For generations, University Synagogue has been a place of vibrant Jewish life, connection, and belonging - a community where we come together to learn, worship, and support one another. We are deeply grateful to each one of you who calls University Synagogue home, and we cherish the vibrant community we have built together. 

As we look to the future, we have a remarkable opportunity to ensure that our synagogue continues to thrive from generation to generation (l’dor v’dor).

When we moved into our current home twenty years ago, it was the perfect fit for our growing congregation of over 600 households.

Since then, however, the world has changed. Like many Jewish communities, we have navigated major shifts, including the 2008 recession, the 2020 pandemic, and a national trend of reduced synagogue affiliation. At the same time, we continue to face the financial challenges of maintaining a facility and infrastructure designed for a much larger congregation. Though we need less space, our community’s spirit, dedication, and strength remain as vibrant as ever.

After thoughtfully exploring the best ways to ensure our congregation's future, we are excited about the opportunity to create a right-sized, welcoming space that will allow us to grow, connect, and thrive for generations to come. A new home will allow us to embrace a bright future, maintaining all the necessary spaces while strengthening our financial foundation.

To make this vision a reality, we have made the important decision to sell our current property and transition to a new home - one that better fits our needs while providing long-term financial security.

This decision was made after deep reflection, thoughtful discussion, and a commitment to securing a strong and sustainable future. We considered many other possibilities, and determined that this is our best option. By making this move, we can create a space that better serves our community while also establishing a financial foundation that allows us to grow, innovate, and flourish for generations to come.

Come Dream with Us! We envision a warm, welcoming space thoughtfully designed for our services, celebrations, educational settings, and community gatherings. It will reflect our traditions while providing a solid financial future, a home where we can continue to learn, connect, and grow together.

What Happens Next?

This transition will take over a year, and we are focused on making it seamless. 

We are exploring potential new locations that will provide everything we need, including a sanctuary, a social hall, a preschool, and gathering spaces. We will be hosting a series of informational meetings, both in-person and online, where we can share more details and hear your thoughts.

• Zoom Discussion, Wednesday, March 26 at 12noon CLICK to REGISTER
• Zoom Discussion, Wednesday, March 26 at 7p.m. CLICK to REGISTER
• Discussion after Shabbat Services, Friday, March 28 at 7p.m. CLICK to REGISTER

This is more than just a move; it’s an opportunity to build something beautiful together and ensure that our synagogue and schools continues to thrive for future generations.

We invite you to Come Dream with US as we embark on this journey.

Questions?

We know you may have questions, and we want to provide as much clarity as possible. We have created a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page where you can learn more about:

● Why this transition is happening

● What our new home will include

● How this move strengthens our financial future

● What happens next in the process

GENERAL FAQ LINK               PRESCHOOL PARENT FAQ LINK                B'NAI MITZVAH FAQ LINK

If you have any questions or would like to speak with our leadership team, please don’t hesitate to reach out:

EMAIL MARK BREGMAN, PRESIDENT                         EMAIL MYKA THOMPSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR