This July 2025, TISA had the pleasure of spending a powerful weekend in Sacramento, California, hosted by the vibrant community at Salam Islamic Center. What began as an invitation for collaboration quickly blossomed into something far more transformative.
Held in conjunction with a weekend short course and VIP dinner, TISA’s two community book talks showcased more than just curriculum. They demonstrated connection, shared vision, and revealed the beautifully interconnected needs of institutions and communities striving for higher Islamic learning.
On Thursday, July 17, TISA faculty Dr. Mona Islam and TISA Alumni Ustadh Omar Al-Ani opened the weekend with an engaging book talk on Muhammad (PBUH): 11 Leadership Qualities That Changed the World by Nabeel Al-Azami. Set in Salam’s stunning new library, the session drew a full house, including board members, longtime community pioneers, educators, and eager learners of all ages.
“It was more than a talk,” said Dr. Mona. “It was a meeting of hearts and hopes. People were visibly engaged—not just listening, but truly connecting with the values of Prophetic leadership.”
As the evening unfolded, Professor Mona and UstadhOmar brought not just analysis, but lived experience. Mona shared insights shaped by years of work as a youth mentor, curriculum developer, educator, and mother of five, as well as her long-standing involvement in supporting women’s leadership and learning. Her reflections made the content deeply relatable, weaving in personal stories and practical examples that resonated with the crowd. Brother Omar added his own powerful voice, drawing on his experience as a teacher and Imam to highlight the relevance of Prophetic leadership in navigating today’s communal and educational challenges.
What made the night especially moving was the atmosphere of hospitality, sincere community interest, and spiritual synergy. Salam’s team, led by Executive Director Sister Arwa Houry and TISA alumna and current TISA board member Sister Nosheen Khan, offered a gracious welcome and set the tone for a memorable weekend. Also in attendance were members of the Salam Board and community pioneers who have helped shape the Center’s journey over the decades.
A second book talk about Why Gender Matters by Leanord Sax, followed on Sunday, July 20, led by Dr. Jimmy Jones and TISA Alumni Nosheen Khan. Though the speakers were different, the energy remained the same. The crowd once again filled the room, affirming the growing interest in higher Islamic education. A generous spread of tea, coffee, pastries, and refreshments encouraged guests to linger, connect, and continue the conversations beyond the formal program. TISA also brought materials to share, and faculty made themselves personally available throughout the evening for one-on-one questions and conversations.
Through these book talks, TISA not only introduced itself to a West Coast audience, it also helped elevate Salam’s own aspirations for a Higher Learning Institute. From the heartfelt stories of Salam’s pioneering community to the dynamic conversations on Prophetic leadership, from the rich history of Muslims in Sacramento to the values and offerings of TISA’s curriculum, the weekend reflected the best of what academic and spiritual collaboration can look like.
TISA is grateful to the Salam community for their trust and hospitality. We pray this is the first of many visits and that the seeds planted this summer continue to grow into meaningful partnerships and leadership pathways, inshaAllah.