Mayanot’s Jerusalem campus marks new chapter for global Jewish learning

Drivers slowed along Sderot Ben Tzvi on Monday afternoon, curious about the crowds spilling onto the roadway outside a gleaming new building draped in red banners. Moments later, major donors Igor Tulchinsky and Yitzchak Mirilashvili joined leading Chabad rabbis from around the world in cutting a ceremonial ribbon, officially dedicating the Mayanot World Center—a $20 million campus that will serve as the new home of the Mayanot Institute of Jewish Studies.

For Rabbi Kasriel Shemtov, Mayanot’s executive director, and Rabbi Shlomo Gestetner, the institution’s dean, the moment was the fulfillment of a decades-long vision.

“Mayanot was established to give young adults the ability to come to Israel and Jerusalem to study about Jewish heritage and become knowledgeable Jews with a strong identity,” Gestetner told JNS. The goal, he said, is to cultivate “Jewish leaders of the future.”

In the same conversation, Shemtov emphasized Mayanot’s focus on identity-building. “Many go back to their communities and the world—as the Rebbe wanted—to become leaders with the passion and the gift that keeps giving,” he said. “They integrate into their communities, businesses and families, who see the excitement which they take to the masses and inspire.”

‘A dream come true’

Hundreds of guests filled the campus courtyard for the first of two receptions following the dedication of the executive offices and learning centers. Three current students—Mayer Weiss, Ari Kuptchik and Meir Solomon—shared their enthusiasm for the program.

“I like the way they run it and the great programs,” said Weiss, 18, of Miami. Kuptchik, also 18, called the experience “eye-opening,” adding, “They really push things forward.” Solomon, 18, from Los Angeles, who grew up in a Modern Orthodox family with Chabad roots, said he came to deepen his understanding of Chasidut. All three plan to attend college or start work after their year of study.

The new campus will significantly expand Mayanot’s capacity. In the past year alone, more than 400 students from 16 countries and 94 universities took part in 85 weekly classes, with thousands more accessing online learning. The upgraded facility will allow for immersive study programs, Israel-advocacy seminars, educational tours, internships and volunteer opportunities.

Shemtov believes the center will fill a crucial gap for young Jews seeking continued learning after programs like Birthright Israel. “What happens on day 11?” he asked. “We can facilitate for those who want a deeper look into Israel and their heritage—to take it to the next level.”

A state-of-the-art home for Torah

Both Shemtov and Gestetner highlighted that all of this takes place in a modern, beautifully designed space. “Many people feel that studying in a beit midrash means compromising—of food and physical place,” Shemtov said. “Here is one of the most gorgeous yeshivas. The upgraded, state-of-the-art building goes with the vision of the Rebbe, who wanted to transform the world for holier and better purposes.”

Guests touring the facility shared that sense of awe. Davida Zimble of Boston and Rechavia admired the gym, mikvah and dining hall housed in the renovated structure, built atop the former Vaisra Itzhak Assisted Living Facility. “A place of Jewish learning doesn’t have to be decrepit!” she quipped.

The World Center features a spacious Beit Midrash, rooftop event space overlooking Jerusalem, dormitories with kitchenettes, a meditation garden, and a dedicated Lone Soldier Center supporting IDF service members.

As the sun set, guests gathered for a mincha prayer service and a rooftop reception accompanied by live music, celebrating the launch of a campus aimed at shaping Jewish life for decades to come.

“As Jews face unprecedented challenges worldwide—from college campuses to small town America—Mayanot empowers the next generation with Jewish pride, confidence and clarity of purpose,” said Yaakov Cohen, chairman of the board.

The post Mayanot’s Jerusalem campus marks new chapter for global Jewish learning appeared first on JNS.org.