels.

The program was developed by Rabbi Mike Rovinsky, Director of JSU of St. Louis, together with David Iken (a 2013 graduate of Clayton High School). 

The program welcomes applicants from grades 10-12 (9th graders will be considered on a case-by-case basis). Students who satisfactorily complete the program will receive a stipend of $350 towards participation on a JSU summer Israel experience trip. Classes run from 7:15 to 8:45 p.m. each Monday from Sept. 29 through Dec. 15. Classes meet at the Jewish Community Center Staenberg  Family Complex, 2 Millstone Campus Drive (in the Multi Purpose Room). Refreshments will be served.

For more information or to register for the Senator John Danforth Israel Scholars Program, contact Rovinsky at 314-696-0578 or [email protected]

Apply at tinyurl.com/danforthfall2014.