FAQ

25 Years of Jewish Life on Campus

I still remember my very first visit to USC.

It was late July of 2000. I had been offered a position as one of the editors of the new edition of the Chumash with Chabad of California. We were given the opportunity to choose an undeveloped area to establish a Chabad House, and we expressed interest in finding a campus location. “There’s a school here in LA, USC. It’s never had a Chabad House. It’s not particularly known for active Jewish life, but you can give it a try…” We were in town to check it out, preparing for our move-out later that month.

Not particularly known for active Jewish life turned out to be quite the understatement. Over the years we’ve met many Jewish alumni from earlier years at USC. So many of them shared a similar sentiment. “I knew there were lots of Jews at the school. But I always felt like I was the only one.” The other school across town was known for Jewish life. USC had a past that was decidedly unfriendly to Jewish life, and while the quotas and blatant anti-Semitism were in the past, the stigmas persisted. Right around 2000, USC had just chosen to actively recruit more Jewish students and improve their relationships with the Jewish community, but it would be some years until that influence was felt.

A fellow Rabbi had advice. “Check out the AEPi; there will be Jews there.” And so we knocked on the door of the fraternity, ready to declare our presence. Miraculously, despite the scarce number of people around a full month before school began, someone opened the door. He seemed a little dumbfounded to see a Rabbi standing there, looking for interested Jewish students. But after a few minutes of confusion, he thought of someone who might be interested. That guy, in turn, had the names of a couple others who might be worth reaching out to. And so it began.

Our first Shabbat at USC was hosted at the fraternity a little over a month later. We were overjoyed at the attendance. But a proud Jewish presence caused such consternation to some of the members of the house that they drew the curtains to block the view from the Row, and a conversation ensued for months to come about identity and Jewishness.

Throughout the rest of that year, we would come to campus about once a month for Shabbat, borrowing or renting spaces to celebrate. By 2001, we rented a small place of our own west of campus, holding Shabbat for 3-10 students every week. When we had 35 students show up for the year-end Shabbat, we knew we needed a bigger place for the next year; 75 students for a “mega Shabbat” towards the end of that year pushed us to think even bigger.

Each event was a first. First Purim party—30 students attending brought accolades from the Dean of Religious Life for breaking all expectations for success. First Sukkah on campus. First Chanukah celebration. First trip to another Chabad House for a Shabbat—2 students came with us to SDSU. (Their comment about the 50 or so students gathered there: “Wow! Do you think we could ever get this regularly at USC?!”) And then, our first permanent Chabad House.

It was a haunted house, vacant for over 10 years by all but the vagrants who would break in, and fraternities who would make their pledge classes brave spending the night. But the location was prime—just off Fraternity Row, in the heart of student life around campus. Somehow, we managed to buy it. Somehow, we found just enough partnership and support to renovate, to make it usable. It seemed like a vast space at first—room for 40-50 people in the shul and for almost 100 in the dining room. 

Yet, as the years passed, the space filled up. First the dining room was filled with a long double table down the middle. Then, on the weeks that enough people came, we’d split the tables, adding more seats along the middle. Then we’d add another couple tables on top, then another in the bay window. Finally, we were starting off already with the tables split and adding additional tables in the shul and frequently in the front hall, and sometimes even on the porch.

Shabbat 300 became Shabbat 500 and finally Shabbat 1000, and we knew we needed to grow once again. Years of construction meant inconveniences, and then Shabbat dinners in the backyard of our house across the street, and a makeshift outdoor kitchen. And yet, the crowds kept growing. We finally finished the construction, and started using the beautiful newly expanded space. And now, 200-300 students each Friday for Shabbat dinner is the norm, with some weeks reaching even bigger crowds. Classes have grown, social events, guest speakers, trips.

Through it all, though, the numbers are not what matters. Those first students we met when we were just starting out are part of our family, dear friends for the past quarter of a century. Whether it’s 2 students at the table or 200, Jewish life at USC Chabad is about the personal connections and journeys, about the individual inspiration, about the lifelong friendships. Which is why we couldn’t be more excited as we embark on the next 25 years.

We started off with the inspiration of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, our little baby Mushky, and a dream of what could happen with faith, love, and a lot of hard work. Today, we begin the next quarter century with an extended family of thousands, with the knowledge that we have so many special partners and supporters in the work that we do. Together, the best is yet to come.

USC stats
2,475
Unique Students Engaged

11,200
Shabbat & Holiday meals Served

28,300
Total Student Engagements

2,512
Tefillin

154
Mezuzahs

2,160
Slices of Pizza

65
Students Attending Weekly Classes

109
Students on Chabad trips

$1,652,726
Annual Budget

Shabbat 1000 at USC is the largest annual Shabbat celebration on the West Coast. With more than 1,200 students attending the outdoor dinner, Shabbat 1000 is a remarkable public display of Jewish life on campus. For many students, it’s their first in-depth exposure to the Jewish community and to a Shabbat experience. For others, it’s a truly memorable college highlight.

This year’s event was held in our neighbors’ backyard, the Sigma Chi fraternity. Starting before sunset, we had leaders of Jewish life on campus share words of inspiration, as well as then-president of USC, Dr. Carol Folt.

Song, prayer, and a delicious homemade meal—the night was just getting started. A lavish dessert buffet followed in the Chabad House ballroom and Rooftop until well past midnight.

Shabbat 1000 isn’t just a number—it’s one thousand stories of proud Jewish students at USC.

Our newly renovated space has already become a gathering place for hundreds seeking inspiration and wisdom. This year, we hosted former hostages from Gaza — including Moran Stella Yanai, Louis Har, and Clara Mirman — who bravely shared their stories. Rabbi Leo Dee spoke about resilience in the aftermath of the terror attack that claimed his family. And 101-year-old Joe Alexander, a survivor of twelve concentration camps and one of the most spirited individuals you will ever meet, offered his firsthand testimony.

At our Jewish Graduation Ceremony and at Shabbat dinners, USC’s President Beong-Soo Kim connected with our community and shared memories of his own experience in Jerusalem.

These are just a few highlights from the year-round events of 2025 that make Chabad @ USC a center of community, learning, and strength.

Birthright student quotes

Birthright was an incredibly transformative experience for me. Despite having been to Israel many times, Taglit helped me connect to Israel further and to other Jewish students at USC. Being a practicing Jew in college can be difficult, especially in the face of rising antisemitism. I didn’t think it was possible for Chabad to help me feel more at home than it already has, but the connections I built during this trip turned the USC Jewish community from friends into family.

— Keira B (‘27)

This trip has honestly been one of the most memorable experiences of my life. For the first time, I felt truly connected to my Jewish peers and, more importantly, I felt included. It was so special getting to meet and bond with people from such different backgrounds, yet still feel this deep sense of unity.

— Ava A (‘26)

This Birthright trip has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it. Being in Israel with such a special group gave me a deeper connection to my heritage, my identity, and to this land. From exploring Jerusalem and floating in the Dead Sea to the long bus rides filled with laughter and late-night conversations, every moment left an impression.

— Maddie M (‘26)

This was my second Pegisha. I had such an incredible experience the first time that I convinced 4 of my friends to join the trip this year. I was able to connect with other Jews from all over the world and gain a stronger sense of Jewish identity. Pegisha was so uplifting, spiritual, and a lot of fun!

— Mika G (‘28)

At USC, education is a priority—and we make it our mission to bring Torah learning to students wherever they are. Throughout the week, our daily Lunch & Learns pop up across campus, offering meaningful insights and lively discussion. (Fun fact: students enjoyed 2,160 slices of pizza this year while learning Torah!)

Our flagship weekly course, the renowned Sinai Scholars series, explores Judaism’s most essential and practical ideas, giving students a deep and lasting foundation in Jewish thought.

Because student schedules differ and interests vary, we offer a wide range of classes throughout the week. From ethical dilemmas to Jewish history to conversations about relationships and identity, no topic is off-limits in our dynamic and engaging learning spaces.

To further encourage participation and expand horizons, we provide stipends and immersive travel opportunities through the JewishU program—including recent trips to Dubai, Morocco, Spain, and Panama.

Together, these classes create a vibrant culture of learning at USC—one where Jewish knowledge is accessible, relevant, and alive. Our students aren’t just attending classes; they’re building a lifelong relationship with Torah that will inspire them long after they leave campus.

Donor Spotlight

1. Where are you now / what have you done since USC?

Since graduating and following law school, with thanks to and blessings from G-d, I have built a life in Washington, D.C., alongside my wife, Jodi, my high school and college sweetheart. We are the proud parents of Gabriella (15), Olivia (12), and Benjamin (8), whom we are raising to be proudly Jewish, pro-Israel, patriotically American, and, of course, die-hard USC Trojan fans!

Professionally, I am a Corporate, Finance, and Investments Partner at King & Spalding, leading our real estate and funds practice across the Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles offices. I also serve as Adjunct Faculty at Georgetown University and on the Board of Governors of the American Association of Jewish Lawyers and Jurists.

I am also honored to serve as USC’s Special Counsel on Jewish Life to Interim President Beong-Soo Kim. USC’s commitment to the Jewish community changed the trajectory of my life; I was the inaugural recipient of the USC Jewish Leadership Scholarship 23 years ago. Serving in this role is my opportunity to give back to the institution that believed in me, and also work with President Kim, who deeply values and celebrates the USC Jewish community, to make USC a leading institution for Jewish life on campus. Additionally, Jodi and I are proudly engaged with the university as USC Associates and through the USC Capital Campus in Washington, D.C.

2. Favorite Memory from USC

It is impossible to isolate a single memory, as Rabbi Dov and Runya are a constant spiritual anchor to the USC community – from hosting shabbats for 1000s, lighting the Chanukkah Menorah near Tommy Trojan, and serving as a home away from home. A highlight was having Rabbi Dov officiate our wedding shortly after graduating, helping us lay the first bricks of our Jewish home.

However, the most profound moments are happening now at USC. Walking down Trousdale with Jodi and the kids brings everything full circle. When we were on campus this year, walking down Trousdale and joining Chabad USC for a Passover event and sitting at both

Seders at Chabad USC with 100s of students, watching our children witness the same vibrant Jewish joy that we experienced on campus—but now thriving on an

even grander scale—is the definition of l’dor v’dor (from generation to generation). Furthermore, no matter where we go around the USA, every Chabad rabbi we meet knows of Rabbi Dov and Runya and the incredible work they do to enrich Jewish life at USC. It is something I am very proud to be a part of!

3. How has Chabad impacted your life?

For decades, Rabbi Dov and Runya have infused Jewish life on USC’s campus with a positivity and richness that sets an example for how we should all conduct ourselves. As emissaries of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, they taught Jodi and me that Judaism is not something to be practiced in the shadows, but celebrated with joy. They helped instill the unapologetic Jewish pride that guides our lives today and that we are now passing down to our children.

4. Why do you support Chabad?

Chabad globally—and Rabbi Dov and Runya specifically at USC—embody the true strength of Jewish life in the way they spread and celebrate Jewish heritage and religious practices. Jodi and I want to join in those efforts, and that’s why we support Chabad.

In memory of our grandparents—Holocaust survivors whose stories are archived at USC’s Shoah Foundation—and who were deeply fond of Rabbi Dov and Runya, my family and I have commissioned the Stone Family Torah at Chabad of USC. This new Torah, currently being written in Israel, will be the first USC Torah and will have a permanent home at USC Chabad. We want it to serve as a testament to our grandparents’ resilience and a source of strength, inspiring future generations of students to embrace their Jewish heritage with pride. We look forward to dedicating it next fall on campus, ensuring the light of the USC Jewish community continues to shine for decades to come.

Ava:

My first time at Chabad was for a Shabbat dinner last year. I didn’t know anyone yet, didn’t have any plans, and was just looking for a hot meal. I found a hot meal and so much more. It’s been about a year and half since that Friday night and I’ve found my best friends at Chabad. I’ve found community, mentors, and warmth. Most importantly, I have found connection with Judaism.

As a transfer student, it is notoriously difficult to come in and make friends. Chabad completely remedied that. Within the first month there was an event called JewsCruise for freshman and transfer students, and I met the majority of my best friends on that day. Besides JewsCruise, I was at Chabad events multiple times every week. Shabbat dinners, classes, challah bakes, speakers, everything. Chabad quickly became the center of my social life and my second home at USC. It was fun and exciting, but I didn’t fully appreciate the importance of Chabad until after October 7th.

In the wake of such a tragedy, after we had all witnessed the height of evil and terror, Chabad became a sanctuary. It wasn’t just a place to make friends—it was a place to find comfort, strength, and hope in the face of heartbreak. And when campus itself became a hotbed for antisemitism and hatred, the reassurance of having a supportive Jewish community felt like a shield.

In the time since October 7th, Chabad at USC has organized vigils, bringing us together to grieve and remember, and hosted educational events about Israel, empowering us with knowledge to stand firm in our identity and advocate for truth. These moments reminded us of the strength in unity and the importance of standing together. No matter what was happening in Israel, or how the fallout shaped the climate on campus, I knew Chabad would always be in our corner—ready to defend us, support us, and guide us through any challenge. It is terrifying to walk to campus next to a banner held by my classmates that says “Long Live the Student Intifada” or sit through class where my teachers spew blatant antisemitism, but Chabad gives Jewish students community even when it feels like much of campus is against us.

A memorable example of this was just last month, on the one-year anniversary of October 7th. On that day, students rallied outside USC literally celebrating the atrocities of 10/7 with loudspeakers and signs. By now, I had grown somewhat numb to the hatred that exists on campus, but considering the timing, this felt different. I couldn’t help but cry. I couldn’t fathom how my own classmates could be so cruel, and the sheer audacity of the rally left me feeling crushed. I texted Rabbi Dov an essay-length message ranting about my frustration and helplessness. True to form, he answered in 30 seconds. (I’ve come to realize that Rabbi Dov never takes more than a minute to respond to any student’s texts or calls, no matter how busy he is.) His response wasn’t just reassuring—it was highly motivating. He acknowledged my feelings, but he didn’t stop there. He challenged me to brainstorm ways that we could combat antisemitism and reach a larger audience.

This is what makes Chabad at USC so extraordinary. They don’t just provide support; they empower us to take that support and extend it outward. Chabad empowers Jewish students to empower other Jewish students, creating a ripple effect of strength and community at USC. As much as Chabad is there for the entire community, they are equally there for every individual student on a deeply personal level.

But Chabad isn’t only there for us in dark times, they support our community in all the joyous moments just as much. As a Jewish college student right now, it would be easy to think that being Jewish kind of sucks, but Chabad makes that impossible. Every Shabbat dinner, holiday, and event is packed with students and overflowing with food, warmth, and joy. This joy was especially palpable during our Pegisha trip to New York.

Our Pegisha trip to New York was a weekend that truly embodied what it means to celebrate Jewish life and community. Our group of 30+ USC students joined over 2,000 Jewish students from across the U.S. and eight other countries. From the moment we arrived, the energy was electric. We stayed with warm and welcoming host families in Crown Heights, attended thought provoking sessions that left us inspired, and danced our hearts out with thousands of other students. Pegisha wasn’t just about learning, celebrating, or exploring New York; it was about experiencing the beauty of Judaism and connecting with other Jews. I left that weekend not only with a deeper appreciation for my own Judaism, but also with a renewed sense of pride and responsibility to carry that joy back to campus. And with Chabad at USC, there is no lack of opportunities to spread and share that joy. Chabad made this transformative experience possible, and it’s moments like these that show just how much they do to enrich our lives as Jewish students.

Nearly every day there is an opportunity to get involved. Whether it be Pizza and Parsha, Sinai Scholars, or a Shabbat meal, there is always something Jewish going on at USC. College can be overwhelming, and sometimes it feels like the only things to do with your time are study or party. Chabad bridges the middle ground of something truly fulfilling. Chabad is a sanctuary at USC, and at any time we can walk into the Chabad house and know we are entering a place of friendship, community, and connection – not only with others, but with the deepest parts of ourselves. Chabad at USC makes it easy to be a proud Jew, and I am incredibly grateful.

The Chabad house – new & improved

The newly renovated Chabad House features the beautiful Victorian architecture from when the house was originally built in 1880 with state-of-the-art modern upgrades. The new Chabad House serves as a true Jewish Student Center where events take place and where students are welcome to just hang out.

With over 11,000 sq feet and many beautiful amenities, the Chabad House serves as an oasis for Jewish students needing a home and a community in a college environment that can often be challenging for Jewish students.

The space now includes a main ballroom, library, game room, sanctuary, student housing, “The Rooftop” deck, and a restaurant for a daily kosher meal-plan.

Donor spotlight:

Where are you now?

Ari: Living in LA with Ariela and three kids– Orly (8), Gabi (5) and Sammy (3). Financial advisor at Morgan Stanley in Beverly Hills.

Danny: I live in Los Angeles and work in wealth management at Morgan Stanley. I’m a financial advisor and CFP®. I’m currently engaged to my lovely fiancé Shirly.

What’s one of your favorite memories of your time at Chabad @ USC?

Ari: The first of the major shabbats in 2008 which was Shabbat 300 (now very common!). It’s amazing to see how that number grew over the years and is now at Shabbat 1000.

Danny: One of my favorite Chabad memories is my first Shabbat ever as a freshman. I met a few lifelong friends that night! Great people and such a welcoming place.

How has Chabad @ USC impacted your life?

Ari: The memories I have make me tremendously proud to be Jewish and knowing how much Dov and Runya and family affected my peers in a positive way is incredible.

Danny: Chabad @ USC has had a profound impact on my life. Dov and Runya helped me feel closer to Judaism thanks to their generosity and hospitality. During my four years at USC, Chabad was a home away from home for Shabbat Dinners and Jewish life in general. Dov and Runya are so incredibly welcoming to anybody interested in visiting Chabad @ USC

Why do you support Chabad?

Ari: Because they ensure that students can identify with their Judaism in a warm, personal way that will encourage them to continue that throughout college and hopefully for the rest of their lives. It hasn’t been this important for Jews to be proud of their heritage and traditions for many many years and the Wagners enable this to happen. Yashar Koach!

Danny: I support Chabad because they add a very important element to the college experience- community, love, delicious home-cooked food and stability. They improve the college experience for students – and Jewish students graduate feeling more connected to their Judaism. I want Dov and Runya to continue to offer this incredible community to new students who can benefit the way that I benefitted from Chabad @USC- and supporting them makes that happen!

A letter from from an alum

DO SOMETHING!!

Dear Fellow Trojan,

The last 14 months have been challenging for Jewish university students. We’ve seen the news and photos, scrolled through the online posts, and, most painfully, those of us who are parents heard directly from our sons and daughters about how they don’t feel safe, heard, accepted, or valued on campus.

We ached for something we could do to help.

We read reports of administrators who are indifferent or even hostile to the well-being of Jewish students, of how Universities were unwilling to enforce their own “free speech” rules, and of blatant antisemitism from institutions.

We were rightfully upset and sought a course of action.

Worse yet, we witnessed numerous incidents of Jewish students being physically attacked simply for being Jewish or expressing support for the State of Israel.

We were furious and demanded that somewhere, someone, do something.

The University of Southern California Campus was not spared the wave of antisemitism and anti-Zionist fever. But at USC, people did do something. People were advocates for Jewish Students, people provided resources and a safe place, and people championed and helped the school avoid much of the turmoil that engulfed campuses nationwide; people who turned a moment of crisis for Jewish students into an opportunity for the same students to grow and embrace their Jewish identity.

Those people were Rabbi Dov and Runya Wagner of Chabad at USC.

Now is your chance to act and help Jewish students in the face of such challenges by supporting Chabad at USC.

I first met Rabbi Wagner (or Rabbi Dov as everyone calls him) and his wife Runya in 2000, his and my first year on campus. In that first year, we struggled to get a minyan for Yom Kippur and fill out a table for Shabbat dinner.

But 24 years (and many kids) later, Chabad at USC has become a fixture of Jewish life on the USC campus. R’ Dov and Runya host hundreds of students for Shabbat dinner and holiday events.

They provide weekly classes, lunch & learns, kosher food, trips, guest speakers, and so much more. Most importantly, they provide a place of warmth and love that so many students turn to.

In addition, R’ Dov and Runya have spent years developing strong relationships with USC faculty and the administration so they can effectively advocate for Jewish students on campus – from ensuring the faculty is aware of major Jewish holidays when scheduling tests, to ensuring students have access to kosher food, permissions for mezuzahs on campus, policies around Jewish inclusion, and more.

When October 7 happened, the Rabbi and his family quickly stepped up to provide support for grieving and shocked students, opening their home and creating a safe space. As always, the Chabad House was open to all, regardless of denomination, belief or practice.

Similarly, when the pro-Hamas protests began, R’ Dov and Runya, levering their relationships with the University, including President Carol Folt, were able to help USC respond in a way that avoided some of the escalations that occurred elsewhere.

Moreover, when USC administrators failed to act, Rabbi Dov did not hesitate to call them out and

demand action expressly and publicly. USC heeded the Rabbi’s calls and made changes. You can see his full letter at www.chabadusc.com/letter

More importantly, during the past 14 months, Chabad at USC has remained a safe and supportive place for Jewish student, stretching whenever needed to meet the needs of a clear and noticeable uptick in renewed interest by Jewish students in learning about their heritage and embracing their Jewishness.

While Chabad at USC was ready for the past year’s challenge, this increase in activity and participation has strained its budget and financial resources. Indeed, these events occurred just as Chabad at USC was in the final stages of the renovation of the Chabad House.

Rabbi Dov and Runya Wagner stepped up when Jewish students needed them the most. Now it’s time for all of us to step up and support Chabad at USC.

Supporting Chabad at USC is how we fight back against antisemitism. It’s how we show that we will not stand by while Jewish students are threatened. When you give to Chabad at USC, you stand with Rabbi Dov, Runya, their family and their wonderful staff as they continue their mitzvah of creating a vibrant, safe, meaningful and joyful Jewish experience at the University of Southern California.

Please make your donation today by going to www.chabadusc.com/home or sending a check to Chabad at USC, 2713 Severance St. LA, 90007.

Thank you in advance for your support.

Am Israel Chai!

Uri Fleming

Gould School of Law and Marshall School of Business MBA, 2004

P.S.: If you are interested in making a significant gift in support of Chabad at USC and/or the renovated Chabad House, please reach out directly to Rabbi Dov at 310-801-3142 or chabad@usc.edu

Pegisha quote from student:

“This has been my fourth Pegisha and I can say with absolute certainty that Pegisha has changed my life. Pegisha sparked a fire in my soul that I hope to pass on to my children. The amount I’ve benefitted from this has been immeasurable.”

Ethan (‘25)

The Lubavitcher Rebbe taught that education is the cornerstone of humanity and that the Torah’s lessons can be applied for eternity.

Chabad @ USC is dedicated to educating Jewish leaders of the next generation, through popular weekly classes like Sinai Scholars, JewishU courses, and Lunch & Learns.

With about 50 students on average attending weekly classes, 2024 saw 1,850 hours of learning, and 1,440 slices of pizza consumed!

Students learn about core Jewish values, Jewish history, dealing with anti-Semitism, Jewish holidays and practices, and eternal lessons from the weekly Parsha.

With classes at the Dental School, Law School, at Chabad, and on campus, we make an effort to reach as many students as possible and develop deep and meaningful relationships for years to come.

For many students, Shabbat Dinner is the highlight of their college experience. Between 150-350 students gather weekly to celebrate community, to celebrate Shabbat, and to celebrate Jewish identity.

The room often fills up into the overflow space, and new seats need to be set up. Students mingle, meeting many like-minded Jewish students while enjoying a homemade four-course meal.

Fan-favorites include the Challah, salmon, and chicken soup. Each week has a different food-theme so things are always interesting. Popular themes include Italian Shabbat, Israel Shabbat, and Sushi Shabbat – among many others.

Holidays are just as exciting. Sukkot was filled with back-to-back events, and countless Lulav shakes. Purim saw a massive Megillah reading and party. The crowded Passover Seders were the first events to happen in the new Chabad House space.

Our annual Shabbat 1000 is scheduled for next semester and preparations for the largest Shabbat on the West Coast are already underway!