Paul and Dorothy Grob Memorial Lecture: Riv-Ellen Prell (University of Minnesota)

Many scholars and cultural commentators claim that American Jews are in a new era of vibrant Jewish life and are moving from indifference to participation and commitment to Jewishness in surprising numbers. The Hamas killings of innocent civilians in Israel on October 7, 2023, and ever-increasing antisemitism in the United States, appear to account for these unexpected developments. What does a vibrant Jewish life mean for Gen Z and other generations in 2025? Who will shape this new era? What are its visions? Who participates and who is left out? Are we at the start of a new era or in a temporary reaction to a traumatic moment?

Riv-Ellen Prell is a scholar of American Jewish life, focusing on gender, religious practices, and antisemitism. She is the author of several influential books, including Prayer and Community (National Jewish Book Award winner) and Fighting to Become Americans.