Ashley Walters is an assistant professor of Jewish Studies at the College of Charleston. She completed her PhD in American and East European Jewish History with a PhD minor in Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Stanford University. She is currently working on a book titled, Intimate Radicals: East European Jewish Women and Progressive American Desires, which explores how unconventional romances among leftist radicals helped produce a new cultural mythology of the East European Jewish woman in early-twentieth century America. She is a co-editor of and contributor to the recent volume, Matrilineal Dissent: Women’s Writing and Jewish American Literary History, published in 2024 by Wayne State University Press. At the College of Charleston, she teaches courses on modern and American Jewish history, Jews and gender, and southern Jewish history.

The Max Kirshstein Internship in cooperation with the Charleston Jewish Federation

Will Kirlin is a junior at the College of Charleston, pursuing a major in History with a minor in Environmental and Sustainability Studies, and a focus on pre-law. He aspires to continue his education as an environmental and preservation lawyer. On campus, Will is an active member of the Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity.

Outside the classroom, Will is an avid reader and runner, with a particular interest in nonfiction and historical narratives. As someone new to Jewish studies and culture, he is excited to explore Charleston’s rich Jewish history and the broader context of Southern Jewish communities. Growing up in Greenville and the Lowcountry, he brings a personal connection to the region and a desire to expand his understanding of local culture and history.

In addition to academics, Will enjoys playing guitar and DJing—creative pursuits that complement his love of research and writing. He hopes to integrate these passions into his internship, using them to enhance the program experience for both the community and himself.