The Sacks Scholars programme brings together a talented group of educators, academics, and leaders to study and develop the teachings of Rabbi Sacks, ensuring that his messages remain relevant and accessible to future generations all over the world.
The programme launches with a one-week retreat in Israel, during which the Scholars create strong connections with each other, learn from respected thinkers, and advance the depth of their understanding of Rabbi Sacks’ texts. Each Scholar will also identify and initiate a project that will further the ideas and work of Rabbi Sacks. Moving online over the course of the year, the programme will include sessions with highly-esteemed teachers, continue to guide Scholars through their projects, and offer them the support of colleagues also working on addressing contemporary issues using the powerful teachings of Rabbi Sacks.
Learn more about all the Sacks Scholars in cohorts one, two, and three, and meet our faculty, here.
Nominating a Candidate for the Selection Process
Please note that the Sacks Scholars Programme accepts participants by nomination only. Candidates must be put forward by someone who can attest to their qualifications and suitability for the programme. Self-nominations and nominations from immediate family members (e.g., parent, child, sibling, or spouse) will not be considered. Each candidate may be nominated once, and each nominator may submit only a single nomination.
Our fourth cohort of Sacks Scholars will launch in the summer of 2026. We anticipate a large number of nominations, and regret that not everyone will be accepted for this cohort.
This is a fully-funded programme, and stipends are not provided to Scholars for their participation.
In the first part of the recruitment process, a Jewish communal leader or colleague will nominate a candidate for the programme who has the following qualities:
Candidates will have a connection with Rabbi Sacks, The Rabbi Sacks Legacy, or Rabbi Sacks’ work. Candidates should have integrated Rabbi Sacks’ writings and ideas in a significant way in their own professional work.
Ideally, candidates will have a significant communal role as a rabbi, rebbetzein, teacher, community professional, or lay leader.
Candidates should align with the religious values of Rabbi Sacks.
Candidates will generally demonstrate humility, thoughtfulness, curiosity, and an ability to be life-long learners. They are innovative and self-driven.
Candidates should have an outstanding reputation that enables them to represent and perpetuate Rabbi Sacks’ legacy.
Summer Retreat in Israel: Scholars are required to attend the retreat in Israel from Tuesday, 7th July to Sunday, 12th July 2026 (subject to change).
Online Sessions: Scholars must attend all 10 online sessions, which will be held on a Sunday each month from September to June. Exact timings will be dependent upon the geographical locations of the cohort members.
Tochnit HaRav Sacks Project: Scholars will design and implement a Tochnit HaRav Sacks project, which serves as a practical application of Rabbi Sacks’ teachings. These projects aim to deepen connections with a broad range of audiences and perpetuate his legacy. A Minimal Viable Project and a plan for further development must be completed by June 2027. Further details will be provided at the start of the programme.
Mentorship: Scholars will work with a faculty member and/or an external mentor throughout the project development and implementation phases.
Promotion of Rabbi Sacks’ Legacy: Scholars are expected to actively promote and contribute to the Rabbi Sacks Legacy programmes; and to teach or actively promote the teaching of Rabbi Sacks’ Torah and ideas.
Alumni Fellowship: Upon completion of the programme, Scholars are invited to join the Sacks Scholars Alumni Fellowship, fostering collaboration with past and future cohorts to continue promoting Rabbi Sacks’ legacy.
Time Commitment: After the retreat, Scholars will dedicate approximately four - six hours per month to the programme.
Please note, details are subject to change and Scholars will be notified of any changes well in advance.
Nominations close on Friday, 12 December 2025. Nominations will not be accepted after this date.
