On Monday, the American Jewish University (AJU) announced that the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, affiliated with the Conservative Judaism movement, will be moving to a new location near the Pico-Robertson neighborhood.
This decision was based on thorough research of Los Angeles Jewish life, Ziegler student and faculty feedback, and the recommendations of an external Blue-Ribbon Commission that was convened by AJU in January of 2022, and has been approved by AJU”s Board of Directors. AJU”s regional accreditor, the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), has approved the additional location through a substantive change process for the Ziegler School.

The new 7700 sq. ft. space is located at 350 South Beverly Dr. on the corner of Olympic and Beverly, and will feature a library, private offices for tenured faculty, shared workspaces, classrooms, a conference room, and Beit Midrash, and will be include a design allowing for collaboration and communal gathering. The strategic move aligns with Ziegler”s mission to cultivate a strong sense of Jewish community and will provide a dynamic learning environment that benefits both students and faculty. The new location is within walking distance of multiple Kosher restaurants, synagogues, and Jewish institutions, which will immerse Ziegler students into the cadence of urban Jewish life and foster a rich Ziegler community.

“With this move, American Jewish University begins a new chapter for the Ziegler School, providing our students with innovative opportunities to flourish in the heart of Jewish life in Los Angeles, said Dr. Jeffrey Herbst, President of American Jewish University. “We are paying close attention to the shifting needs of the Jewish community, our offerings, and our students, and making important changes that will enable AJU”s programs to thrive for generations to come.”

With renovations in the planning process, the Ziegler School is expected to occupy the new space in early to mid 2024.