Connecting Jewish Tulsa

The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art receives $30,000 community grant from the Oklahoma City Community Foundation

The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art is pleased to announce it has received a $30,000 grant from the Kirschner Trusts at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation. This grant is one of 49 awarded, totaling $751,913 to support Muskogee-area nonprofits, Jewish organizations offering educational and social services, and programs providing educational and vocational opportunities for children and young adults with disabilities.

The grant will support the Museum throughout the year through this general operation gift. This funding will help provide students with access to high-quality Holocaust Education including contests and tours. Educators and teachers providing Holocaust education have access to resources and support for their efforts in educating students about Jewish history and the Holocaust. Engaging the broader Tulsa community through exhibitions, public events, and cultural programs fostering cross-cultural dialogue and community connection.

The Sherwin Miller Museum of Jewish Art is dedicated to preserving and promoting Jewish heritage, culture, history, and community through art and education. The Museum is a hub for community engagement, regularly hosting public programs such as exhibit openings, concerts, film screenings, and festivals. These events are designed to build bridges between diverse communities and promote dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect. The museum actively partners with local organizations to offer programming that reflects its commitment to cross-cultural understanding. SMMJA addresses several critical needs in the Tulsa community: Raising awareness of Jewish history and culture: The museum’s programs are designed to educate the public, promoting broader understanding and appreciation of Jewish history and contributions. Providing Holocaust education in schools: SMMJA plays a key role in equipping educators with the tools and resources needed to teach this subject effectively. Combating bias and bigotry: In response to rising incidents of bias and prejudice, the Museum has increased its efforts to promote tolerance through its educational programs and public events, working to create a more inclusive and accepting community.

A Museum highlight of 2024 was the honor of receiving the Oklahoma Center for Non-Profits ONE Award in the category of Education. So many wonderful nonprofits in Oklahoma and we were humbled to receive this honor.

“We are so pleased to receive this grant,” says Tracey Herst-Woods, Deputy Director. “The Museum staff, lay leadership, membership, and supporters can continue the important work of educating on Jewish history & culture and viewing Fine Art within the Museum collection or important works from around the world.

To learn more about the Kirschner Trusts grant program, visit occf.org/kirschner.