What’s Nu, September 2022 | Wisconsin Jewish Chronicle

What’s Nu, September 2022

 

Gan Ami selected for accreditation

The National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education programs selected both campuses of Gan Ami Early Childhood Education, Mequon and Whitefish Bay, for accreditation for a second time.  

The re-accreditation process involved administrators, staff and parents evaluating the program in accordance with Accreditation Standards, according to a news release. After this self-study process was complete, an early childhood professional conducted an onsite observation at both campuses. The Commission noticed strengths in the curriculum materials and activities.   

Gan Ami Early Childhood Education is a program of the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center serving families with children six weeks to K4. 

“Gan Ami educators live the JCC’s mission every day by creating spaces, building opportunities, and inspiring Jewish moments for diverse communities. This renewed accreditation of our programs affirms our reputation as a destination for talented educators who are committed to guiding our littlest learners as they discover the joy and wonder of the world around them,” said Karen Faust, site director of Gan Ami-Mequon. 
 

Hillel Internship at Champaign-Urbana 
 

Illini Hillel at the University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana named a communication internship for Professor Armin Koller and his wife, Katherine Schelsinger Koller, following an endowment gift made by the Kollers’ grandchildren.  

The first Koller intern will begin their role in August during the 2022-2023 school year. The role will focus on communicating Hillel’s work, events and opportunities to the greater Champaign-Urbana community. 

Armin and Katherine met during Armin’s time as assistant professor in German, and they have been involved with Hillel at the school since its inception. “Professor Koller and his wife were symbols of inclusion during their involvement with Hillel. They showed students what being involved in one’s community can look like after college. We want them to be known and remembered by our students now and in the future,” said Erez Cohen, executive director of Illini Hillel.  

The best way to honor my grandparents’ legacy is to provide ongoing support for increased communication in the Champaign-Urbana Jewish community,” said Alice Berkson, one of the Kollers’ granddaughters, who made the founding gift with her husband Alexander Scheeline, and additional Koller family descendants. 

Voter event on Sunday, Sept. 11 

Lake Park Synagogue, Wisconsin Interfaith Voter Engagement Campaign, and Tikkun Ha Ir will host a voter registration event on Sunday, Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon.  

For learning, discussion and refreshments, attend the event at 3207 N. Hackett Ave., Milwaukee.  

The event is part of a larger effort to educate on voting. Guest speakers will include Rabbi Bonnie Margulis, Wisconsin Faith Voices for Justice, on “The Challenges Facing Democracy Today.” The event will also feature a voting and registration resource table.