Our RVCC community stands in solidarity with people of all races, ethnicities, nationalities, sexualities, gender identities, faiths, countries of origin, and differently-abled people. We believe that racism and hate in any form toward any individual or group are unacceptable. We continue to strive to educate our community and beyond about existing structural racism and inequalities. We are dedicated to celebrating our diverse RVCC community.
Since 1981, The Institute of Holocaust & Genocide Studies has offered diverse educational programs for educators, students, and the community. Through our unique programming, the Institute—a collaboration between RVCC and the Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon & Warren Counties—promotes historical awareness and cultural understanding and addresses the implications of historical events in the world today. The Institute offers educational seminars, workshops, webinars, and presentations for students and educators about the lessons learned from the Holocaust and genocides that continue today. Additionally, “Learning Through Experience,” the Institute’s cornerstone educational program, began as a one-day program more than 39 years ago and has educated more than 150,000 middle and high school students and educators with a unique series of guest speaker workshops addressing the Holocaust and genocide. Learning Through Experience is now offered both virtually and in person.
The work of the Institute is also a vital part of the educational experience on campus. The Morris and Dorothy Hirsch Research Library of The Holocaust, Genocide, and Racism is located on the second floor of the College’s Evelyn S Field Library. In addition to housing the traveling exhibits the Institute brings to campus, the Hirsch Research Library offers books, a video collection, reference materials for research and study, and an area for classroom instruction. The research library provides a wealth of new and current information directly connected to the programs and events offered by the Institute for Holocaust and Genocide Studies. RVCC professors are encouraged to bring their classes to see the exhibits on display, and students are frequently studying and researching using the extensive materials available in this space.
For information regarding programming, resource information, or annual events, contact Michelle Edgar, Program Specialist, michelle.edgar@raritanval.edu, 908-526-1200, x8735.
The programs are being co-sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon, & Warren Counties, The New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education, and the Holocaust Education Center of the Shimon and Sara Birnbaum Jewish Community Center.
2023 Summer Book Series
Join us for our Summer Book Series on Zoom as we explore the past while discussing these extraordinary novels.

Monday, June 12, 2023, 10-11am EST.
Tree of Hope: Anne Frank's Father Shares His Wisdom With An American Teen and the World by Cara Wilson-Granat
In honor of what would have been Anne Frank's 94th Birthday, join us online to hear from the author of Tree of Hope. A book that chronicles Cara Wilson-Granat’s extraordinary twenty-year friendship with Otto Frank, father of Anne Frank (The Diary of Anne Frank). Set against the backdrop of the turbulent 1960s and 1970s, as a young girl, Cara began conversations with Otto through letters reflecting her chaotic teenage years and the violence in America during those decades. He validated her need to be heard and respected; he became her mentor, her wise “grandfather,” as he was for many others worldwide. He truly lived his message. His responses helped her realize what is truly important. Cara’s correspondence with Otto culminated in a memorable meeting shortly before his death, the impact of which continues to influence her life even today.
Please use this registration link for the first book in our summer series: https://raritanval-edu.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WaPVIp4ySI2TIvPM_0XPeQ#/registration
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Friday, July 14, 2023, 10-11am EST.
Independence by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
Set during the partition of British India in 1947, a time when neighbor was pitted against neighbor and families were torn apart, award-winning author Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni's novel brings to life the sweeping story of three sisters caught up in events beyond their control, their unbreakable bond, and their incredible struggle against powerful odds.
To join us for this book discussion, please email: michelle.edgar@raritanval.edu
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Friday, August 11, 2023, 10-11am EST
Peach Blossom Spring by Melissa Fu
A country at war. A family searching for home.
China, 1938. Meilin and her four-year-old son, Renshu, flee their burning city as Japanese forces advance. On the perilous journey that follows, across a China transformed by war, they find comfort and wisdom in their most treasured possession, a beautifully illustrated hand scroll filled with ancient fables. Years later, Renshu has settled in America as Henry Dao. Though his daughter, Lily, is desperate to understand her heritage, he refuses to talk about his childhood in China. How can he tell his story when he's left so much behind? Spanning continents and generations, Peach Blossom Spring is a bold and moving story about the haunting power of our past, the sacrifices we make to protect our children, and one family's search for a place to call home.
To join us for this book discussion, please email: michelle.edgar@raritanval.edu
These programs are free and open to the public. Registration is required.
Contact Program Specialist Michelle Edgar at michelle.edgar@raritanval.edu with any questions.
This summer book series is co-sponsored by The Jewish Federation of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties, The JCC Holocaust Memorial and Education Center, & The New Jersey Commission on Holocaust Education.
