Chabad Lounge is First-Ever Jewish Space on Utah Campus

For the first time in 175 years, Jewish students at University of Utah have a space to call their own. Just a few steps away from campus and right near Greek Row, the Mel Meister Chabad Lounge is now hosting Torah classes, Shabbat dinners, and late-night hangouts.

In a state like Utah, home to only an estimated 5,000 Jews — 0.2% of its population — community and Jewish pride are vital for growth and continuity, and each new development is a turning point. “This space is a huge milestone for Jewish life in Utah,” said Henry Rade, a senior studying entrepreneurship. “There isn’t a very big Jewish community in the state, so having a visible presence on campus really matters. It’s going to attract more and more Jewish students.”

About two years ago, Rabbi Moshe and Sarahle Nigri arrived in Salt Lake City to establish Chabad on campus. “I remember our first events — there were maybe ten students,” recalled Avi Levey, a senior studying finance. “Now, when you walk into a Chabad event or class, you’ll see students of all ages and backgrounds. At the welcome-back barbecue this semester, we had about eighty students.”

With the Jewish student community on campus growing rapidly, the Nigris needed a space of their own. Local philanthropist Adam Meister offered his support towards the vision for a student lounge — something that generations of Jewish students never had access to.

Outfitted with sofas, Wi-Fi, a fridge stocked with drinks and snacks, and a game room with a PlayStation, the lounge is a comfortable space for students. “We also have a classroom for one-on-one learning and weekly Torah courses — which opens up into the lounge for larger events,” said Rabbi Nigri.

On September 3rd, more than one hundred students, parents, faculty, and community members turned out for the ribbon cutting. Mayor of Salt Lake City Erin Mendenhall and Utah University President Taylor Randall attended, among other prominent figures from the school. “I was blown away — there were so many people that came out to celebrate,” Avi Levey said. “Never in 175 years of this university has there been a Jewish building on campus. Now, if you live in the dorms, you can actually walk to it on Shabbat.”

For students like Avi Levey, the lounge is a place to connect with their heritage and build lasting friendships. “Even the simple things — like enjoying some homemade matzah ball soup at Chabad — it means a lot,” he said. “Being able to celebrate Jewish life right here on campus with the community Chabad has built is really special.”