The Holocaust and Genocide Studies program at Keene State College is the only one of its kind in the nation, and it would never be the same without the Cohen Center.
The Cohen Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies held an event continuing the “Cohen Conversation” in partnership with the Keene State college archives. The lecture, given by former faculty Professor Emeritus Paul Vincent, discussed the history of the Cohen Center, but more specifically about Dr. Chuck Hildebrandt.
Hildebrandt was a major factor in the start of the Cohen Center. He is looked at as a founder.
The lecture was attended by students and community members, some who were there for extra credit, some who worked with Vincent in the past and some there for other reasons.
Vincent wore many hats in his time at Keene State, over the 20 years he had over 5 different positions.
“Chuck’s saying was to remember to teach. Remember, remember, remember … ,” Vincent said while speaking on what Hildebrandt meant to him. “I think we all could listen to that”
When asked why Hildebrandt only wanted one classroom and little money, Vincent said, “People like him should live forever, because the next generations ask for more…”
The Cohen Center wouldn’t have been in the Mason Library if it were up to Hildebrandt. After he had worked in the library prior, he wanted to get out of there according to Vincent, stating that there was only need for learning and not for space.
According to Vincent, one of the first courses offered about the Holocaust was “Sociology of the Holocaust” and it was supposed to be a seminar. After over thirty students enrolled, Hildebrandt had to change the course to an upper level. That is where the major started, according to Vincent.
“Chuck’s determination is something that needs to be shared,” Vincent said.“The center is in Keene because Hildebrandt is in Keene.”
“I will never share the same amount of passion that Chuck did. But his passion needs to be shared,” Vincent said when asked why he speaks so passionately of Chuck.
Tom White, Cohen Center coordinator of educational outreach, introduced Vincent,
“I think that many people who came already knew Paul,” White said when speaking on who Vincent is and why he was such a good fit for this lecture.
With the loss of two staff earlier this year, the Cohen Center and Holocaust and Genocide Studies staff continue to hold events as much as they can to continue the outreach to students and the community according to White.
With this loss, the Cohen Center still remains active as the only program of its kind in the nation.
The lecture was on Friday, December 1, 2023. This lecture was one of the last events held by the Cohen Center of the semester.
Ava Pittman can be contacted at
apittman@kscequinox.com
