(Courtesy of JLIC) Binghamton University is buzzing with excitement as it welcomes Rabbi Jared and Sarit Anstandig, the new couple leading the JLIC on campus. With a background in community building and Jewish education, the Anstandigs are poised to make a significant impact on campus life.

Having previously served with JLIC in Toronto, the Anstandigs bring a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to Binghamton. Their time in Toronto was marked by a deep commitment to fostering Jewish identity and engagement among students. Known for their warmth, innovative programming and dedication to personal connections, the Anstandigs are eager to bring their passion to the Binghamton community.

The Anstandigs are not just educators; they are mentors, friends and leaders who understand the challenges and opportunities of university life. Their goal is to create a vibrant Jewish community where students can explore their heritage, deepen their learning, and connect with one another. From one-on-one study sessions to lively Shabbat meals, the Anstandigs are committed to making Jewish life at Binghamton enriching and accessible.

Building
Community Through Engagement

Although the semester has just begun, the Anstandigs have already made their mark with a series of successful events that have brought students together and set the tone for an exciting year ahead:

Freshman Shabbat: The Anstandigs hosted a special Shabbat event tailored for new students, featuring soulful tefillot, a spirited seuda shlishit with singing, and a cozy Havdalah under the stars. The evening concluded with a bonfire and s’mores, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Welcome Back Brunch: This event saw a fantastic turnout, with over 150 students gathering to reconnect over a delicious frittata bar, yogurt bar and waffle bar. It was the perfect opportunity for students to reconnect and for newcomers to feel welcomed into the community.

First Shabbat of the Year: The first Shabbat celebration included a Kabbalat Shabbat held in the JLIC backyard, complete with a tent for gathering. The day was filled with meaningful prayer, a festive kiddush, and engaging Torah study. A spirited seuda shlishit and a lively Havdalah capped off the celebrations.

Freshmen Barbecue: Designed to help the Anstandigs get to know the new students, this barbecue offered a relaxed setting for freshmen to mingle, make new friends, and begin to feel at home in the JLIC community.

Thursday Night Mishmar: A highlight of the week, this event had the largest turnout ever. Students participated in open learning sessions, followed by a student-led chabura, fostering a strong sense of community and shared learning.

Morning Seder: Each morning after tefillah, students are invited to engage in serious Talmud study, led by Rabbi Jared. This morning seder has become a cornerstone for students seeking to start their day with intellectual and spiritual engagement.

Women’s Weekly Chabura: Led by one of the students, this weekly study group provides a space for women to engage in meaningful Torah study and explore relevant topics in a supportive environment.

Freshmen-Sophomore Mixer: Cupcake Decorating: This fun event allowed freshmen and sophomores to connect over cupcake decorating, creating a light-hearted and creative way for students to meet and bond.

A New Chapter Begins

Under the leadership of Rabbi Jared and Sarit Anstandig, the Binghamton JLIC community is looking forward to a year filled with vibrant Jewish life, meaningful connections, and spiritual growth. The campus is ready for this new chapter, and the Anstandigs are eager to bring their vision to life.