Welcoming the Anstandigs: Binghamton University’s New JLIC Couple

As the new academic year begins, we’re excited to introduce Rabbi Jared and Sarit Anstandig, the dynamic couple taking on the role of JLIC directors at Binghamton University! Bringing with them a wealth of experience and a passion for building Jewish community, the Anstandigs are set to make a significant impact on campus.

Previously serving with JLIC in Toronto, the Anstandigs are no strangers to the vibrant world of Jewish campus life. Their time in Toronto was marked by a deep commitment to students’ spiritual and personal growth, as they fostered a welcoming environment for students to explore their Jewish identity. Their innovative programs, engaging Torah learning sessions, and genuine care for each student have already made them beloved figures in the JLIC community. Now, Binghamton is ready to benefit from their warmth and enthusiasm.

The Anstandigs are not just educators; they are mentors, friends, and leaders who are passionate about helping students navigate their college years through the lens of Jewish values. Whether it’s through one-on-one learning, Shabbat meals, or social events, they are eager to connect with students, support their journeys, and create a home away from home.

Rav Jared at the cupcake making event at JLIC at Binghamton University

A Warm Welcome with Exciting Events

School has only just begun, but the Anstandigs have already hit the ground running, hosting a series of engaging events that have brought the Binghamton JLIC community together. Here’s a look at some of the exciting events they’ve had so far:

  • Freshman Shabbat: The year kicked off with a special Shabbat designed just for freshmen, featuring beautiful tefillot, a spirited seudah shlishit with lots of singing, and an outdoor Havdalah in the yard. The evening concluded with a bonfire and s’mores, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for new students.
  • Welcome Back Brunch: As an opening event for the entire community, the Welcome Back Brunch was a huge success, drawing over 150 students. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious options, including a frittata bar, yogurt bar, and waffle bar, providing the perfect setting for students to reconnect and start the semester on a high note.
  • First Shabbat of the Year: The first Shabbat of the academic year was celebrated with a Kabbalat Shabbat held in the beautiful JLIC backyard, complete with a tent. The day was filled with meaningful tefillot, a festive kiddush, and opportunities for Torah learning. A spirited seudah shlishit with beautiful singing led into a lively Havdalah, marking a joyous start to Shabbat observances on campus.
  • Freshmen BBQ: To help the Anstandigs get to know the new freshmen, a BBQ was hosted, offering a relaxed and enjoyable environment for students to mingle, make new friends, and build community connections.
  • Thursday Night Mishmar: The Thursday night Mishmar saw the biggest turnout ever, with students eagerly participating in open learning sessions. The evening was capped off with a student-led chaburah, fostering a sense of camaraderie and deeper engagement with Torah study.
  • Morning Seder: Each morning after tefillah, students have been gathering for serious Talmud learning, led by Rav Jared. This morning seder provides a structured and enriching start to the day, promoting intellectual and spiritual growth.
  • Women’s Weekly Chaburah: This initiative is led by one of the dedicated students, the weekly chaburah offers a space for women to engage in meaningful Torah study and discuss relevant topics, enhancing the learning experience and community connection.
  • Freshmen-Sophomore Mixer: Cupcake Decorating: To encourage interaction between underclassmen, a cupcake decorating event was held, providing a fun and creative way for freshmen and sophomores to meet, socialize, and enjoy some sweet treats.

Girls studying at the Women’s Weekly Chaburah at JLIC at Binghamton University Men learning with Rav Jared at Morning Seder at JLIC at Binghamton University

Thanking the Menoras

As we welcome Rav Jared and Sarit to Binghamton, we also want to take a moment to wish the Menoras, the prior JLIC directors, all the best in their new role with JLIC in Herzliya. The Menoras have left an indelible mark on our community with their dedication, kindness, and inspiring leadership. Their work at Binghamton has laid a strong foundation that the Anstandigs will undoubtedly build upon.

We are excited for the new chapter ahead and look forward to a year filled with meaningful learning, community building, and growth. Please join us in welcoming the Anstandigs to Binghamton University, and let’s make this year one to remember!

Reach out to any of our Directors to learn more about and to support JLIC programming.

 

 

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