The Arizona Jewish Historical Society (AZJHS) announced the groundbreaking of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center (HFHEC), a 30,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that will transform Holocaust education across Arizona. Designed to serve middle and high school students, the Center will teach the enduring lessons of the Holocaust by providing immersive exhibits, local survivor testimonies, and curriculum-aligned programming to empower young people to stand up against antisemitism and hate.  

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Once it opens in Spring 2027, the Center will welcome more than 50,000 visitors annually, including students, educators, and community members from across the state and beyond. 

“In an era of escalating antisemitism and open hatred, we’re seeing how dangerous rhetoric fuels real-world violence,” said Steve Hilton, Project Chair of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center. “This center is our response—bold educational action to protect the future and preserve the truth.” 

“This groundbreaking marks a profound step in our collective responsibility,” said Talli Dippold, Executive Director of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center. “We are creating a place where remembrance leads to responsibility—and where education becomes a powerful force against hate.” 

The groundbreaking ceremony featured remarks by Governor Katie Hobbs, Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and Holocaust survivor Oskar Knoblauch, as well as local officials, community leaders, and major donors. Attendees also received a first look at the Center’s immersive gallery designs. 

Highlights of the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center:

  • A Permanent Exhibit traces the rise of Nazism, the Holocaust, and its aftermath, interwoven with personal stories from Arizona-based survivors. 
  • Holographic Testimony & Interactive Storytelling powered by next-generation technology. 
  • Curriculum-Aligned Programs and Digital Learning Platforms for students and educators across Arizona, including professional development and student field trips. 
  • Jewish Life Gallery: Celebrates Jewish life before and after the Holocaust. 

Located in the heart of downtown Phoenix, the new Center will serve as Arizona’s leading institution for Holocaust education. Designed as an interactive and immersive space, the Hilton Family Holocaust Education Center will feature dynamic temporary exhibits, survivor testimonies brought to life through cutting-edge technology, a dedicated gallery on Jewish life before and after the Holocaust, and educational programming that empowers students and educators to confront antisemitism and injustice.   

This transformative project is made possible through a partnership of public and private supporters. Contributions are still being accepted from individuals and organizations committed to combating hate and preserving history. 

To learn more or get involved, visit www.azjhs.org or www.hfhecaz.org.