Duty Calls on Campus: Navigating Jewish Life at Columbia University

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Torah at JLIC podcast, we speak with Rabbi Elie Beuchler, director of JLIC at Columbia University and Barnard College, about his experiences leading the Jewish community on campus during a tumultuous year. Rabbi Elie Beuchler shares insights on Jewish preparation (hachana), community resilience, and personal growth in the face of challenges.

Key Topics:

• The importance of preparation (hachana) in Jewish practice and life
• Responding to antisemitism and challenges on college campuses
• Building Jewish community and identity during difficult times
• Balancing academic pursuits with Jewish leadership
• Differences between campus and pulpit rabbinical roles
• Personal reflections on growth and leadership

Notable Quotes:
"The Jewish approach is that hachana in and of itself has religious significance. It's not just about getting to some sort of goal at the end." 

"Looking back on this past year, I would say there are very few moments where you can point and say 'that's where we got a win.' But I think certainly the growth pattern of Jewish students on campus, despite the anger and despair and hopelessness that many of us have felt over the last nine months - at the same time, it's incredible to see the way in which so many of our Jewish students grew up in just a matter of months."

"Jews were able to come together as a community in these incredibly moving moments...both religious orthodox Jewish community and also Jews across the spectrum."

About the Guest:
Rabbi Elie Beuchler serves as director of JLIC at Columbia University and Barnard College alongside his wife Tamar. Rabbi Beuchler previously served as assistant rabbi at the Jewish Center on the Upper West Side and is currently pursuing a PhD in medieval Jewish history.

Additional Notes:
- This episode touches on sensitive topics related to campus antisemitism and Jewish identity
- Rabbi Beuchler gained national attention in April for speaking out about challenges facing Jewish students at Columbia
- This is Rabbi Beuchler's first interview since those events

We hope you enjoy this insightful conversation on Jewish life, learning, and leadership on campus. Thank you for listening to Torah at JLIC!

Recorded July 2, 2024