Faculty

The WHP engages the finest scholars, practitioners, and professional leaders in the Jewish world. Faculty include professors from Jewish studies programs and the leading rabbinical seminaries, congregational rabbis, professionals from Jewish Federations, Foundations and other communal organizations, and leading thinkers and public officials.

Curriculum

The program is designed to deeply immerse current and future up-and-coming Jewish lay leaders in text, thought, and current leadership challenges. Seminars and Institutes reflect the following curricular components:

• Yesodot: Jewish Fundamentals: Exploration of the fundamental texts, ideas, and traditions underlying an active and committed Jewish life.
• The History of the Jewish People: The story of our people from Biblical times to the 21st century. The emphasis on the major issues, personalities and trends in Jewish history helps contemporary Jewish leaders to lead more effectively into the future.
• The Thought of the Jewish People: A study of the major texts and ideas that have shaped our people: The Bible, Rabbinic Literature (Talmud, Midrash, etc.), Liturgy, and modern Jewish thought.
• Leadership Learning: The Wexner Foundation’s conceptual and practical approach to leadership learning, derived from Jewish and secular sources.
• Contemporary Issues: Confronting the complex challenges facing Judaism today, including the Jewish people and Israel, with peer consultation and real-time leadership training.

Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

There are over 2,300 alumni making a big impact across the country. Because of WHP’s deep commitment to diversity and inclusion, the program seeks candidates from all sectors of the Jewish community who reflect diversity in terms of gender, religious denomination, organizational affiliation, biographical background, socio-economic background, Jewish interests, and personality type.

Nomination Process

The Federation supports a Bay Area WHP cohort once every 3 years. Nominations are currently closed for the 2025-2027 cohort. Check back for future nomination information.