SEMESTER CATALOG

THE ROHR CHABAD CENTER FOR JEWISH STUDENT LIFE

THE ROHR CHABAD CENTER FOR JEWISH STUDENT LIFE
Welcome to Spring '25 at BU. Welcome to the Chabad at BU family! Now more than ever, as Am Yisroel is experiencing such a difficult time, our community is a source of strength and direction. If you are new, we urge you to get involved! If you are a returning student, we urge you to get (more) involved! This is our time to stand together “like one person with one heart.”
Along with the snow, expect a perfect storm of fabulous events, huge celebrations, thought provoking speakers, meaningful social service opportunities, an eclectic and extensive group of class offerings, and great fun.
Remember, Chabad is about you! As you peruse this guide we trust you will find programs that jump out at you and get you excited to join with your friends! If there is anything you want to add to the mix, please step forward and we’ll help you make it happen! We’re looking forward to enjoying a stellar semester with you all! If you are not already in our user friendly texting system, get in on it now! Text “Shalom” to 607-797-0015 so we can keep you in the loop.
The staff at Chabad is here to help you with any need you may have, please don’t hesitate to reach out!
See you at Chabad!
Rabbi Aaron and Rivkah Slonim aslonim@JewishBU.com rslonim@JewishBU.com
Rabbi Levi and Hadasa Slonim lslonim@JewishBU.com hslonim@JewishBU.com
Rabbi Zalman and Rochel Chein zchein@JewishBU.com rchein@JewishBU.com
Rabbi Yisroel and Golda Ohana yohana@JewishBU.com gohana@JewishBU.com
PRESIDENT - Michal Levine
VICE PRESIDENT - Penina Kahane
MAJOR PROGRAMS COORDINATOR - Avigayil Simon
PHILANTHROPY CHAIR - Noah Hoch
SOCIAL CHAIR - Pamela Kaminsky
EDUCATION CHAIR - Jake Nussbaum
PR CHAIR - Ruthie Isler
GREEK LIAISON - Liel Aghajani
SECRETARY - Nethaniel Darvishzadeh
TREASURER - Edan Ben-Aharon
Daniella Atiya
Tzvi Berman
Aaron Bornstein
Elaine Braunshweiger
Ethan Cantor
Leah Cherson
Adina Coates
Abigail Diamond
Lea Diamond
Coby Goldblatt
Penina Heimowitz
Bailey Kahn
Ethan Kampel
Atara Keehn
Dahlia Kleinhaus
Jonny Kornblum
Sarit Lapin
Arielle Levy
Leah Lipshitz
Sarah Lipshitz
Yaffa Lofstock
Esther Malul
Ariella Mero
DJ Mevora
Sharon Mor
Noy Nebel
Ayelet Nemetski
Kayla Ozcakir
Talia Pollack
David Rezmovitch
Jeremy Rosen
Yonah Rosenstock
Madeline Shalom
Hannah Schulsinger
Erin Shteingart
Aviva Soclof
Gabrielle Stein
Aiden Weiss
Evan Wortman
Gavi Yaghoubian
GIRLS NIGHT OUT
Eden Amona
Madison Boss
Rebecca Horowitz
GABAIM
Shai Fish
Ethan Bernstein
Yonah Rosenstock
Rebecca Shapiro
KIDDUSH MEISTERS
Elan Goldman
AJ Keiser
Isaac Lankry
SHABBAT KITCHEN PREP
Addie Coates
Ethan Kampel
AJ Keiser
Isaac Lankry
Michal Levine
Esther Malul
Jolie Mastey
Jared Moskowitz
Ayelet Nemetski
Yonah Rosenstock
Michal Seinfeld
Lily Kurlander
DJ Mevorah
Lili Pitkowsky
Gilli Richman
Leemor Waldman
SEUDAH SHLISHIT
Ellie Avner
Addie Coates
Sofie Goldschalg
Ellinore Hazan
Esther Malul
Ariella Mero
Hailey Meyer
Daniel Weiss
MAASIM TOVIM
Dafna Horowitz
Laila Klugmann
Ruthie Rapps
Lexi Spiegelman
CHICKEN SOUP EXPRESS
Joe Kornblum
ERUV EXECUTIVES
Ari Weingarten
Evan Wortman
Begin your day with Davening (prayer) from the heart in a warm and comfortable environment.
Shachris: 7:30am Monday-Friday 9:00am on Sundays
• Enjoy a quick breakfast after services.
• Start your day with a quick Torah boost, 10 minute Torah discussion
Need to catch a class immediately after minyan? We are happy to offer you a ride to campus following davening to ensure you make it on time!
Daily Minchah / Maariv services 15 minutes before sunset
Moved into a new apartment / house and need assistance Kashering your kitchen (making it Kosher)? Visit JewishBU.com/Kashering and JewishBU. com/KelimMikvah for more info.
The Shalom and Naomi Staiman Eruv encircles the Binghamton University campus, off campus housing, the Marriott Residence Hotel and adjacent areas in Vestal. An Eruv needs to be inspected weekly to make sure it is fully operational. Sections of an Eruv can be impacted by the elements and may need to be reconstructed.
For a map of the Eruv and its weekly status visit: Facebook.com/TheBUEruv To join the Eruv Checking Committee visit: JewishBU.com/EruvCommittee
Guys, Gals, need a Mezuzah for your dorm or apartment? Guys, need a pair of Tefillin? We can hook you up!
Contact Rabbi Ohana at yohana@JewishBU.com
To get your own Mezuzah visit: www.JewishBU.com/MezuzahBank.
Serving a large variety of Pizza, Fries, Chilli, Pretzels, and Mozzarella sticks.
-We accept Venmo -Look out for our weekly specials!
Mondays 6-7 pm Thursdays 5:30-7:15 pm
Saturday Nights: Check for exact times
For special orders call before 4pm: (607)-797-0015 ext. 205.
Check out the “Metropolis Deli; Offering the World’s Finest Sandwiches.”
Open every Tuesday evening, 6:00-7:00pm at Chabad.
The quality of a metropolitan styled deli in the deep suburbs of Binghamton.
LOOKING FOR A QUIET AND COMFORTABLE SPACE TO WORK?
The Chabad Center has it all: comfortable couches, desks, WIFI equipped, and coffee and cookies in endless supply.
FEELING DOWN? SICK IN BED? A LITTLE BLUE?
Contact Chabad for some love, chicken soup, and TLC to warm your soul: JewishBU.com/Soup
EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT
SERVICES 5:30PM* DINNER 6:30PM
Join hundreds of students weekly for an unforgettable experience!
Student led spirited Kabbalat Shabbat services featuring Divrei Torah.
Enjoy a free full-course, home-cooked dinner complete with songs, sumptuous dessert buffet and friendship.
SHABBAT DAY
SERVICES BEGIN 9:30AM SHABBAT LUNCH 12:00PM
60 minutes before the end of Shabbat. Say goodbye to Shabbat with friends, food, and songs.
*Starting the first week of March services will be at 6:00PM
RSVP is a must! Text Shabbat to 607-979-0015 for weekly info!
JOIN
Join us for Shabbat Dinners!
Kabbalat Shabbat 7:00pm Dinner 7:30pm 1/24, 2/7, 2/21, 3/21, 4/4, 4/18, 5/2
Warm Shacharit Minyan Services followed by Kiddush-Lunch-Farbrengen
Shacharit Minyan 10:30am Kiddush & Lunch 12:45pm Dates TBD
Torah n’ Tso
Dinner and Study
Beginning Monday, January 27th
Warm, Vibrant and Meaningful Holiday Celebrations
Hang out with friends. Feed your stomach. Stir your soul. Mondays Weekly 7-7:45pm
Passover Meals
FEBRUARY 14-15
with guest speaker Rabbi Yechiel Krisch
Friday Night: Fossils/Dinosaurs/Evolution vs Torah
Shabbat Lunch: Where is Technology and Artificial Intelligence taking us?
Sometimes it feels like we are in the wild, wild West! Hear what this award winning researcher and scholar has to say about a topic that is changing our world as we know it.
Rabbi Krisch works in the Biomedical Communications department at The Rockefeller University. His writings have appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Scientific American, Popular Mechanics, and several other international publications. His brilliance and humor make him a much sought after speaker who can speak on almost any topic. He welcomes your questions and challenges.
MARCH 21-22
with guest speaker Dr. Yehudah Pryce
Friday night topic: From a Gangster in Prison to Orthodox Judaism
Dr. Yehudah Pryce was a full participant in street warfare with rival gang members as a teenager. He completed over 16 years of a 24-year prison sentence when he discovered Torah and began his journey to Jewish conversion. Dr. Yehudah Pryce, DSW, LCSW, weaves his personal story of becoming a practicing jew with unique insights, engaging commentary, and inspiration that you won’t soon forget.
Saturday’s topic: Eretz Yisrael, Indigenous tradition, and Antisemitism in the era of DEI
Join Dr. Yehudah Pryce as he shares his transformative journey to Israel, exploring the unbroken chain of Jewish tradition and identity. Drawing from his experiences in social justice and doctoral studies, Dr. Pryce will discuss the intersection of faith, culture, and identity. Followed by a candid Q&A
Dr. Yehudah Pryce is a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) who previously was a full participant in street warfare with rival gang members. Arrested as a teenager, over 16 years completed of a 24-year prison sentence was the incredible prelude to his entry into an Orthodox Jewish conversion program. Since his release from prison on October 22, 2018, Yehudah completed his Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis in social welfare, his Master in Social Work degree, and his Doctorate in Social Work. He works as the Senior Director of National Mental Health and Well-Being Programs for a national non-profit organization, which involves working with community members incarcerated in prison and community members navigating reentry from prison.
Join our Women’s Tishes for soulful melodies, shared Torah, and sister bonding. Stay tuned for dates.
STEP ON BOARD OUR NEW CHABAD ON WHEELS! YOUR GO-TO FOR ALL THINGS JEWISH!
Dedicated in memory of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Itkin OBM, Mrs. Goldie Ohana’s father The Mitzvah Hub will bring his unconditional love, joy, and devotion to Judaism to every corner of the campus The Mitzvah Hub is more than a vehicle; it's a warm, joyful shot of Jewish pride, coming to you where YOU are
Step inside and experience Rabbi Itkin's remarkable legacy.
At Bing Purim is always off the Charts Dreidel even when it's “off semester” EXPECT AN UNFORGETTABLE EVENING OF FUN, ENTERTAINMENT, DELICIOUS HAMANTASHEN, AND COSTUMES GALORE! SAVE THE DATE FEBRUARY 27
TUNED FOR DETAILS JOIN US FOR OUR ANNUAL PURIM
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 7:00PM
Join Chabad in celebrating Tu B'shvat with a seder drawing on Kabalistic traditions. 4 cups, fruit and inspiring insights.
RSVP 'Tubshvat'
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 5
DINNER AT 6:30PM
CHABURAH AT 7:00PM
Join a student-led Chaburah exploring Purim themes.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 9, 6:30 PM
A Chocolate Lover’s Guide to Passover.
Come to your Seder prepared.
Share your favorite Passover insights and learn some new ones while enjoying a chocolate fix.
To RSVP text CHOCOLATE
28-29
Experience the joy of Shabbat with uplifting services and soulful zemirot and an Oneg! Let the Y-Studs inspire you with their energetic and meaningful voices!
If you are in Binghamton for the first days of Passover, Chabad has a seat for you at our Seder Table.
Please reserve by writing: aslonim@Jewishbu.com
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2, 6:30PM
Come find out all you need to know about Passover observance on campus and in your apartment.
Dinner at 6:30, workshop at 7:00. Text Pesach to RSVP
Join us for warm services and scrumptious meals on the last days of Passover
FRIDAY APRIL 18 –7:15PM
SATURDAY, APRIL 19 –9:30AM AND 8:30PM
SUNDAY, APRIL 20–9:30AM
SUNDAY, APRIL 20, 7:00 PM
End your Pesach on a high note sharing soulful singing and mind expanding ideas.
That’s what the Bar/Bat Mitzvah Bash is all about.
If you or someone you know have not yet celebrated his/her Bar or Bat Mitzvah, contact Rabbi Ohana right away at yohana@jewishbu.com and join other BU students who will mark this occasion with a meaningful and fun-filled celebration.
No previous background necessary.
Join a group of students on a Sunday this semester for a special visit to the Ohel, the resting place of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, of righteous memory, in Queens, NY, as well as a quick visit to Crown Heights in Brooklyn, NY.
Interested participants contact Rabbi Ohana: yohana@jewishbu.com
TRAVEL WITH THE BINGHAMTON CHABAD TRIP!
May 19-29
If you are Jewish and have never visited Israel on an educational program, you can join a ten-day, fun filled and inspiring tour of Israel, with that special flavor you get only with Chabad. For free! This trip is a gift of birthright Israel. Space is limited, on a first-come, first-serve basis. Register ASAP at: www.MayanotIsrael.com
Want to add Torah to your week? The Chabad staff is ready to study with you! Choose a topic that interests you, and a time and location that fit your schedule, and we will arrange to study what, when, with whom, and where you want! To get started visit www.JewishBU.com/Takeout
EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING
DELICIOUS DINNER 6:30PM STUDY SESSION 7:00-8:00PM
Study any aspect of Judaism, with a friend, at your own pace. Come with a friend or we can help you find the right study partner. Or join a student-led chaburah/discussion group.
www.JewishBU.com/SupperAndStudy, or contact Rabbi Chein at zchein@JewishBU.com
PIZZA AND PARSHA
THURSDAYS, 6:00 PM
SOUP AND SPIRIT
Taste the deliciousness of Shabbos every Friday afternoon HILCHOT NIDDAH
Let the Rebbe change your world week after week. Join the worldwide movement! HILCHOT NIDDAH FOR THE MAN IN
TORAH ‘N TSO
MONDAYS, 7:00 PM
Dates and times of classes to be determined by interested participants. To join any of these classes or for more info visit: www.JewishBU.com/Torah
We know you want to learn more about yourself, your history, and heritage. That’s what JewishU is all about.
EXPLORE JUDAISM.
EASILY. DEEPLY. REWARDINGLY.
Choose from our focused mini-courses on topics that interest YOU.
Dig beneath the surface of our rituals and traditions and earn JewishU credits while you do. Credits are redeemable for exciting trips, Jewish experiences, donations to charity, and cash.
JewishU classes will begin on February 9th. Each course will include six 75-minute classes.
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim
Whether you have taken part I of this course or not, this is for people who have questions (or like them) and want real, relevant answers about anything and everything pertaining to Judaism. Fast-paced, fun, and lots of discussion.
TORAH-PORTION
Rabbi Zalman Chein
These classes employ Chassidic analysis and wisdom to uncover the inside story of the weekly Torah Portion, revealing the contemporary lessons learned from these fascinating biblical events and personalities.
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim
In this age of friends, benefits, and hookups, are real relationships still possible? What does the ancient wisdom of Judaism have to offer us on this topic, today? Find out in this “for women only” course.
Mrs. Rochel Chein
What can words tell us about how people think?
This discussion-based course provides fascinating insight into key Hebrew words and how they
shape Jewish thought, values, and culture. Together we will explore core words such as Happiness, Success, Humanity, and Faith. We will also explore intriguing words like Intimacy, Luck, Satan, and Messiah.
Rabbi Zalman Chein
An in-depth text-based study of a classic Chassidic Maamor, discourse, that speaks to the existential quest of man in a physical world to make space for a transcendent reality.
Mrs. Rivkah Slonim
In this course, we unlock the secrets of great characters by exploring some of the most dramatic narratives and inspiring personalities in all of history. These thrilling tales of judges, kings, and prophets, including David, Ruth, and Elijah, reach into the essence of the human condition. These heroes and antiheroes teach us eternal lessons of struggle and triumph, courage and humility, hope and resilience.
Come behind the scenes of Jewish wedding. What is actually written in the Ketubah? What's the Chappah all about? Learn all about the halachic ins and outs of the joyous occasion.
Mrs. Rochel Chein
What if you had the chance to meet one of the greatest masters of Kabbalah and learn ancient proven strategies for self-realization and contentment? In Soul Maps, you will receive insight into your inner world and discover new strategies for overcoming obstacles to change and progress. You’ll learn to resolve guilt, conflict, and confusion, and to traverse life’s journey with joy, purpose, and direction.
Jewish Wisdom and Psychology for Building Deeper, Richer Connection in All Your Relationships
Relationships don’t just happen— they’re nurtured. This course empowers you to enhance, enrich, and nurture all your interpersonal relationships—at home, at work, and beyond.
Explore classic Jewish texts paired with modern psychology to uncover knowledge and skills for practicing empathy, active listening, agreeable disagreement, interpersonal optimism, constructive criticism, and effective relationship repair.
The Sinai Scholars Society offers a fresh and exciting context for Jewish life and learning, with thought-provoking classes, social activities, and national networking opportunities, offered to Jewish students with limited formal Judaic schooling. Sinai Scholars invites students to en gage in an open community of study and self-discovery. The program includes eight classes, an exciting trip and Shabbaton, and a $450 stipend upon completion.
MONDAY EVENINGS, 8:00 PM
Chabad Downtown, 60 Henry Street OR
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS, 8:00 PM
Chabad Center, 420 Murray Hill Road For more information or to join, visit MySinaiScholars.com
Project Likkutei Sichos is a global initiative to study and complete the Rebbe's seminal work in 8 years. Likkutei Sichos opens your eyes to the deeper level of Torah that lies beneath the surface of the Chumash, Mishnayos, Gemara, and Halacha that you have been learning. The dazzling array of sources, the mind-expanding ideas, and the practical takeaways make this a unique opportunity.
For only $199 study in Jerusalem this summer For more details speak to any member of the Chabad staff.
Apply for this astounding scholarship at www.mayanot.edu/application.asp
A five-week Jewish experience that enables you to taste Jewish living with a focus on study.
Join world renowned scholars in the pastoral beauty of New York’s Catskill Mountains and receive a stipend of up to $2000. JUNE 18 – JULY 28
Apply at myjsf.org
This week-long program for college women combines learning, inspiration and outdoor adventure!
Sign up for a week you will not regret!
Full scholarships available SunandStudy.org
Welcome Back with Soup and Salad Soiree
Start your semester on the right foot. See friends, and find out the happenings around Chabad!
TUESDAY
JANUARY 21
6:00PM at the Rohr Chabad Center, 420 Murray Hill Rd.
Text Sushi to 607-797-0015 to RSVP
Join BU’s Jewish women for programming in honor of Rosh Chodesh that is fun, innovative, and stimulating, not to mention delicious.
To RSVP Text ‘GNO!’ to the 607-797-0015 one week before each event.
SUNDAY, JANUARY 26, 7:30 PM
Unwind and relax at our Spa Night! Enjoy a serene evening of pampering, complete with face masks, nail care, and refreshing treats. Leave feeling rejuvenated and connected with friends.
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 8:00 PM
This time we're inviting the guys! Meet new people, make connections, and have fun in a relaxed and supportive environment. Who knows, you might just find your perfect match!
THURSDAY APRIL 24, 8:00 PM
Get creative with our Pizza Making night! Join friends for an evening of laughter, delicious treats, and DIY fun.
Shabbat,
Rosh Chodesh Adar for
BATH, BED AND BEYOND Real speak on Intimacy and Marriage
Outrageous lunch and Dessert Buffet by Reservation only
TUESDAY, JANUARY 28, 7:30 PM
It’s cold outside. Chabad's first challah bake of the semester - Come make warm challah with us! Featuring: Decorating mugs, while enjoying cookies and hot chocolate.
Text "CHALLAH" to RSVP. $6 in advance via venmo, $8 at the door
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2ND
Take a load off, grab your friends and join us on our annual ski trip on 02/02!! Transportation, ski passes, and gear are included in the price. All levels are welcome. Must be a BU student to participate. Text “SKI” and send $35 via venmo by January 28 to save your spot!
Hosted by Chabad and JLIC
TUESDAY, FEB 25, 7:30 PM
Hamantashen time! Join us in making your own hamantashen with your favorite flavors! Text "HAMANTASHEN" to RSVP. $5 in advance via Venmo, $7 at the door.
THURSDAY, MAR 20
Girls!
If you sing, dance, write poetry or prose, act, play an instrument, paint, do photography, sculptures, ceramics or any other type of craft WE WANT YOU to share your talents with us all at our annual Ladies Talent Night
And if you are not performing or displaying arts or crafts, WE WANT YOU TOO!
Enjoy a great show, great fun like only girls can have together, and a great spread of soups, toppings, and desserts.
If you would like to perform or display art or crafts, please contact Eiden Weinberg or Rivky Slonim.
Looking for something fun and amazing to do? We got you covered with a Safari Adventure! Stay tuned for details, you don't want to miss this!
SUNDAY, APRIL 20, 10:30 PM
Eat your first Chametz with us!! Enjoy your favorite foods like bagels, panini orders, and more!
Text “CHAMETZ” to RSVP
MONDAY, MAY 12, 10:00PM
Stressed about finals? Come to Midnight Madness to de-stress and hang out with your friends! Enjoy all the eats !
Respond “MADNESS” to RSVP
This exciting and highly competitive Torah game night will have you drawing on all your talents as you have a great time with friends.
Enjoy a delicious dinner!
SATURDAY NIGHT, FEBRUARY 15, 7:00 PM
Who's ready for a night out with the guys? Join us for a Binghamton Black Bears game! Good times and brotherhood guaranteed. Meet at Chabad at 7PM
Senior, graduating Men are invited to an exclusive, high end Dinner with presentation by Rivky on
The Most Important Things Every Guy Needs to Know about Love and Marriage the Jewish Way. followed by no holds barred Q and A Date and Time TBD
APRIL 1, 8:00 PM
Bro Night Alert! Build Your Own Epic Poke Bowl! Load up on your favorite toppings and vibe with the crew. Who's in?
Join Chabad’s newly expanded Mitzvah Corp and experience the joy of bringing cheer and assistance to others. Each week volunteers will visit Jewish patients in area hospitals, residents in adult care facilities and shut-ins. Volunteers will also make special pre-holiday visitations.
If you are interested in volunteering please contact Dafna Horowitz at: dhorowitz@binghamton.edu
Come on over and help cook for Shabbat and holidays, prepare salads and more for a few hundred hungry BU students (no prior kitchen experience necessary) and meet some really cool and committed people.
EVERY THURSDAY AND FRIDAY 8-12PM
Please contact Rivky: Rslonim@JewishBU.com to volunteer or just show up to the Chabad Kitchen.
FRIDAY, MAY 9TH
Don’t miss the most special Shabbat of the year! Cocktails and hot hors d’oeuvres at 6pm, senior picture at 6:30pm, services at 7pm followed by dinner and senior presentations.
An elegant wine and cheese reception for our graduates (and their special guests).
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14TH (doors open at 7pm)
RSVP required: www.JewishBU.com/WineandCheese
Chabad will host services and dinner for our graduates and their families.
FRIDAY, MAY 16
Services begin at 7pm
Followed by dinner
SATURDAY, MAY 17TH
Services begin 9:30am
Followed by lunch and Mincha
Seudat Shlishit 7:30pm
Followed by Maariv and Havdallah
To reserve for meals, visit www.JewishBU.com/Graduation