Solomon Fellowship

What is the Solomon Fellowship?

A transformative learning and mentorship opportunity designed for driven 11th and 12th grade students preparing for college, gap year, and beyond. Fellows will study some of the great ideas brought forth by Judaism and the West, receive one-on-one college guidance, attend an in-person retreat where they study with top college professors, and be given the opportunity to cultivate their leadership skills and showcase their writing in the Solomon Journal. 

Program Philosophy & Purpose

The purpose of the Solomon Fellowship is to introduce the best young minds to the most brilliant ideas and accomplishments of the Jewish and American civilization they are inheriting. This comprehensive program will empower students to excel academically by sharpening their critical thinking, cultivating their persuasive argumentation and writing, and strengthening their Jewish and Zionist identities. It is our belief that young people thrive when they are exposed to the timeless wisdom of those who came before them in a framework conducive to collective growth. We take great pride that by the time they graduate, each Solomon fellow will have absorbed and discussed great ideas in several focused seminars, submitted original essays to be published in a journal of Jewish and Western thought, and most importantly made lifelong connections with many other talented and motivated students.  

We know that students at this age have one eye on college, and we are willing to invest our time, resources, and funds to facilitate this transition into the next chapter of their education. Our goal is to provide them with the necessary tools, guidance, and support that not only ensure their academic success but also empower them to approach their future, proud of their Jewish heritage and confident in their Zionism. 

Timeline & Schedule

The Solomon Fellowship is a two-year program consisting of several components.

• Orientation Event: Held in New York with a Zoom option for those who cannot attend in-person. This will be held on Sunday, September 29.
• Great Ideas Seminars: Every month, Solomon Fellows will examine articles, generally selected from Tikvah publications, relating to a specific theme. Seminar discussions on each article will be led by Mrs. Sarah (Wapner) Baird twice a week to allow Solomon Fellows flexibility of schedule. While Solomon Fellows are encouraged to participate in Great Ideas Seminars whenever they are available to do so, they are required to attend a minimum of one per month. At the end of each month, Solomon Fellows hear from an expert on the theme they just explored. 
• Retreats: Solomon Fellows will attend a retreat at the University of Florida in partnership with the new Hamilton Center for Classic and Civic Education. There are several date options to choose from, ensuring that each Solomon Fellow will have the opportunity to join without being forced to choose between significant obligations. 
• Solomon Journal: Throughout the two years Solomon Fellows are invited to write for the Solomon Journal, with select Solomon Fellows invited to join our editorial board.