Beth David Synagogue’s Saturday, February 14, luncheon speaker will be Brian T. Rose, Binghamton University’s vice president of student affairs. His topic will be “The History and Current State of Jewish Belonging at Binghamton University.”
“When it comes to understanding what it is that attracts an ever-growing number of Jewish students to Binghamton University, Vice President of Student Affairs Brian T. Rose is the person to ask,” organizers say, “and we are delighted to have him as our February Beth David Shabbat Luncheon guest speaker. When compared to the elite universities that are the center of attention around the question of Jewish student life, Binghamton University is a relatively young institution. And yet, as Brian Rose points out, it is arguably the premier public university in the state where more than 20 percent of the entire Jewish population of the United States lives. Binghamton has significant history and an important role to play in preserving the promise of America for Jewish students.” 
Rose will explore the history of Jews in American higher education and the specific history of Binghamton University. He will also describe current efforts at the university to preserve and foster “a strong sense of belonging” for Jewish students, as well as for alumni, faculty and staff. “I also will speak candidly,” Rose adds, “about the challenges of doing so as a secular public university that must equally provide a sense of belonging for all of our students.” 
Rose has served as vice president of student affairs at Binghamton University since January 2008, and oversees both student affairs and auxiliary services. Before his appointment at Binghamton, he spent 17 years at Rutgers University, where he served in student affairs, university counsel and central administration. He obtained his undergraduate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in history and international relations, and his law degree from Georgetown University. He began his professional career as an attorney in private practice before transitioning to higher education. In addition to his role as vice president for student affairs, Rose teaches a graduate course in higher education law within BU’s College of Community and Public Affairs, and has also led undergraduate seminars in “First Amendment Law,” “Higher Education Policy,” “Campus Planning and Privacy Law.”
“Brian Rose will address a topic that is of crucial importance,” organizers say. “Those of us who know Brian can attest to what a gifted speaker he is. Join us to benefit from his expertise and to share your questions and concerns!”
Beth David’s luncheon speaker series takes place the second Saturday of the month after Shabbat morning services and is open to the community. People are encouraged to attend the morning service, which begins at 9:30 am. There is no charge for the luncheon. Since the monthly series’ continuation depends on the generosity of contributors, Beth David welcomes donations to the Luncheon Fund in order to keep the program going. Donations, as well as sponsorships, can be made in honor of, or in memory of, someone, or to mark a special occasion. Those wishing an acknowledgment to be sent to the person being honored, or to the family of someone being remembered, can indicate that, along with the necessary information. Donations can be sent to Beth David Synagogue, 39 Riverside Dr., Binghamton, NY 13905, Attention: Luncheon Fund.