As many of us are now beginning to wrap up this semester's work and are already planning for a new semester, it is my great pleasure to help inaugurate something else new—AJS News, AJS's first e-newsletter. AJS News will provide all our members and supporters with periodic updates on upcoming AJS activities and publications, information about new resources for Jewish Studies scholars, as well as other features. In coming installments of AJS News you will find important information about prizes and scholarships that AJS sponsors, get updates about our new Distinguished Lectureship Program, and learn about plans to enhance what AJS offers to its members and to the field of Jewish Studies. AJS News also extends our online presence and links with the AJS website, Facebook page, and Twitter feed.
This new venture for AJS is under the supervision of Karen Terry, our Program and Membership Coordinator. Since joining the AJS staff in 2009, Karen has played a vital role in virtually every aspect of our work, and we are most fortunate to have this project in her talented hands. Please feel free to forward AJS News to colleagues and friends interested in Jewish Studies, and let Karen know if you have suggestions for information or features to include in upcoming issues.
In this inaugural issue of AJS News you will also read about other new developments for AJS, as we institute several innovations at our annual conference, which will take place starting this Sunday in Chicago. I look forward to seeing you there soon.
With best wishes,
Jeffrey Shandler
