Laurence J. “Larry” Silberstein: A Legacy in Jewish Studies
Renowned academic and esteemed scholar, Laurence J. “Larry” Silberstein, known for his pivotal role in Jewish Studies at Lehigh University, has passed away at the age of 89 on July 30, 2026. His work has left an indelible mark on the academic community and beyond.
Silberstein’s journey with Lehigh University began in 1984 when he took the initiative to establish the Jewish Studies program, assuming the role of the inaugural Philip and Muriel Berman Professor of Jewish Studies. Over his nearly thirty-year tenure, he significantly influenced the institution’s academic landscape by founding two Berman chairs and the Apter Chair in Holocaust Studies and Ethical Values.
In his capacity as the founding director of the Berman Center, Silberstein was instrumental in developing a comprehensive Jewish Studies program. This included a diverse range of courses, biennial conferences, study programs in Israel, and a visiting position at the Gregorian University in Rome. Additionally, he launched a book series in collaboration with New York University Press.
Beyond his tenure at Lehigh, Silberstein’s distinguished career spanned several prestigious institutions, including the University of Pennsylvania, Swarthmore College, Haverford College, Princeton University, and the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome. His contributions to modern Jewish thought and culture were extensive, with chapters in numerous books and articles in leading journals in both English and Hebrew.
Further insights into Silberstein’s lasting impact and contributions can be found in messages from Lehigh’s Office of the Provost and the College of Arts and Sciences.
Read More Here
Comments are closed.