After 25 years of teaching students and shaping the Hebrew language program at the University of Kansas, Shelley Rissien, Jewish Studies Hebrew coordinator, will retire at the end of the Spring 2025 semester.
A member of the Jewish academic and cultural community, Rissien has touched the lives of hundreds of students, colleagues and families.
Before joining KU, Rissien earned her undergraduate degrees in psychology and social work from the University of Maryland and a MA in Jewish studies from the Laura and Alvin Siegal College of Judaic Studies. Her leadership extended over 20 years at Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy, where she served as principal of Jewish studies while teaching biblical studies and Hebrew language courses, and simultaneously leading Kehilath Israel Synagogue’s religious school. She was recognized for her work with the Kansas City Jewish community and awarded Teacher of the Year eight times during her tenure.
Rissien began teaching at the University of Kansas in 2005, bringing the Hebrew language to more than 600 students over the following two and a half decades. Her classroom and office was welcome to Jewish and non-Jewish students alike to foster connections and build bridges between different cultures and faiths. Her belief that the study of Hebrew carries the language forward from generation to generation, connecting the Judaism of the past with the Judaism of the future, has guided her work.
To honor her contributions and commitment, the Jewish Studies Program at KU will host a retirement celebration on Thursday, May 8, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 4017 Wescoe Hall, 1445 Jayhawk Blvd., Lawrence, KS 66045. The entire KU community, alumni and members of the Greater Kansas City Jewish community are invited to attend.
In the spirit of Rissien's commitment to the study of the Hebrew language, the Jewish Studies Program has created the Shelley M. Rissien Fund for Hebrew Studies. This KU Endowment fund establishes a lasting legacy in Rissien's name and supports student scholarships, awards and events that continue Rissien's mission as a lifelong educator.
Contributions of any amount are welcome. Those interested can donate and honor Shelley’s legacy at kujewishstudies.ku.edu/shelley-m-rissien-fund-hebrew-studies.