Skirball Cultural Center

==Skirball Cultural Center== The '''Skirball Cultural Center''' is a Los Angeles-based institution dedicated to Jewish heritage and American democratic ideals. Established in 1996, the Skirball has become a vibrant cultural venue and a significant Jewish institution globally. Founded by Uri D. Herscher, the center embodies Jewish traditions of hospitality and the American values of freedom and equality, welcoming individuals from all communities and generations. ===Mission and Values=== The Skirball's mission is deeply ingrained in Jewish values, with six core principles shaping its ethos: welcoming the stranger, honoring memory, seeking learning, pursuing justice, building community, and showing kindness. These principles, derived from ancient Jewish texts and developed by Uri D. Herscher, guide the center's diverse cultural experiences that promote discovery, hope, and social justice. ===History=== The vision for the Skirball Cultural Center originated in the early 1980s with Uri D. Herscher, a scholar, rabbi, and administrator with a profound commitment to Jewish values. The center opened to the public in April 1996 under the leadership of Herscher, who served as its Founding President and CEO until June 2020. During his tenure, the Skirball expanded its campus and programs, growing its visitorship to over 600,000 annually and establishing a business model that ensured its financial stability and debt-free operation. ===Founder=== Uri D. Herscher, the Skirball's founder, was born in Tel Aviv in 1941 to German Jewish refugees. He immigrated to the United States in the mid-1950s and pursued an academic career that included serving as Executive Vice President and Dean of Faculty at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion (HUC-JIR). His scholarly work on American Jewry and his civic contributions have been widely recognized, including being honored as an Outstanding American by Choice by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services in 2016. ===Architect=== The Skirball Cultural Center was designed by renowned architect Moshe Safdie, who has been integral to the institution's development from its inception. Safdie's design philosophy emphasizes the harmony between architecture and the natural landscape, which is evident in the Skirball's campus set against the Santa Monica Mountains. The center's architecture, featuring vaulted ceilings and a Mediterranean landscape, fosters a contemplative visitor experience. ===Namesake=== Jack H. Skirball, the center's namesake, was a multifaceted individual with careers spanning the rabbinate, film production, and real estate development. A supporter of Jewish education and culture, Skirball's philanthropy extended to numerous Jewish institutions, including the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion. His and his wife Audrey's initial funding and efforts were instrumental in the creation of the Skirball Cultural Center. ===Programs and Exhibitions=== The Skirball Cultural Center offers a wide range of programs, including public programs, classes, and activities for kids and families. It also provides educational resources for educators and hosts school programs. The museum's exhibitions, such as Noah's Ark, and its collections are central to its educational mission. ===Facilities=== The Skirball boasts a variety of facilities for private events, with multiple spaces available for planning events. The center also features amenities like on-site dining and shopping, ensuring a comprehensive visitor experience. The Skirball Cultural Center remains a testament to the rich tapestry of Jewish culture and the American spirit of inclusivity, continuing to serve as a beacon of learning, justice, and community in