Center for Middle East Studies
A Welcome from the Director, Professor Micheline Ishay
The Center for Middle East Studies is a vibrant intellectual hub dedicated to the exploration and understanding of the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and societies of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The Center is committed to academic freedom, the power of knowledge, and substantiated dialogue to bridge gaps and foster mutual understanding. Our interdisciplinary approach brings together scholars and students from various fields to engage in rigorous research, thoughtful discussions, and collaborative projects.
Through our comprehensive programs and initiatives, we aim to discuss the Middle East's complex dynamics: from politics and religion, to art, literature, language, and economics. We offer a multidimensional perspective that transcends stereotypes and promotes nuanced analysis. The Center is not just a place of academic study; it is also a platform for cultural exchange and public policy discussion.
Whether you are a student, researcher, professional, politician, representative of the media, or simply someone with an interest in the Middle East, we invite you to join us in important conversations. CMES experts provide policy consultancy to further public and private understanding. Together, we delve into the complexities of the region, uncover hidden narratives, and contribute to a more informed and interconnected world.
Support the Center for Middle East Studies
Previous Events
October 7 and Beyond: A Path to Peace?
Date: October 16, 2024
A conversation between two leading Israeli and Palestinian peace activists, Maoz Inon and Aziz Abu Sarah
Moderated by Dr. Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies
America's Changing Role in the Middle East
Date: April 10, 2024
Speakers:
Ambassador (Ret.) Gary Grappo, Distinguished Fellow, Center for Middle East Studies
General George W. Casey, Jr., Former Chief of Staff, U.S. Army (Ret.)
Dr. David Goldfischer, Korbel School of International Studies
Moderated by Dr. Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies
The Middle East in Review: One Year After October 7
Date: September 24, 2024
Speakers:
Dr. Ahmed Abdrabou, Associate Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Ambassador (Retired) Gary Grappo, Distinguished Fellow, Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Aaron Pilkington, U.S. Air Force Analyst and Expert on Iran
Occupation, War in Gaza, Prospects for Peace
Date: February 28, 2024
Speaker: Dr. David Kretzmer, Internationally renowned legal scholar of human rights, Department of Law, Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Moderated by Dr. Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Sexual Violence on October 7: A Battle for the Truth
Date: February 14, 2024
Speaker: Ruth Halperin-Kaddari, Bar Ilan University Law School, United Nations Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women
Israel/Hamas War: 100 Days Later
Date: January 17, 2024
Speakers:
Dr. Ahmed Abdrabou, Associate Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Ambassador (Ret.) Gary Grappo, Distinguished Fellow, Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Karim Mattar, Department of English University of Colorado, Boulder
Dr. Jonathan Sciarcon, History and Judaic Studies, University of Denver
Israel: From Internal Crisis to War
Date: October 18, 2023
Speakers:
Dr. Ahmed Abdrabou, Associate Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Ambassador (Ret.) Gary Grappo, Distinguished Fellow, Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Micheline Ishay, Director, Center for Middle East Studies
Dr. Adam Rovner, Director, Center for Judaic Studies