Ann Arbor Times

Eastern Michigan University’s Center for Jewish Studies will officially dedicate its newly renovated office space with a special event on Tuesday, Sept. 24, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. The event, held at the Center’s new location in Room 106, Halle Library, will recognize a major naming gift from Art and Mary Schuman. The event is free and open to the public. Complimentary parking will be available at the Bowen Guest Lot.

The Schumans, longtime supporters, have played a vital role in the Center’s growth since its inception in 2012. Art and Mary Schuman, in addition to being donors, both serve as members of the Advisory Board.

The celebration will feature the unveiling of a plaque honoring the Schumans, with remarks from Robert Erlewine, director of the Center for Jewish Studies; EMU President James Smith; and Mary Schuman.

According to Erlewine, “This move signifies an important moment in the history of the Center and is a marker of how far we have come.” A mezuzah installation led by Rabbi Cain will be part of the program. Guests will enjoy light refreshments, networking, and tours of the new facility.

Erlewine adds, “It is difficult to overstate how important Art and Mary have been for the Eastern Michigan University Center for Jewish Studies and for all of the successes that we have enjoyed.”

The dedication highlights the Center’s mission to provide educational opportunities, cultural programming, and community engagement. The Center promotes an understanding of Jewish culture, history, and contributions both at EMU and in the broader Southeast Michigan region.

About the Center for Jewish Studies:

EMU's program in Jewish Studies provides a gathering place for EMU's numerous ethnic communities to learn more about Jews and Judaism—a space to build bridges, engage in discourse, and create new understandings between Jews and other groups that comprise Southeast Michigan's diverse culture.

About Eastern Michigan University:

Founded in 1849, Eastern is the second oldest public university in Michigan. It currently serves more than 13,000 students pursuing undergraduate, graduate, specialist doctoral degrees across various disciplines. In all, more than 300 majors are delivered through its Colleges of Arts and Sciences; Business; Education; Engineering and Technology; Health and Human Services; as well as its graduate school. National publications regularly recognize EMU for its excellence, diversity, and commitment to applied education.

For more information about Eastern Michigan University or to stay up-to-date on University news visit EMU Today.