Earlier this month, students from KU Chabad joined more than 2,000 Jewish college students from 176 universities in Brooklyn, New York, for Pegisha 2024.
Pegisha, held this year from Nov. 15 to 17, is the largest annual Jewish student event organized by Chabad on Campus International.
Twenty students attended alongside Rabbi Zalman and Nechama Tiechtel, co-directors of KU Chabad, to represent the University of Kansas. The event offered “immersive Shabbat experiences,” including meals in local homes, workshops and a variety of educational and social programs.
“The KU students gained so much from this incredible experience, returning to campus empowered to serve as strong Jewish leaders,” Nechama Tiechtel said. “The overwhelming response shows just how important it is for students to have a space where they can connect with their heritage, build lasting friendships and express pride in their Jewish identity.”
Originally designed for 1,200 participants, Pegisha expanded to accommodate nearly 2,000 students due to growing demand. The weekend culminated in a Havdalah ceremony with song, prayer and dance.
Although students represented a wide spectrum of schools — from small private colleges to large state universities, community colleges and Ivy Leagues — they shared a common bond to learn more about Judaism.
“This wasn’t just a weekend getaway — it was an experience of a lifetime,” said Shayna Weinstein, a KU junior from Chicago, Illinois. “I’m so grateful for the opportunity to connect with so many amazing Jewish people. Experiences like this, where you gain both spiritual and intellectual enrichment, are so rare.”
The KU participants stayed with host families in Crown Heights in Brooklyn. For many students, it was their first time experiencing a fully immersive Shabbat.
Rachel Kricsfeld, a KU senior from Omaha, Nebraska, appreciated being surrounded by such a supportive Jewish environment.
“It was so special to feel so comfortable in my own Judaism,” she said, reflecting on the challenges facing Jewish communities in the wake of the tragedies of Oct. 7.
Throughout the weekend, students engaged in workshops, networking sessions and career discussions. A lively debate on Jewish topics was led by Rabbi Tiechtel for the KU delegation.
“To anyone who attends Pegisha, it’s clear these young people are here for something meaningful,” Rabbi Tiechtel said. “Beneath all the fun, there’s a palpable sense of commitment to Judaism. The impact of this experience on a young person’s life is profound.”
“From the moment we landed, it was joyous — a dance party on the bus, amazing connections, and a feeling of one big Jewish family,” KU junior Jeremy Rosenwald said. “I’m excited to bring this spirit back to KU.”
