Since the big news came out yesterday that the sale of the American Jewish University (AJU) campus to an international school will not go through, I’ve received plenty of responses.
Most of them are hoping that a deal with Milken Community Schools, which was in the running the last time around, will be concluded. Because so much due diligence has already gone into this option, and from all reports the parties came close to concluding a deal, this would be the ideal outcome.
Milken is a first-class operation, is already in the Mulholland neighborhood, and has a real need for expansion space. Most importantly, Milken is engrained in the LA Jewish community, which means there is already the element of communal trust. There are important components on the AJU campus—such as a Jewish library, a mikveh and tributes to local donors—that a Jewish organization like Milken would know how to handle with the proper care and sensitivity.
But what if Milken is no longer interested? I hope that is not the case, but I heard an interesting alternative from a community leader:
“The foundation and federation should combine efforts and turn this campus into a Kosher senior citizen compound (assisted living, long term care, day programs, etc.)”
I also heard from an Orthodox outreach group who may have an interest. We’re only at the beginning. More suitors may present themselves.
The bottom line is this: The community got a reprieve. We now have a chance to keep this venerable space that holds so much meaning to so many people inside our community. At a time when in-person connection is more important than ever post-pandemic, it’s an opportunity to see what Jewish groups can come up with to bring this spectacular space alive.
It’s a perfect time for a communal conversation. How do we best use this unique opportunity for a second chance?
If you have any good ideas, email me.
