Tucson Standard

The University of Arizona has announced the establishment of the Edwin and Alma Lakin Holocaust, Human Rights, and Comparative Genocide Endowed Chair at its Arizona Center for Judaic Studies. This development is made possible by a $2 million gift commitment from an anonymous donor, along with contributions from Tucson community members. Support also came from local philanthropists Paul and Alice Baker.

Lori Poloni-Staudinger, dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, expressed gratitude to the donors: "I am deeply grateful to the Tucson community members who have funded the Edwin and Alma Lakin Holocaust, Human Rights, and Comparative Genocide Endowed Chair." She highlighted that this contribution would enhance the college's expertise in these areas.

Leonard Hammer, a senior lecturer at the Arizona Center for Judaic Studies, will be the inaugural holder of the Lakin Endowed Chair. His role will involve research on Holocaust studies, teaching relevant courses, and community outreach. Hammer will collaborate with Jewish communities in Tucson and Southern Arizona and support educators in implementing state-mandated Holocaust education.

Hammer shared his thoughts on assuming this position: "I am eager to take on the responsibilities of this chair, especially at such an important juncture in both world and Jewish history."

The endowed chair benefits from the U of A Eminent Scholars Program, which matches philanthropic donations with state funding. It includes a one-time $100,000 award to support graduate students working with Hammer.

David Graizbord, professor of Judaic studies and director of the Arizona Center for Judaic Studies, spoke about the vision behind this initiative: "The leading donor...has an abiding sense of responsibility for preserving knowledge of the Holocaust and promoting humane values." He emphasized that Edwin and Alma Lakin were committed to preserving Jewish history.

Stuart Mellan, retired CEO of the Jewish Federation of Southern Arizona, praised this new endowment: "It's been thrilling to see the center grow...This newly expanding area of focus will be incredibly relevant not only in academia but also in community outreach."

John-Paul Roczniak, president and CEO of the University of Arizona Foundation said: "This gift helps the U of A advance its land-grant mission...I couldn't be more grateful to our lead donor."

The donation is part of the Fuel Wonder campaign—an ongoing $3 billion fundraising effort by the university.