Craving a space for connection and exploration of Jewish life? The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life stands before you. This isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant hub for students of all backgrounds.
The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life officially opened November 11. The opening was celebrated with a dedication ceremony. Over 350 people attended.
The ceremony began with affixing a mezuzah. A shofar was blown. These traditional acts symbolized a new beginning.
Edward H. Rosen’s dedication to community service fueled the center’s creation. He wanted a place for forums and lectures. His friend Alan Slifka donated $1 million. Howard Gittis pledged additional funds. Richard J. Fox also contributed.
The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life is a 10500 square foot building. It features a kosher cafe and rooftop garden. There is also a Judaic Reading Room. The auditorium serves as a dining room. The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life also has a living room. State-of-the-art technology ensures connectivity.
Phil Nordlinger calls it a home away from home. The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life welcomes all students. Interfaith gatherings are common. Discussions and football-watching parties take place here.
The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life fosters Jewish life. The Philadelphia Jewish Archives Collection arrived at Temple University Libraries. A new director joined Temple’s Feinstein Center for American Jewish History.
Craig Blackman had the honor of affixing the mezuzah. His parents assisted him. His family’s legacy is forever etched in the Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life. Their names are inscribed on the entry walls.
Megan Baumel said the building’s opening opened community doors. Senator Arlen Specter called it a great renewal. Leonard Barrack saw it as a center for dialogue.
Edward H. Rosen was deeply involved in Philadelphia’s Jewish community. He was president of Raymond Rosen & Co. He also led the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia. He helped streamline the agency’s structure. Rosen guided the group’s first Jewish population study.
Visiting Poland and Israel moved him deeply. He took on an extra leadership role.
President Ronald Reagan appointed Rosen to the United States Holocaust Memorial Council. He helped design the memorial.
Edward H. Rosen passed away in 2014. His legacy lives on. He was remembered as bigger than life. He warmed people with his energy and jokes.
The Edward G. Rosen Center for Jewish Life stands as a testament to his vision. It is a place where Jewish life thrives. All students are welcome. The center is located at 1441 W. Norris St. in Philadelphia. Contributions can be made there.