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The Library cafe was filled with the aroma of freshly brewed Starbucks coffee as students sat and chattered about assignments. Jenna Weintraub, on the other hand, smelled of a sweet floral perfume. She was dressed comfortably in some light washed jeans, a pair of Timberlands, and an oversized cream cable knit sweater. Her hair, which she claims is the Jewish in her, is naturally curly and frizzy, but was kept tamed in a top knot and a head wrap. She shared that she was exhausted.
“It was 3 A.M., and I was still playing candy crush after two hours!” she exclaimed, laughing as she shared a fun fact about herself. Jenna was not only a college advocate for Israel, but a cheery, 19 year-old who enjoyed the smallest things in life.
Jenna, who prefers to be called Jen, was born and raised in Southern California. She has lived out her life not only as a leader, but also as someone who gives more than she receives. “I was a Girl Scout for 10 years and that really helped me develop leadership potential growing up.” she mentioned. It was then she mentioned her younger sister, Maya Weintraub.
“She has inspired me for Pro-Israel advocacy. She’s been a great leader, getting involved and taking initiative. She’s really inspired me to do the same.” Maya said passionately. “And I want to follow in her footsteps because she’s an amazing leader, and it’s inspiring to watch her in her element.”
Jen’s family strongly embraces Judaism as a part of their lives, and she noted that her grandfather was a Holocaust survivor. “He’s the love of my life and the cutest man. He really inspires me in everything that I do.” After graduating from the New Community Jewish High School in Southern California, Jen realized how important community service was, and that she could incorporate raising awareness about what is happening in Israel through the Duchesne program. Jenna has continued to demonstrate her leadership in various ways since she’s been on campus. The school’s Jewish Student Association wasn’t very vocal on campus. “I realized it needed to change, and I needed to get more students involved whether they’re Jewish or not. After a year, I decided to get in touch with SUNY Purchase and that has a huge Jewish community. I felt like this would benefit our college.”
After hard work and dedication, Jen was able to make Manhattanville’s Jewish Student Association a part of Hillels of Westchester. “For our campus to be a part of the Hillels of Westchester is a big deal because we’re now nationally known as one of the safest campuses for Jewish students,” she said rather proudly. She was now sitting with her legs crossed. “Now we have Shabbat dinners. Jewish community speakers from all over come and speak about serious topics. This hasn’t been done at Manhattanville before.”
With that she is right. The Jewish Student Association has had events occurring every month. Julia Furlipa, a sophomore and a close friend to Jen, admires her determination and caring personality. “I have seen Jen evolve as a leader. She knows what she wants and she goes for it!” she said enthusiastically. “She is a very caring person and is able to attract many people and help them achieve their goals.” Julia has been a part of the Jewish Student Association events and has been one of Jen’s biggest supporters.
Recently, Jen invited students to participate in Shabbat dinner where they served sushi. According to her, they serve different food each time. Many students were non-Jewish and simply enjoyed learning about Judaism. Around fifteen students sat around a long table with bread and grape juice in the center. Everyone was polite, talkative, and willing to teach those of who weren’t Jewish the importance of Shabbat. “It’s about unity, being together with those you love.” Jen stated as she reminisced on the past Shabbat dinner. “What I love is that when people come, they aren’t shy or try to keep to themselves because they didn’t know Jewish culture. They just dive in which is what Hillel and the rest of us Jewish students want other Manhattanville students to do. So far we only have a few students willing to learn something new.”
Besides her leadership work, Jenna has also personally attended national events in the U.S. and Israel with her family. AIPAC (American Israel Public Affairs Committee) focuses on promoting the relationship between the U.S. and Israel. “To be in a room with Israel’s finest, such as the Prime Minister, is such an honor and so inspiring. Every year I’m reminded how much I want to be a global leader for Israel,” she said.
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