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The Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM) and PeerK12 concluded the 2026 San Diego Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) Student Scholarship Contest with a special awards ceremony held at the “RUTH: Remember Us The Holocaust” exhibit at La Jolla Library on Tuesday.
The event brought together students, community members, and Holocaust survivor Ben Midler to celebrate the next generation of young leaders committed to preserving Jewish history and combating antisemitism through education.
The scholarship competition invited high school juniors and seniors across San Diego County to explore Jewish American history, leadership, values, and contributions to American society through original essays and creative projects.
Participants engaged with educational materials developed through a partnership between CAM, PeerK12, and the Tikvah Fund, highlighting the profound impact Jewish Americans, including those from San Diego, have had on the nation’s civic, cultural, scientific, and social landscape.
The awards presentation took place alongside a talk by Midler, who turns 98 later this month. His testimony served as a powerful reminder of the importance of safeguarding historical memory and ensuring that future generations are taught both the dangers of rising antisemitism and the vibrant legacy of Jewish American life over the past three centuries.
“Education remains among the strongest tools for countering antisemitism and building bridges,” CAM CEO Sacha Roytman said. “The enthusiasm and thoughtfulness shown by these students is deeply encouraging and reflects a sincere commitment to learning about Jewish American heritage and understanding its enduring influence on the United States as it celebrates its 250th anniversary. From past scholarship contests in Virginia and Iowa, and now San Diego, as well as other educational initiatives, CAM is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for young Americans of all backgrounds to engage with history, become more informed citizens, and stand in solidarity with the Jewish people.”
PeerK12 Co-Founder Tamar Caspi emphasized the importance of integrating Jewish American history into mainstream education.
“One of the most effective ways to combat antisemitism is to ensure that Jewish stories, experiences, and contributions are included as a normal and essential part of K-12 education,” Caspi said. “When students learn about Jewish Americans alongside other communities that helped build this country, it humanizes Jewish identity, breaks down stereotypes, and creates a stronger foundation for mutual understanding. Jewish American history is American history, and every student deserves the opportunity to learn it.”
The event honored several outstanding student submissions, including those of:
Isabel Vann, who created multiple original poems celebrating the life and legacy of Jonas Salk, weaving together Jewish values, scientific innovation, and San Diego history through creative and thoroughly-researched literary works. She graduated from Canyon Crest Academy and is attending Indiana University in the fall.
Abigail Weisman, whose essay examined the civic leadership of San Diego Sheriff Bill Kolender and Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, connecting their achievements to Jewish values of tikkun olam, chesed, and the pursuit of justice. She graduated from Del Norte High School and is attending UC Berkeley in the fall.
Jack Norman, whose essay highlighted Senator Joe Lieberman’s leadership in the repeal of the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” policy, demonstrating how Jewish values can inspire advocacy, bipartisan cooperation, and equal rights for all Americans. He graduated from Torrey Pines High School and is attending the University of Southern California in the fall.
Jewish American Heritage Month, observed each May, celebrates the integral role Jews have played in the great American story, richly contributing to the nation’s culture, economy, and polity. From the early colonial period to contemporary times, Jewish citizens have been at the forefront of advancing and defending American freedom, security, prosperity, and innovation, while maintaining a strong faith-based communal identity.
Read more:
More Than 300 Cities Across US Officially Recognize Jewish American Heritage Month in May
Lawmakers Convene for Bipartisan Celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month at US Capitol
