33rd Annual University Day
Wednesday, May 6 • 9:00 am - 2:45 pm
Park Synagogue, 27500 Shaker Blvd., Pepper Pike
University Day is open to the entire congregation and community.
Participants of all ages are encouraged to attend this informative day!
Register by April 24.
9:00-9:25 am
Check-in and enjoy a light breakfast in the Davis Community Hall.
9:30 - 9:45 am
Welcome & opening remarks by Rabbi Sharon Marcus.
11:00-11:55 am •Session 1
Workshop A: “How to Win Hearts & Minds: Communication Strategies for Combating Antisemitism”
Kelly Fishman, Regional Director of the Anti-Defamation League’s Cleveland Office
Antisemitic incidents have increased by 344% in just five years, and they continue to rise. We all need to learn to navigate challenging conversations and respond effectively. The key to making real change is knowing what to say and how to say it.
Workshop B: “The Challenges of Being a Federal Judge in 2026”
Judge Dan Polster, Federal Court Judge, and Park member
Learn what challenges a Federal Court judge has in handling civil and criminal cases, and mediation. Discussion will include what the rule of law means, what the difference is between a democracy and a dictatorship, and the role of the judicial branch in making sure the rule of law is followed.
Workshop C: “Living Better Longer….at Home”
Paul Sobel, Founder/Executive Director of Village in the Heights
Join us for a discussion about an option for older people who choose to live independently at home, what supports are available to them, and what services Village in the Heights offers individuals and the community.
12:00-12:45 pm •Lunch Break
Enjoy a delicious buffet with choices for everyone and time to chat with other participants.
2:00-2:45 pm • Closing Session
"The Ohio State University Marching Band: Defining Excellence"
Christopher Hoch, PhD, Director of the OSU Marching Band
Have you ever wondered why The Ohio State Marching Band has become one of the best college bands in the country? We are delighted to welcome Dr. Christopher Hoch from Columbus who will focus on the 148 years of band history, show some of the band’s most important traditions (such as Script Ohio), and offer behind-the-scenes details of how the band’s innovative halftime shows are developed. You won’t want to miss this session!
O-H-I-O!
9:45 am - 10:45 am
Ida & Herman Weinberg Fund Lecture:
“The Next Chapter of Mendelsohn’s Park Synagogue”
Featuring Naomi Sabel, Founding member of Sustainable Community Associates, and Susan Ratner, Past Park President
After four years of planning, the restoration and adaptive reuse of this celebrated synagogue in Cleveland Heights is underway. Plans will be presented for its designation as a National Landmark and transformation into Park Arts, a cultural and educational space that fosters the creative arts, lifelong learning, and community engagement.
1:00-1:55 pm •Session 2
Workshop D:“Port of Cleveland: Economic Leader for Growth & Innovation”
Jeff Epstein,President & CEO of the Port of Cleveland
The Port of Cleveland is one of the largest on the Great Lakes, yet most Clevelanders don't know much about the port and its economic impact on NE Ohio. It has the unique power to drive regional growth, create jobs, and revitalize communities through a mix of maritime, real estate, and innovative finance. Mr. Epstein will also discuss plans for the proposed lake front development.
Workshop E: “The Federal Reserve and You: A Conversation with Beth Hammack”
Beth Hammack,President & CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, and Park member
Join us for a “fireside chat” with Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland President & CEO Beth Hammack. President Hammack will share insights on how the Federal Reserve serves the public, and ways that you can engage with the Fed. Come for an informative discussion—and bring your questions.
Workshop F: “Jewish Musicals on Broadway”
Arnold Hirshon,Vice Provost and Lindseth Family University Librarian Emeritus at Case Western Reserve University
Explore Jewish cultural, social and religious experiences as portrayed in Broadway musicals, with the presentation organized around these 3 themes: Jewish cultural and social acceptance, Judaism and religious identity, and Jewish memory and trauma. Presentation will include audiovisual examples to enjoy.