New Center for Jewish Students in Kansas is a Home Away From Home

A fifty-foot mural, a massive glowing menorah, indoor swings, a serene waterfall, and a kosher commercial kitchen — the new Chabad House at KU is not just a building. It’s a statement: Jewish life is thriving in Kansas’ biggest university.

The journey to this moment began twenty years ago, when Rabbi Zalman and Nechama Tiechtel moved to Lawrence, Kansas, to Jewish students at University of Kansas and Northeast Kansas. They started in a small duplex, gradually expanding it over the years. Eventually, it became clear that a larger, purpose-built space was needed. One year ago, four homes on a single property were demolished to make way for the $6 million, 10,000-square-foot building, made possible by lead donor Bob Cutler and the Rohr Family Foundation.

Despite its immense size, the new Chabad Center for Jewish Life is designed to feel like a home. “We really wanted it to feel like someone’s living room,” Rabbi Tiechtel said, noting the warm wood tones and thoughtful layout that create an inviting atmosphere for students. A fifty-foot mural by renowned British-Israeli artist Solomon Souza — known for painting the shutters of Jerusalem’s Machane Yehuda market — blends Kansas imagery like sunflowers and wheat with Jewish symbols, while a towering menorah out front lights up in a multicolored array. In the back, the Serenity Garden features a waterfall and firepit for reflection and relaxation.

Inside, every space has a purpose. The glass-walled synagogue welcomes first-time visitors, and the ceiling’s wave design draws the eyes upward. The student lounge and dining hall connect to the city’s first kosher commercial kitchen, and the second-floor Neshama Lounge features swings and a quiet space to relax. Twenty-four hospitality suites accommodate visiting students, alumni, and other guests.

“It’s a symbol of home and inclusion for students here,” said senior Adina Thompson. She has been involved with Chabad since her freshman year — with the Tiechtels actually encouraging her to come to the school. She joined the leadership team as a sophomore and has helped plan events and coordinate outreach. “The fact that we have such a space is definitely a deciding factor for students applying to study here.”

Junior Brenna Gross added that the new Chabad House feels “not just like a home away from home, but home itself.” When she arrived as a freshman, she struggled to find community, but Chabad quickly became a place she felt comfortable. As a Freshman Engagement Intern, Brenna now helps introduce new students to events like the annual Challah bake and arranges dorm care packages. “The new space is spacious and welcoming — there’s room for everyone to stay and engage.” 

On Sunday, November 2nd, where 450 students, alumni, donors, and community members turned out for the grand opening.. “If anyone ever tells you they don’t believe in miracles, bring them here,” said Rabbi Tiechtel at the event. “Just one year ago, this was a pile of dirt. Today, it’s a living, breathing Jewish home.” Nechama Tiechtel added, “This house has meant one thing for thousands of Jewish students — family.”

The program included moving reflections from alumni, parents, and special guests, including Rabbi Avi Weinstein, COO of Chabad on Campus International; Dr. Douglas Girod, Chancellor of the University of Kansas; and Scott Schwab, Secretary of State. Donor Bob Cutler described the building as “a living expression of what it means to ‘do Jewish.’”

Since its opening, the Chabad House has become a hub for students. “The Shabbat meal ends at 9:00 — and students are hanging out well past midnight,” said Rabbi Tiechtel. “They’re playing pool, sitting on the couch, talking. It’s a game changer.”