ABOUT Chabad at FIT
Chabad at FIT’s mission is to touch every Jewish student at FIT, and inspire each and every one to carry the torch of Jewish identity and continuity with pride. By promoting the unique heritage of the Jewish people among the students, staff and faculty, Chabad at FIT instills an appreciation of the Jewish people's unique contribution to society and an understanding of a one's own role in building a better world. Chabad at FIT is a home away from home; a tranquil oasis where a Jewish student can relax among friends, build lifelong relationships, and feel apart of the greater Jewish community. From the first school day to the last final exam and beyond, Chabad at FIT supports students emotionally and spiritually, enabling them to excel both academically and personally.
About the Directors
Malka and Rabbi Yakov were All-American 1960's NY high schooler's when Vietnam war protests and the winds of hippie era freedom sent them off on a search for a "better' life. Malka (then Michele) traveled to Berkley, Haight Ashberry, Israel, Afghanistan, Pakistan and India before eventually finding her way home to Chabad House at Buffalo University. There she began her Jewish and self discovery journey that led to Crown Heights, NY and the Machon Chana women's seminary. Rabbi Yakov (then Jeffrey) had a shorter trip. He encountered Chabad on campus as an engineering student at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio. Chabad came to the rescue after a near fatal overdose of physics, biology, chemistry and mathematics. Yakov's spiritual journey also led him to Crown Heights, then on to the Rabbinical College of New Jersey and eventually the Central Lubavitcher Yeshiva where he received his Rabbinical ordination.
Soon after their marriage, Malka and Yakov set out to develop and direct campus Chabad Jewish student centers at Buffalo State College, University of South Florida, University of Miami, SUNY at Rockland and FIT. Malka is currently in the front lines at FIT, engaged daily with students and faculty. Yakov currently plays a supportive role jointly leading Shabbat and holiday programs.
Malka and Yakov, are the parents of ten wonderful children and a horde of delightful grandchildren.
