Opinions

In September 1864, in the midst of the Civil War, something remarkable happened in Leavenworth.

I have had the privilege over the past two years to serve as the president of the Jewish Faculty Staff Council at the University of Kansas, one of ten faculty staff councils for those based primarily on the Lawrence campus.

As the point person for our local PJ Library, I am proud to foster Jewish community everywhere. Playgrounds, pools, splashpads, coffee shops, community centers and the occasional escape room or movie theater: Jewish life happens wherever there are Jews.

A few weeks ago, I was given the incredible honor of addressing the University of Kansas School of Professional Studies graduates, families and supporters at the Master’s Hooding Ceremony at KU Edwards Campus.

I went to the University of Kansas with Sarah Milgrim. Sarah was present throughout much of my Jewish life at KU, and though we were never close, I did admire her.

Last Wednesday, the Jewish Community Relations Bureau | American Jewish Committee team gathered at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum to host a program for nearly 20 elected officials representing various levels of government. Our goal was to illustrate for them, through a tour of the museum, an overview of history, and a panel discussion, the historic and enduring connection of the Jewish people to the land of Israel.

My favorite day of the year is the first day of summer.

We are hurtling through May toward the summer. Brace yourself, parents.

On April 30, I sent this letter to our [Kansas] Junior Senator Dr. Roger Marshall. As of publication, I have not received a reply. I feel the Jewish community should know.

Since my experience with the air raid sirens going off my second day in Israel, I have a new obsession: bomb shelters.