October 2, 2002
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Vanderbilt Hillel, a program of the Jewish Federation of Nashville, will celebrate the opening of the new Schulman Center for Jewish Life with multiple events Oct. 4-12 and a dedication ceremony Oct. 13.
“The philosophy of the Schulman Center is based upon the Jewish concept of hospitality, hachnasat orechim,” said Shaiya Baer, director of Vanderbilt Hillel. “We provide a welcoming atmosphere for all who walk through our doorway whether it is for purposes of spirituality, social action or study.”
The new facilities allow Vanderbilt Hillel to expand its services and programs on campus including worship, counseling, study, fellowship and retreats for Vanderbilt’s Jewish community as well as those interested in learning more about Judaism. Approximately four percent of Vanderbilt’s undergraduate students are Jewish.
The facility is named in honor of Ben Schulman, a 1939 Vanderbilt graduate whose generous contribution and leadership helped make the new center a reality. Located at the corner of Vanderbilt Place and 25th Avenue South, across the street from Memorial Gymnasium, the center is home to Grins Café, Nashville’s only Kosher certified restaurant.
Vanderbilt Hillel is an affiliated ministry of the University Chaplain’s Office, which offers ecumenical and inter-faith programs and promotes the free expression of faith through worship, study, service and the scholarly debate of ideas.
Schedule of Events
The following events are open to the public. Parking is available in
Lot # 14 behind the Schulman Center.
“A Dybbuk, or Between Two Worlds” Oct. 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 at 8 p.m. Oct. 6 at 2 p.m.
Neely Auditorium
Vanderbilt University Theatre presents an 18th century Jewish parable of broken vows, greed and its consequences. For ticket information call (615) 322-2404 or email: lisa.l.barksdale@vanderbilt.edu.
Trembling Before G_d Oct. 8, at 6:30 p.m.
Sarratt Cinema
Screening presented by the Vanderbilt Jewish Studies Program. A panel discussion will follow featuring Vanderbilt professor Amy-Jill Levine, Vanderbilt Chaplain Gay Welch, Nashville attorney Abby Rubenfeld and Fabian Sborovsky.
Vanderbilt Hillel/Student Life Block Party Oct. 10, at 7 p.m.
Schulman Center lawn
Presented in conjunction with the Office of Greek Life, the Student Government Association and Sarratt Student Center, the event will introduce students from many backgrounds to the Ben Schulman Center for Jewish Life on Campus. Finger foods and desserts by Baraka and Grins will be served, and Grins Café will be open. Performances will include the progressive country group Blue Merle.
Shabbat Service Oct. 11, 7 p.m.
Schulman Center
Oneg Shabbat begins at 7:45 p.m. Vanderbilt students will be participating in the services.
Dedication Ceremony & affixing the Mezuzah Oct. 13, 1:00 p.m.
Schulman Center
Special guests include: Israeli Consul (South East Region) Aviv Ezra and Hillel international representative Jay Rubin. Dessert will be served following the ceremony.
Contact: David Glasgow, 615-322-NEWS, david.glasgow@vanderbilt.edu