Foundations

Foundations is a new summer learning series presented by Chabad on the Vineyard, bringing leading Jewish thinkers, authors, scholars, and public voices to Martha’s Vineyard for thoughtful conversations exploring timeless Jewish ideas and contemporary issues through a Jewish lens.

Hosted in an intimate and elegant setting in Edgartown, Foundations features curated evenings of conversation, learning, and community designed to enrich Jewish life on Martha’s Vineyard in a compelling and meaningful way.

The 2026 Foundations series includes conversations with Rabbi Simon Jacobson and Mitch Albom on the search for meaning and the Jewish understanding of the soul; Rachel Goldberg Polin and Jon Polin on the timeless wisdom of Pirkei Avot and Jewish values in times of challenge; and Rabbi Meir Soloveichik in conversation with Harriet Schleifer on the Jewish roots of the United States in connection with America’s 250th anniversary.

Each Foundations event begins with cocktails and community gathering followed by featured conversation and audience engagement. Space is limited and advance RSVP is required.