Jewish Life at VCU

Originally from Israel and Ukraine, Rabbi Menachem and Daniela Lessoff moved to the U.S. after getting married in 2022—and they’ve hit the ground running ever since! The couple is thrilled to be serving the Jewish students at VCU, and their presence has brought a whole new energy to the JVCU house on Grove Avenue.

Every Friday night, they host vibrant Shabbat dinners, drawing in over 30 students, plus community members and VCU staff. It’s become the place to be for delicious food, meaningful conversation, and a real sense of belonging.

During the week, Rabbi Menachem is out on campus daily—tabling, meeting students, and building connections that have already boosted Jewish student involvement in a big way. Together, the Lessoffs have created a warm, welcoming space where students feel safe, supported, and proud to express their Jewish identity.

Their passion for their mission (shlichus) shines through, but beyond that, Menachem and Daniela bring so much heart and personality to the VCU Jewish community. When he’s not leading programs, you might find Rabbi Menachem off on a global adventure. Daniela, when not planning programs or cooking up amazing meals for students, can be found teaching preschool or getting lost in a good book.

מתוך JewishVCU.org