Holocaust Resource Center

The HRC was established in 1982 to foster and reinforce ongoing awareness of the Holocaust among students, teachers and community members. From its inception, the Foundation's founders recognized education as the integral driving force behind the organization.

Today, the Center continues to honor its founders by promoting messages of respect, understanding and empowerment. We fulfill our educational mandate in three ways: collections, commemorative events and continuing education. 

The Holocaust Resource Center partners with the Human Rights Institute (HRI) at Kean University. To view the work of the HRI, click here.

In Memoriam: Gladys Halpern, z’’l

The Holocaust Resource Center mourns the passing of Gladys Halpern, z’’l, a founding member of the HRC and one of its greatest champions. Born in 1928 in Zólkiew, Poland, Gladys survived the Holocaust after spending eighteen months hiding in Lwów. Following liberation, Gladys met her beloved husband, Sam, and together they relocated to America in 1949, determined to build a life rooted in family, community, education, and faith. After surviving the Shoah and losing much of their families, Gladys and Sam devoted themselves to preserving Holocaust memory, strengthening Jewish life, and shaping the HRC’s mission. Gladys leaves behind a remarkable legacy through her leadership, loving family, and the institution she helped build.

May her memory be a blessing.

Dr. Adara Goldberg and Esther Gonzales were recognized for their commitment to career development and received the Internship Excellence Award on April 2, 2025. Each year, the HRC hosts several undergraduate and graduate student interns from all majors. Former HRC interns have attended doctoral programs, worked in museums and archives, and produced original academic research.