August 12, 2011: Hebrew language classes have always been an essential part of Judaic Studies at the University of Manitoba. Professor Moshe Nahir of the Department of Linguistics has taught Hebrew at all levels for several decades, as well as coordinating the language program. With Professor Nahir on a well-deserved sabbatical for 2011-2012, Judaic Studies welcomes Anat Ekhoiz who will be teaching Introductory Hebrew as a sessional instructor.

Anat Ekhoiz has taught Hebrew and Comparative Religion at the Grey Academy since 1998. Israeli born and raised, she is the head of the Grey Academy’s Hebrew Department.

In 2007, Anat Ekhoiz was awarded the prestigious Jewish Education Service of North America (JESNA)’s Award for Excellence in Jewish Education, honouring “exceptional achievement in the field of Jewish education.” The award recognized her as having “risen to the forefront of Hebrew language teaching.”

She is an active member of the NETA program, an innovative approach to teaching Hebrew developed at the Hebrew University. This summer, she has been at the NETA seminar in Boston, teaching Hebrew teachers from Israel, the United States, Mexico, Russia, and Australia. Her interest in language also extends to Arabic, which she speaks fluently and has taught in Israel.

The Judaic Studies Program is delighted to welcome Anat Ekhoiz to teach Introductory Hebrew during Professor Nahir’s leave. Her course (HEB 1260) will be offered on Tuesday evenings (6-9 pm) making it accessible to working people as well as full-time students. This is part of a full array of courses in the languages of Israel and Jewish culture: Arabic, Yiddish and the ancient Aramaic language are all being offered to beginners this year. (For information on all courses contact Judaic Studies, 474-6691, or visit www.umanitoba.ca/faculties/arts/departments/judaic_studies/.)

For more information, please contact Judaic Studies co-coordinator Justin Jaron Lewis, 474-8696, [email protected].