My main research interests include Israel Studies, American Jewish history, philanthropy, and non-profit sector studies. I am currently finishing the manuscript for my first book, Checkbook Zionism: Philanthropy and Power in the Israel-Diaspora Relationship. Prior to joining the Jewish Studies Program at Penn State, I taught at Lehigh University and Brandeis University. When I am not teaching or writing, I enjoy spending time with my wife and three young kids.

Recent Courses

JST 10: Jewish Civilizations
JST/PS/Soc/Anth 60: Society and Culture in Modern Israel
JST/Hist 140: Israel-Palestine
JST/Soc/Anth 457: Jewish Communities: Identity, Survival, and Transformation in Unexpected Places

Teaching Interests

Israeli History
Contemporary Jewish History
Modern Middle East
Terrorism