The Holocaust: Choices that Shape Humanity

Date: June 15-19, 2026

Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico

About the 2026 Program

Step into a deep, inquiry-driven exploration of the Holocaust using original documents, survivor voices, and unforgettable literature. Together, we’ll unpack the human decisions, moral complexities, and cultural narratives that shaped this history. The seminar fosters meaningful reflection and lively discussion, helping you connect past events to the urgent ethical questions facing students and society today.

2026 Program Benefits

  • Hear the unforgettable firsthand story of a hidden child of the Holocaust
  • Step inside a synagogue and engage in meaningful conversation with a rabbi
  • Dive into hands-on learning, exploring classroom-ready content and teaching strategies
  • Leave with a robust toolbox of lessons, activities, and resources
  • Housing available for out-of-town participants

With thanks to Dr. Mary Pratt for her generous ongoing support of this seminar.

Leaders

  • Barbara Lazar

    Barbara Lazar is a veteran middle school teacher and librarian. She has continually valued teaching the Holocaust and social justice through literature, writing, and art. She has been working with TOLI since 2015, participated in the flagship TOLI Leadership Seminar in New York in 2023, is a Belfer Conference alumnus, and as part of the Educational Leadership team for the New Mexico Holocaust and Intolerance Museum, she maintains her passion for the importance of Holocaust and human rights education, and working with educators.

  • Susan Quintana

    Susan Quintana, a 34-year teaching veteran, taught Humanities, Mock Trial, World History and 20th Century Genocide History at Pojoaque Valley High School in Pojoaque, New Mexico. She is a United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Fellow, and a Golden Apple recipient. She was Pojoaque Valley Schools Teacher of the Year and recognized with an Excellence in Teaching Award by the Lanl Foundation. Susan attended the TOLI New York Summer Seminar in 2012. She is passionate about social justice issues as they resonate today in classrooms and communities in New Mexico.

  • Michelle Thompson-Loyd

    Michelle Thompson-Loyd, a veteran elementary and high school teacher, is a 2016 graduate of the TOLI Summer Institute in New York. She taught AP US History, U.S. History, and Constitutional Law for 13 years. She has also taught Great Books, Contemporary Issues and Mentorship, and was an AVID coordinator for the Albuquerque Public Schools. She is a reader leader for the AP US History exam.