Ruth Cernea facts for kids

Ruth Fredman Cernea (1934 – March 31, 2009) was an American cultural anthropologist, who dedicated virtually all her field research and writings to the analysis of Jewish culture and symbols, in various settings.

Biography

Born in Philadelphia in 1934, Ruth Fredman Cernea (née Gruber) got her BA degree in English literature from Temple University, created and raised a family, and returned to Temple University to complete her graduate studies. After gaining a doctorate in cultural anthropology, she became the Director for Publications and Research at the national headquarters of the Hillel Foundation for Jewish Campus Life (national headquarters).

Previous positions include:

• Director of Research and Publications (1982–96) of the Hillel Foundation
• Chief Editor of the multiyear guide “Jewish Life on Campus”
• President of the Washington Association of Professional Anthropologists (WAPA), 2001–02