Inoa Honored with Award for Combating Antisemitism

When Hamas militants attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, college administrators across the nation increased their efforts to support Jewish students and others affected by the crisis. At Vassar College, Associate Dean of the College for Student Living and Wellness Luis Inoa had already been deeply engaged in this work, and his ongoing commitment has earned him the Shine A Light on Antisemitism Civic Courage Award. This honor, presented by the Jewish Education Project, recognizes Inoa as an Outstanding University Educator in Action Against Antisemitism.

The Jewish Education Project, formerly known as the Board of Jewish Education, provides professional development and resources for educators working in early childhood centers, congregations, day schools, and youth programs. Inoa was nominated for the award by the Academic Engagement Network (AEN), an organization dedicated to mobilizing university faculty and administrators to address antisemitism on campus.

Following the October 7 attacks, Inoa participated in a series of AEN workshops focused on creating safer, more inclusive environments for Jewish students and others.

“It’s an honor to receive this recognition,” Inoa said. “I feel privileged to be trusted by students who come to me, and I see it as my responsibility to ensure their safety and foster their sense of belonging on campus. Supporting Jewish students, particularly Jewish Zionists who sometimes face challenges here, is important to me.”

Inoa also expressed a personal commitment to ongoing learning. “I’ve worked hard to understand antisemitism, the history of Israel and Palestine, and what it means to support all students affected by the current conflict,” he said. “This award is not just about my work—it’s a reflection of the collective efforts of our administration, including Dean of the College Carlos Alamo-Pastrana and President Elizabeth Bradley, to care for our students.”

The award includes a $2,000 stipend, which Inoa plans to split between campus initiatives and a donation to Roots. Roots is a grassroots organization fostering understanding, nonviolence, and transformation among Israelis and Palestinians through dialogue and collaboration. The group’s programs bring individuals from both communities together to explore what it means to share the land they call home.

“This recognition underscores the importance of making space for difficult conversations,” Inoa added. “While I’m still learning, I remain dedicated to this work and to ensuring our campus is a place where all students feel supported.”