When Learners Ask Hard Questions: What makes a just war?

Dr. Samantha Vinokor-Meinrath, Ed.D., is the Senior Director of Knowledge, Ideas and Learning at The Jewish Education Project. A lifelong Jewish educator and learner, Samantha has lived and worked in Jewish communities in Israel, Washington DC, Cleveland, and New York. Samantha is a recognized expert on Israel education, Jewish teens, antisemitism education, and Jewish peoplehood. She is the author of #antisemitism: Coming of Age During the Resurgence of Hate, a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award in the category of Education and Jewish Identity. She is an alumna of the University of Pittsburgh, the Jewish Theological Seminary, and Gratz College. Samantha lives in Westchester with her husband, two children, and two beloved rescue dogs.

Avi Posen is the Vice President of ConnectED (a division of OpenDor Media), where he leads the division's strategy, manages a growing team and speaker network, and drives the platform's expansion. He oversees content development and community-building efforts, supporting educators across independent and public schools who teach about antisemitism, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and dialogue across difference with confidence, nuance, and clarity.

For over six years, Avi has helped shape Unpacked for Educators' platform, curriculum, and global educator community. He brings extensive experience as a former Jewish day school teacher, Hillel director, and Jewish camp director, and has trained educators and spoken to audiences across Israel, North America, Europe, South Africa, and Australia. Avi holds a Master's degree in Jewish Education from Yeshiva University and has been published in various educational journals as well as in Ynet and The Times of Israel.