Alan J. Tichnor Residence Hall and Learning Center Dedicated in Jerusalem

During his tenure as International President of The United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism from 1989-1993, Alan J. Tichnor envisioned a special place in Jerusalem where Jewish youngsters and synagogue groups could stay while visiting or studying in Israel. In fulfillment of that dream, the Alan J. Tichnor Residence Hall and Learning Center was dedicated on Sunday, July 25.

The event, which centered on the theme “Rebuilding Jerusalem,” drew some 220 participants and featured speeches by USCJ leaders as well as tours of the new facility. The eight-story Residence Hall and Learning Center -- which includes residence rooms, lecture halls, dining facilities, a chapel and an auditorium -- is part of the USCJ’s Fuchsberg Jerusalem Center, which offers ongoing cultural and educational ;programs and activities for visiting North American Jews as well as residents of Jerusalem.

According to USCJ International President Judy Yudof, the structure, which features architectural flourishes such as rose-colored stones quarried from the building site and used to adorn the main entrance, is “truly magnificent, befitting the vision that engendered its creation.” Balconies offer panoramic views of Jerusalem -- from the rooftops of the old city, to Mount Scopus in the distance – and disclose close-up views of Independence Park and downtown Jerusalem.

Rabbi Jerome Epstein, who spoke at the dedication ceremony, paid tribute to Alan J. Tichnor, describing his dedication to Jewish life as president of his congregation, Mishkan Tefila, in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts; President of the USCJ New England Region; USCJ International President; and chairman of the Fuchsberg Center Campaign. He described him as a “visionary who led with his whole being.”

Alan’s wife Marjorie Tichnor responded in the name of the family, describing the building as an expression of Alan’s three loves: Judaism, Israel, and Jewish youth. The family then affixed a mezuzah to the entrance of the main lobby.

Rabbi James Lebeau, Director of the Fuchsberg Center, pointed out that the new building will allow the Fuchsberg Center to expand its activities even further, offering a wide selection of cultural programs in addition to its ongoing educational programs.

As part of the ceremony, Alan Hoffman, Director of the Education Department of the Jewish Agency, thanked the Tichnors and the USCJ for “one more great step in bringing young Jews to Israel on great programs.” Subsequently, Jules Gutin, Director of the USCJ Youth Department, and Rabbi Richie Lewis, Rosh Yeshiva of the Conservative Yeshiva, taught midrashim on the theme of rebuilding Jerusalem. Finally, Josh Nason, International President of USY, spoke of USY’s dedication to Israel and pledged that USY will continue to grow both in numbers and commitment to Jewish life and to Israel.

Among those in attendance were participants in USY Israel Pilgrimage as well as members of the USY Parents Trip. Also present were representatives of the Israeli Masorti Movement.