Marc Wormser (Texas A&M class of 1964) speaks with current A&M students, Ilanit Algranatti, Rachel Smet, and Dylan Mandel, about student life at Hillel. Courtesy: Sheldon Lippman

By Marilyn Lippman, Member, TJHS Board of Trustees

The Texas Jewish Historical Society (TJHS) held its 46th Annual Gathering in College Station in late April, bringing together scholars, community members, and history enthusiasts to reflect on the rich Jewish legacy of the Brazos Valley and beyond.

The weekend opened with an engaging presentation from Don Reiser, Texas A&M alum, who recounted the roots of Texas A&M Hillel, tracing back to 1916. Reiser, who practically grew up at the Hillel where his mother served as longtime director, shared vivid memories of the warmth and connection it provided to Jewish students in a small college town.

Dr. William (Bill) Bassichis, Texas A&M physics faculty, spoke about “The Legacy of Temple Freda,” the historic synagogue in Bryan. A key figure in the preservation of the building, Dr. Bassichis wove together personal experience and historical insight to show how the temple stands as a symbol of continuity and community as the City of Bryan is engaged in a renovation project to restore the Temple.

Longtime friends and local residents, TJHS members Dena Kahan and Leslie Feigenbaum offered a nostalgic and informative look at Jewish life in Bryan-College Station through the decades. They chronicled the evolution of Congregation Beth Shalom, giving attendees a personal glimpse into the congregation’s beginnings and enduring presence.

Blake Zeitman, owner of Zeitman’s Grocery Store and Deli in Bryan, shared his family’s immigration story from Ukraine to Maine, and how he honors that legacy through his business today. His story bridged past and present, showing the endurance of Jewish entrepreneurial spirit.

The significance of Jewish life at Texas A&M was further emphasized during a lively and heartwarming panel featuring former and current Aggies, who spoke of the transformative impact that Hillel had on their college years. TJHS President Joan Linares introduced the session and invited the audience to “sit back, enjoy, and get ready to hear what Hillel looks like not just as an institution, but as a community—one that continues to shape lives and create connections in the heart of Aggieland.”

Panelists included TJHS members Marc Wormser (A&M Class of 1964) and Michael Wolf (A&M Class of 1967), along with current A&M students Dylan Mandel, Rachel Smet, and Ilanit Algranatti. Mark and Michael recalled how Hillel served as their “home away from home.”

Saturday afternoon included a presentation by Dr. David Brenner on the new Jewish studies program at Texas A&M University. His remarks highlighted a growing academic commitment to Jewish scholarship in the region.

Two TJHS grant recipients, Emily Williams presented her striking photographic work documenting small-town synagogues across Texas and Dr. Gabrielle Lyle shared findings from her research on “Sisterhoods of the Southwest” and their critical role in shaping Jewish community life in the borderlands.

With a full slate of meaningful presentations, local history, and personal storytelling, this year’s Gathering offered a heartfelt tribute to Jewish life—past, present, and future—in Texas.