The JGC is a dedicated center for Torah learning in Chicago, offering women of all ages a space to grow and connect, long after seminary.
Torah learning in full bloom
What’s the purpose of the JGC?
For many frum women, the conclusion of seminary marks a pivotal moment in their lives. The immersive environment of seminary and the sense of belonging it engenders often feels unmatched, and the transition back to ‘real life’ can leave a void. Balancing work, family, and community responsibilities makes it difficult to carve out time to learn with their peers and seek mentorship from teachers. This challenge exists not just for seminary graduates, but for women of all ages who must find opportunities to learn and connect with others in a piecemeal fashion. The need for a center dedicated to high-quality learning opportunities is greater than ever. The Judith Grunfeld Center addresses this problem by offering diverse classes and lectures tailored to the unique needs of frum women, from post-seminary to post-retirement. We also offer separate programming for girls, from elementary school through high school, to set the stage for life-long learning and community engagement. Through thoughtfully designed programming and shiurim, we create space for women and girls to reconnect with the inspiration and depth of Torah in a way that enhances, rather than competes with, everyday life.
Who is the JGC named after?
The JGC is inspired by the life and legacy of Dr. Judith Grunfeld (1902 - 1998), the formidable teacher, headmistress, and right-hand woman to Sarah Schenirer during the nascent stages of the Bais Yaakov Movement in Kraków, Poland. You can learn more about her on our website here.