Torat JLIC

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
 
 

Duty Calls: JLIC Directors at War and at Home

 
Guests: Rabbi Yehuda and Hannah Auerbach, JLIC Co-Directors at University of Chicago
 
Episode Overview:
In this episode, Rabbi Yehuda and Hannah Auerbach share their experiences as JLIC co-directors at the University of Chicago, including their response to the events of October 7th and insights on building a Jewish community on campus.
Key Topics:
Yehuda's decision to serve in the IDF reserves after October 7th
Hannah's experience running the JLIC program solo during Yehuda's absence
How students stepped up to support the Auerbach and each other
Building an inclusive Jewish community that reaches beyond the core observant students
Torah ideas that have guided them through challenging times
The importance of consistency and steady growth in religious life
Being honest about one's relationship with God, even during difficult periods
Creating a safe space for students to be authentic in their Jewish expression
"We decided that if after the Chag, I checked my phone and my unit in reserves had been called up that I would leave and I would go to Israel." - Rabbi Yehuda Auerbach
"It's not scary to say how you're feeling about your relationship with God out loud." - Hannah Auerbach
Closing Thoughts:
The Auerbach reflect on the unique and rewarding nature of their work with JLIC, praising the incredible community of students and colleagues they've found through the program.
 
Recoded June 24th 2024