Jewish Life at Duke

Proof that Shabbat dinner at the Freeman Center brings people together — sometimes for life. MAZEL TOV to Class of '22 alumni Sophie (former Duke Jewish Student Union (JSU) president and JLD Advisory Board member!) and Sam on their engagement — we love a Jewish Life at Duke love story! 💙✡

There's nothing better than celebrating a huge accomplishment with friends and family. 💙 We can't believe it's already been a week since we celebrated the class of 2026 at the Duke Jewish Baccalaureate ceremony and we can't wait to see what's next for these incredible graduates! 🎉

Parents, family members, and loved ones blessing their graduating students. 🥹💙 At our Jewish Baccalaureate Ceremony for the Class of 2026, parents and loved ones placed their hands on the heads of their graduates and recited the Priestly Blessing (Birkat HaKohanim), which dates back to the 7th century BCE, over 2,700 years ago! Back then, the blessing was likely worn as an amulet, a hope for protection from the wearer.

What a sweet and meaningful moment to witness the love, pride, and gratitude in the room 💙

Mazel tov, Class of 2026! 💙🎉 What an honor to celebrate you and all you've contributed to our Jewish community at the Duke Jewish Baccalaureate Ceremony!