Jewish heritage program holds conference

More than 80 students from five East Coast universities hit the Big Apple this weekend to participate in a religious awareness conference organized by the Steinhardt Jewish Heritage Program. The program was founded by Michael Steinhardt four years ago at the University. Friday morning, the 35 Penn students in attendance met with other members from State University of New York-Binghamton, Queens College, New York University and the University of Pittsburgh. "Since Penn [has] the most established program, it was beneficial for other campuses to learn ways to improve their programs," said Stephen Zelkowicz, a 1995 University alumnus and an adviser for the University chapter of the program. The students started their weekend with a luncheon, during which they listened to various professionals speak about the relationship between their job and religion. "The kids got to meet and talk about how the speakers incorporate Judaism with their jobs, discrimination and other issues in the work place," Zelkowicz said. In addition to local bankers and lawyers, David Fishoff -- a sports agent who represents Phil Simms, Lou Piniella and other athletes -- spoke to the students. "[Fishoff] explained that although most professional athletes aren't Jewish, they understand that he is observant," Zelkowicz said. "He's always traveling, but he still manages to find a synagogue wherever he is." According to Zelkowicz, the group also spoke with a analyst who works about 100 hours a week. "It was good for the students to see how these men successfully incorporate Judaism into their busy lives," he said. The group spent the rest of the weekend at Lincoln Square Synagogue in the Upper West Side of Manhattan. "On Saturday there were optional services," Zelkowicz said. "Then we broke into campuses and talked about what activities and ideas had worked in the past. Later we got together and interchanged ideas." The University's Steinhardt chapter, directed by Rabbi Ephraim Levin, was established as an alternative to other Jewish organizations at the University. "Many of the students in the other groups are already well-educated in Judaism," Zelkowicz said. "Our program is a way for students to increase their identity. It's a stepping stone for them and often they go on to become more serious about religion." Zelkowicz added that it is a laid-back group for those who are not normally exposed to many aspects of their religion. The program also supports the University through community service and other activities. "Two years ago, we had Elie Wiesel speak on campus and Irvine Auditorium was packed," Zelkowicz said. "Everyone was interested."