This Sukkot, the Kraft Center sukkah was a place for gathering, celebrating, and connecting across the Columbia/Barnard community.
Throughout the week, the sukkah was open to students and faculty to eat, study, and celebrate the holiday. We hosted holiday and Shabbat meals, a first-years dinner, a dinner for faculty, movie night for undergrads, and a challah-baking event with Challah for Hunger.
One highlight was a conversation with Julie Menin, Speaker of the New York City Council, representing the 5th District and the first Jewish Speaker of the Council, in conversation with Professor Ester Fuchs. Speaker Menin shared her journey into public service, which began in New York City in the aftermath of 9/11, her work fighting antisemitism, her Jewish faith, and what she loves about serving New Yorkers. Students (a mix of undergrads and SIPA grad students) asked thoughtful questions across a wide range of topics.
We were grateful to welcome so many members of the Columbia/Barnard community into the sukkah and to celebrate Sukkot together!
