Last Shabbos, Bruriah students and faculty gathered at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel in Tarrytown, New York for their annual G.O. Shabbaton. G.O. Shabbaton is planned and implemented each year by the Bruriah G.O. who work together under the extraordinary leadership of Dena Lichtman to provide Bruriah students with an unforgettable Shabbos, one that transforms each and every student at Bruriah.

The weeks leading up to the shabbaton were filled with excitement and anticipation with daily countdowns being announced. From the moment the students arrived at the hotel on Friday afternoon, the signature Bruriah ruach pulsed through the air, with dancing, singing and smiles that lasted throughout the entirety of Shabbos—and how fitting it was for the theme of Shabbos was simcha. Over Shabbos, the students had the opportunity to hear words of inspiration from renowned speaker, Shifra Rabenstein, who spoke about being b’simcha throughout life’s challenges. Rabenstein explained that true simcha is a mindset.

Uplifting Friday night onegs, inspiring Shabbos zemiros, thought-provoking learning sessions with faculty and hilarious G.O. and faculty skits comprised an unforgettable program of growth, connection and camaraderie.

After a beautiful musical Havdala, Bruriah students switched gears for the most incredible Motzei Shabbos of the year. Decked out in their grade swag, students competed in Grade Wars where they played human foosball, Pictionary and other interactive games against each other. After pausing for a delicious melava malka with fresh brick-oven pizza and a pasta bar, Bruriah students danced the night away, ending late into the night with grade songs and slideshows.

“I loved being a part of the planning process from beginning to end” said Bruriah G.O. President senior Pearlie Ness. “It’s really special to see something we all worked together for so long come to fruition.” Students and faculty alike commented on the special ruach, warmth and achdus that were palpable throughout the entire weekend. The memories from G.O. Shabbaton 2023 are ones that they will carry with them for the rest of their lives.