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Mandelbaum House in Sydney, Australia, is a Jewish residential college open to both men and women, regardless of religion or nationality, affiliated with the University of Sydney. The College accommodates approximately 34 residents from all over the world; mainly undergraduate and postgraduate students, as well as visiting academics. [1] Opened on 18 February 1996 on a site donated by The University of Sydney, it is the youngest college on campus.
Mandelbaum House is located on the Darlington side of the main campus at the University of Sydney.
The founder of the College, Mrs Rachel Lipton (née Mandelbaum) died in March 1978, aged 81. In 1918, she graduated with a BA from the University of Sydney, where she read Latin, English, History, Philosophy and Chemistry. She then taught Latin and English at several schools and subsequently obtained her MA in Latin from the University of Sydney in 1934. [2] She had been a remarkable woman for her time; a highly articulate, individualistic, forceful non-conformist who valued education and Judaic scholarship. Mrs Lipton bequeathed her estate for the construction of a college at the University of Sydney, which would be named Mandelbaum House. The college was established in memory of her parents, the Reverend Zalel and Freda Mandelbaum, who had provided spiritual leadership to a number of Australian congregations over many decades. Her second husband, Mr Harry Lipton, subsequently bequeathed his estate for Mandelbaum House as well. Mandelbaum House opened on 18 February 1996 on a site donated by The University of Sydney.
Under the terms of Mrs Lipton’s bequest, the college is intended not merely to be a place of residence for students and scholars, but also to be a focal point for Jewish studies in Australia, and for the study of Judaic thought throughout history. In keeping to this ethos Mandelbaum House hosts seminars and lectures given by prominent scholars and members of the Jewish and university community. Throughout the academic year visiting scholars from various disciplines stay on site at Mandelbaum in guest apartments.
Mandelbaum House hosts formal dinners throughout the semester for residents and guest speakers are invited to give a talk to the residents. Previous guest speakers include:
Mandelbaum House has an active alumnus that arranges reunions and events.