Establishment of the First Ever Endowed Professorship in Holocaust and Antisemitism Studies at DU

University of Denver Launches Unique Professorship in Holocaust Awareness

On January 27, 2026, the University of Denver (DU) marked the 81st anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz with a significant announcement. In a ceremony held at the Colorado Capitol attended by Governor Jared Polis and Holocaust survivors, the university declared the creation of its first endowed professorship dedicated to Holocaust and Antisemitism Studies. This groundbreaking step is part of DU's wider initiative, the Denver Difference campaign, aimed at promoting education regarding one of history's darkest chapters.

The newly endowed position, rooted in the work of the Center for Judaic Studies (CJS)—the fourth oldest center of its kind in the U.S.—will serve as a catalyst for advancing Holocaust education, research, and the critical examination of antisemitism. With its establishment, DU aspires to solidify its reputation as a global center for Holocaust education and encourage social change through applied scholarship.

According to DU Provost Elizabeth Loboa, “This professorship represents a permanent commitment—not only to remembrance but to making Denver a global hub for thoughtful Holocaust education.” The professorship aims to foster an environment where rising generations can learn from history while developing a robust understanding of complex issues surrounding antisemitism.

The timing of the announcement aligns with International Holocaust Remembrance Day, underscoring its importance. Additionally, it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the CJS, which has been a pioneer in promoting Jewish culture and education within Colorado. The center’s enduring legacy of commitment to Jewish scholarship empowers the university to take significant strides forward in both cultural education and historical awareness.

Adam Rovner, the CJS director, remarked, “This professorship connects across generations to build the future.” He emphasized that it would provide DU students and the broader Front Range community with invaluable opportunities to explore the Holocaust's lessons and understand the societal impacts of intolerance. The establishment of this chair was also made possible thanks to generous contributions inspired by Auschwitz survivors Emil and Eva Hecht, along with support from the Michael Feiner Family Foundation and Helene and Marshall Abrahams.

The University of Denver's Holocaust Awareness Institute has been a leader in training educators and facilitating public programs over the past four decades. It proudly houses the only university-affiliated Holocaust survivor speakers bureau, enhancing the educational discourse around these critical topics. Furthermore, the institute developed the 'Survival and Witness' initiative, a crucial resource supporting Colorado's mandate for Holocaust and genocide education in public schools.

In this new chapter, the endowed professorship will facilitate research, teaching, and outreach to combat antisemitism effectively. It stands as a symbol of unity, resilience, and proactive engagement against hate in all its forms. The University of Denver’s commitment to this cause not only honors the memories of Holocaust victims but also empowers future leaders in the fight for understanding and acceptance.

In conclusion, the announcement of this endowed professorship reflects DU's dedication to addressing contemporary issues of hatred and prejudice through informed education. It marks an extraordinary step towards cultivating an enlightened community, where students and citizens alike can engage with past injustices to advocate for a more equitable future.