As you prepare to inhale the first breaths of the Fall semester allow me to take a moment to introduce myself. My name is Zalman Gurevitz and I am lucky to be married to the dynamic and lovely Hindy Gurevitz. Together with our eight children, we direct the Chabad at West Virginia University.

Think of Chabad like this: Your Jewish home on campus. Does home mean warm, delicious meals with company you appreciate? Then Chabad is home. Does home mean a place where you are comfortable with who you are, where you are unconditionally accepted, where you can kick off your shoes and sink into the couch? Then Chabad is home. Is home where you feel safe enough to question, secure enough to search, brave enough to discover who you are? Then Chabad is home.

We are here to create a haven where you can explore your Judaism comfortably, where you can unwind from the daily pressures of school, or engage in intense discussion—if that’s your way of unwinding. We provide Holiday programming that is accessible and meaningful and Shabbat meals that nourish the spirit as well as the body. We offer stimulating classes that are sure to challenge you no matter your familiarity with Judaism. And we are here for frank and open counseling for any of your personal matters.

Of course, the High Holidays are approaching. A new year brings with it the promise of new challenges and experiences. In the university setting, away from your childhood home, you will grow exponentially. You will be exposed to new ideas and people, and it will change you. We are here for you throughout this exhilarating, and somewhat intimidating, time.

Come join us for Shabbat Dinner, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and Passover Seders. Or drop in any time. We are so excited to get to meet all of you. Like, home, the door is always open.

Wishing you a happy and sweet new year, and a successful semester,

Rabbi Zalman and Hindy.