With a new professorship in Jewish studies, the University is fostering dialogue of Judaism within a Christian community, said Hindy Najman, assistant professor of theology.

Notre Dame has created the professorship with a $1 million gift donated by Jordan Kapson. The Jordan Kapson Chair will be held by Najman.

"We're really appreciative of the Kapson gift," said University president Father Edward Malloy, "because it allows us to make our mark in the Christianity-Judaism dialogue in a way we could never achieve without it."

"It shows a real commitment by the Jewish community to want to be in conversation with Catholicism in order to promote a better understanding, respect and dialogue," Najman said. "It's a transformative moment in the history of Catholicism to recognize the need to study Judaism."

The long-term commitment to Jewish studies by the University is a small part of the current Jewish commitment to conversation with the Christian community, according to Najman, who, graduated in 1998 from Harvard University with a doctorate in the history of ancient biblical interpretations.

"Hindy is an expert in Rabbinics, the classical sources of the Jewish theological andreligious tradition," said John Cavadini, chair of the theology department.

"The department of theology is delighted that Hindy received this appointment. It is an honor that is well-deserved."

When money is donated to form a chair, the interest of that money is used to pay the chair holder's salary.

As donator, Kapson is ensured the choice of subject taught by the University.

Kapson is the founder and owner of the Jordan Automotive Group, the largest car dealership in the country, which has locations in Elkhart and Mishawaka.

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