​Martha’s Vineyard Hebrew Center
Summer Institute

The MVHC Summer Institute has brought world renowned speakers and films with Jewish themes to Martha’s Vineyard since its inception in 2001 and has become a cultural institution on the Island.

Two years after the completion of the Hebrew Center’s new building, Stanley Snider was thinking about ways to utilize the beautiful new air-conditioned space. He wanted to find a way to bring together the Island’s Jewish community to learn, talk, socialize, and develop friendships. He also wanted the Hebrew Center and the Jewish community to play a larger and more visible role on the Island.

It began with a dynamic 4th of July program with participants sitting on the hill behind the back deck. David McCullough and the head of the school children sang, and members of other Island groups performed. Volunteers from the Hebrew Center grilled kosher hot dogs and
hamburgers. It was a big success.

This was followed by a series of Wednesday evening lectures and panel discussions with renowned experts on topics ranging from medicine, the economy, architecture, and journalism. On Thursday mornings, the speakers would talk at a more intimate brunch at the home of a Summer Institute sponsor.

On Sunday nights, the MVHC Summer Institute created a Jewish film series. From the beginning the MVHC Summer Institute events were very successful and often sold out.
The MVHC Summer Institute is led by a dedicated group of volunteers. We thank the following leaders:
Summer Institute Chairs
Stanley Snider
Carole Cohen
Norman Sebell (films)
Laura Roskind (films)
Betsy Sheerr
Shelly Eckman (films)
Geri Alpert
Joe Bower
Bruce Eckman