Binghamton University marks Mega Shabbat 2400
The 30th annual Mega Shabbat met at the Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at Binghamton University on April 5. Mega Shabbat 2400 was created to bring together as many Jewish students as possible in a joyous celebration of Shabbat and of their Jewish identity. Originally named Shabbat 1000, the program evolved into a longstanding tradition that has since been replicated on more than 150 campuses throughout the world. To this day, Binghamton maintains the record for the largest number of students gathered in one space for a Shabbat dinner.
The participants included Binghamton’s President Harvey Stenger and other faculty members. During the pre-Shabbat part of the program, participants wrapped tefillin, danced, lit Shabbat candles, and heard greetings from many public figures, including New York’s Governor Kathy Hochul and performers Montana Tucker and Mayim Bialik.
“Binghamton’s annual Shabbat dinner at the Events Center is one of the university’s great traditions and it has been emulated by colleges around the world since it began 30 years ago,” Mr. Stenger said. “My thanks go out to Rabbi Levi Slonim and the Rohr Chabad Center as well as the many student volunteers who make this event possible. Many of our students are away from home, and Shabbat 2400 allows them to experience familiar comforts — and build a sense of belonging — through sharing a meal with other members of the university community.”
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