The First Woman to Lead the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City

The Jewish Theological Seminary in New York City has selected Shuly Rubin Schwartz to be its eighth chancellor. When she takes office on July 1, she will be the first woman to lead the seminary in its 134-year history.

The Jewish Theological Seminary enrolls about 150 undergraduate students and nearly 200 graduate students according to the latest data supplied to the U.S. Department of Education. Women make up 54 percent of the undergraduate student body.

Dr. Schwartz is an expert on Jewish American history with more than three decades of experience as a professor and institutional leader. Most recently, she has been serving as provost at the seminary. Prior to serving as provost, Dr. Schwartz was dean of List College, the seminary’s undergraduate dual-degree program with Columbia University and Barnard College, for 25 years. She is the author of The Rabbi’s Wife: The Rebbetzin in American Jewish Life (New York University Press, 2006).

“It is my honor and privilege to assume the leadership of JTS at a moment that requires nimble action and creative solutions,” said Dr. Schwartz. “For over a century, JTS has played an essential role in fueling the intellectual, religious, and communal vitality of Jewish life. My priority will be executing our academic vision in a post-COVID-19 world.”

Dr. Sschwartz is a graduate of Barnard College in New York City. She earned a master’s degree and a Ph.D. at the Jewish Theological Seminary.