Speaker: Tamar Zeffren

Co-sponsors: Jewish Genealogical Society, Inc., and the American Jewish Historical Society

Summary: As stewards since 1892 of the American Jewish experience, legacy, and impact, the American Jewish Historical Society (AJHS), the oldest ethnic, cultural archive in the United States, holds a remarkable range of resources to support genealogists and the enrichment of the historical record. The presentation will include examples and links for relevant materials, such as the Hebrew Orphan Asylum, Landsmanshaftn records, the National Jewish Welfare Board, family papers, and other holdings. Participants will learn about the organization and accessibility (whether in-person only or also online) of AJHS' diverse collections and how to navigate and see samples of historical material on AJHS' newly relaunched website (www.ajhs.org).

Bio: Tamar Zeffren is the Director of Archival Partnerships at AJHS, where, among other responsibilities, she serves as the dedicated contact for foundations, organizations, and individuals who are exploring donating their records to AJHS; provides education, consultation, and outreach services; and maintains oversight of all proposals, policies, and workflows to facilitate the transfer of collections to AJHS for long-term stewardship and access. She consults locally and internationally and volunteers with a host of professional associations.  She holds a BA from Barnard College, an MA from NYU, and a Digital Archives Specialist certification.