Jewish Community Partners

 With a standing-room-only crowd and much fanfare, the newly renovated Morris S. Fogelman Jewish Student Center officially opened for business on Sunday, September 8. 

Attended by community leaders, rabbis and donors, the event celebrated 61 years of a Jewish presence on the U of M campus, acknowledged the tireless work of past leaders, and celebrated a $1.1 million  renovation of the facility, which has stood on the corner of Midland and Brister for 40 years.  

The special ceremony was kicked off with a meaningful mezuzah hanging and blessing by Rabbi Joel Finkelstein assisted by donor Joe Roberts.  Guests gathered around to witness the moment before returning to their seats for the remainder of the program.  

“Since this building opened in 1984, it has been a Jewish home away from home to hundreds of Jewish students and faculty who are part of the University of Memphis family, “said Scott Notowich, Chair of Memphis Jewish Federation. “It has also served as a gathering place for Rhodes College Jewish students and other college students in the Memphis area.  And equally as important, it has proudly stood as a positive Jewish presence for the entire University of Memphis community. “ 

Mr. Notowich also stated that “The building was dedicated to community leader and philanthropist Morris Fogelman in 1999 – in recognition of his role in securing the site and helping to raise the funds needed for construction costs.”  

Mr. Notowich gratefully acknowledged the important partnership between the Jewish community and university of Memphis and introduced Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs, Melinda Carlson, to say a few words. 

Ms. Laura Linder, President & CEO of Jewish Community Partners stepped to the podium to honor those involved in the vision and execution of the renovation making special mention of JCP team member Phyllis Abraham who led the project.  “This is someone who gets the job done,” said Linder, “we would never be where we are today without the leadership of Phyllis Abraham.” 

Ms. Linder acknowledged the building committee which included Jeff Bronze, Hal Fogelman, Scott Klazmer, Jimmy Linder, Livio Saharovici and Mike Weiss (of blessed memory).  She also recognized the generosity of donors who contributed to the building project.  They include Wendy and Avron Fogelman, The Great Oaks Foundation, the Herbert Shainberg Foundation, Saralyn and Danny Weiss, LR and Peggy Jalenak, Hal Fogelman, the Goldsmith Foundation, Jennifer and Joe Roberts, Susan and Alan Kosten, Alla and Nathan Lubin, Elaine Minor and Marty Kelman.   

“This building, this beautiful home for our college students is a Fogelman family legacy,” said Ms. Linder. “Started by Morris, endowed by Bobby and now further strengthened by a lead gift from Wendy and Avron.” 

Mr. Fogelman then stepped forward to symbolically present his check for $500,000 toward this effort.  With smiles all around, Hal Fogelman spoke on behalf of the family saying “This occasion gives us the opportunity to reflect on the examples and legacies we have been fortunate enough to receive.  First from our grandparents, as today we honor the memory of our grandfather, Morris Fogelman, who was the first person to pledge his support to purchase the land on which this building stands; and who, along with Mr. Harry Samuels, who is here today, and many others saw the building’s construction completed.”  He continued, “Our grandparents’ legacy of community involvement and philanthropy has been built upon and taken to new heights by the generation of our family that includes my late Uncle Bobby and Aunt Martha, my Aunt Gail, and my parents Avron and Wendy Fogelman which brings us to today.” 

Mr. Fogelman continued stating “my parents Avron and Wendy Fogelman provided the lead gift for the renovation of this beautiful Morris S. Fogelman Jewish Student Center that we are dedicating today, and that everyone can take immense pride in.” 

The program concluded with members of the Fogelman family coming forward to say a brief prayer and officially opening the building with the cutting of a ribbon by Avron Fogelman and his grandson Josh.   

Fundraising for this transformational campaign continues and personalized recognition tiles can be purchased.  CLICK HERE to learn more and to be part of the future of the Morris S. Fogelman Jewish Student Center.