In a historic celebration on the University of Illinois campus, the Illini Chabad dedicated and unveiled the first-ever combined Jewish student center and dormitory.
Acquired in 2020, the building now stands as a symbol of inclusivity and unity for students of all backgrounds, who find a home away from home, said Shluchim Rabbi Dovid and Goldie Tiechtel.
The event was joined by the entire campus leadership, from the President, Chancellor, Provost, Chair of the Board of Trustees, and over 10 deans. Educators attended from business, engineering, medicine, athletics, education and more.
Special guest Rabbi Mendy Kotlarsky, representing his father Rabbi Moshe Kotlarsky – Vice Chairman of Merkos, and George and Pamela Rohr who were a big help in making this purchase possible, attended from New York. Also in attendance were Rabbi Avi Weinstein, COO of Chabad on Campus International and Rabbi Boruch Hertz, Rav of the Chabad community in Chicago. Members of Illinois Chabad leadership as well as many Shluchim from across the state and the Midwest attended, as well as members of the Tiechtel family from around the world.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, who joined the celebration, emphasized the significance of Illini Chabad’s mission, particularly in these times when the Jewish community faces increased hate both on and off campus.
He declared, “This center will send the message to Jewish students everywhere that you belong here. With antisemitism on the rise, both on college campuses and in our communities, I can think of no message more important to send to Jewish students here at U of I and Jewish students throughout the entire United States.”
Ellie Scott, Illini Chabad’s student president, shared her experience, noting how the organization has provided her with a place to connect with her religion. She expressed, “Chabad is special because it exposes each individual to different aspects of Judaism such as the teachings of the Torah, celebrations of holidays, the culture of family and friends, and so on.”
The event was attended by a diverse group of faculty, students, community members, and Governor Pritzker, signifying the Illini Chabad’s dedication to fostering an environment of acceptance and togetherness.
The Illini Chabad is now moving into an exciting phase two of the project, involving upgrades to community areas, the library, and the building’s exterior, further enhancing its role as a welcoming and inclusive space on the University of Illinois campus.
VIDEO: The Full Dedication Ceremony
Levi Teichtel!!!
Mazel Tov best chabad rabbi and rebbetzin in the world!!!