General Notes

Parents of Students in the Class of 2030:

Congratulations! Your student is about to embark on an incredible journey, and we want to make sure you're connected every step of the way.

Stay connected with Class of 2030 parents by joining our WhatsApp group. It's exclusively for parents (no students), simply note it in the comments at registration and we'll add you.

Finally, follow our Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with everything we have going on.

Students in the Class of 2030, this is what you should do before you move-in:

Welcome to WashU, Class of 2030! Before you arrive on campus, take two minutes to get connected — here's how to hit the ground running

  • Text the Cha-bot and introduce yourself: Meet our friendly Cha-bot — your go-to for all things Chabad! It’s how we share updates, events, and where you’ll RSVP all semester long. Joining is easy — just text "Shalom" to 314-886-6111.

  • Join JewCrew: JewCrew is a chill way for first-year Jewish students to connect in small-group settings—led by JewSAs (upperclassman), with events, hangouts, and a group chat. It’s the perfect intro to Jewish life at WashU. [link forthcoming].

Finally, follow our Instagram!

Events

Move-In Shabbat For New Students, Parents & Families

Bear Beginings Shabbat Dinner
Friday, August 14 | Candlelighting & Davening at 6:00 pm | Grand Dinner at 7:00 pm | Chabad House, 7018 Forsyth Blvd (steps from the South 40)

Celebrate move-in weekend with a full Shabbat experience of meals, services, and connection. Students will meet new friends and mentors; parents can connect with other WashU families and the team. We expect hundreds of guests, and have invited Chancellor Andrew D. Martin and other university leaders to join.

Friday night dinner at Chabad is the largest weekly gathering for Jewish students at WashU — a vibrant, inclusive space where students of all backgrounds feel at home, from those just beginning to explore their heritage to those who have kept Shabbat their whole lives.

  • Parents and families: RSVP here for Shabbat dinner [link forthcoming].
  • New students: text MOVEINSHABBAT to 314-886-6111.

Students: If you have a Friday night dorm meeting, let your RA know you'll be attending a Jewish event so you can be excused. Ask if you can participate in the meeting on Saturday night.

Shabbat Day Open House
Saturday, August 15, 2026 | Morning Services at 10:00 am | Lunch at 12:30 pm | Open House 2:00–5:00 pm | Chabad House, 7018 Forsyth Blvd

Shabbat lunch on Saturday is a relaxed, open-house-style meal with plenty of food and friendly faces. While some of the most observant students choose to attend Shabbat day activities at Hillel, Chabad intentionally remains open and welcoming to all — a true come-as-you-are experience of warmth and hospitality. After lunch, we will remain open with drinks and snacks for visitors.

  • Parents and families: RSVP here for Shabbat dinner [link forthcoming].
  • New students: text ??? to 314-886-6111.

Welcome Week Schedule for Students: Bear Beginnings

Popsicle Pop-Up
Sunday evening, August 16 | 8:30 pm | South 40 Swamp

Beat the heat and end a long day with a sweet treat. Stop by the South 40 for a free popsicle and some good company. Canceled if is raining or below 65 degrees.

Subs, Schmooze & Axe Throwing
Monday, August 17 | 5:00–6:30 pm | Chabad House

Kick off the week with food, lawn games, and 100+ future friends. Free dinner and giveaways included.

Falafel Fest & Meet the Israel Fellow
Wednesday, August 19 | 5:30–7:00 pm | Chabad House

Meet our Israel Fellow and connect with students who share a love for the Holy Land, whether you were born there, just returned, or are simply curious. All are welcome.

Challah Bake
Thursday, August 20 | 5:00 pm | Chabad House

Join @mushkafromchabad for a hands-on challah bake. Braid, top, and bake your own loaf to bring back to your dorm, and ask about "Friday Club" while you're there.

The Official Pre-Classes Shabbat Dinner
Friday, August 21 | Davening at 6:00 pm | Grand Dinner at 7:00 pm | Chabad House

Start the semester with a warm, home-cooked Shabbat and a full house of new and familiar faces. RSVP through the Cha-bot; spots fill quickly.

Shabbat Day Lunch and Davening
Saturday, August 22 | Davening at 10:00 am | Lunch at 12:15 pm | Shabbat Lounge open until 5:00 pm | Chabad House

Come as you are for a laid-back Shabbat lunch with good food and good people. Followed by Shabbat Lounge Open House. All are welcome.

Post-Convocation Havdalah
Saturday, August 23 | Around 8:30 pm | East End

Before the new week kicks in, gather with us on the East End for Havdalah, a brief, meaningful ceremony to close out Shabbat together. The perfect way to end the weekend on a high note.

JewBQ
Monday, August 25 | 5:00 pm | Lien-Gregg Porch (above the clocktower on the South 40)

A first-day-of-classes tradition. Join Chabad and Hillel for Kosher food, great company, and a warm welcome to the school year.

Other resources

  • Do you find large-scale events overwhelming? Or do you just want a few minutes of quiet time to chat with the Rabbi or our team? We love meeting parents and/or new students. We will have a number of time-slots open for smaller meeting where we can give you our full attention. [link forthcoming]

  • There should also be an option to schedule a move-in slot on Friday to avoid needing to move on Shabbos.

  • Need a mechanical Shabbat key? This should be an option on the housing portal. If you don't see it please message Rabbi Hershey.

  • To purchase a Mezuzah, please complete this form.

  • Concerned about missing classes during Jewish holidays? See here.

Coming up

  • Parent and Family Weekend: October 30, 2026 – November 1, 2026. More information forthcoming.

(This is a draft schedule. Things will change as we get closer to the academic semester. Updated 4/23/26)