Chanukah arrived early at the Orthodox Union headquarters in New York as the OU celebrated a Chanukat Habayit this fall in honor of its newly renovated office space.
Held on November 11th, the invitation-only event featured a cocktail reception, guided tours of the renovated premises and remarks by OU Executive Vice President Allen I. Fagin, OU President Martin Nachimson and Moses Marx, landlord. Mr. Marx had the honor of affixing the new mezuzah and reciting the Shehecheyanu.
With the OU rapidly expanding its multi-faceted programs and hiring more staff on all levels, additional and more effectively utilized space was essential. Two years ago, the OU began extensive renovations to attain more collaborative space, a more comfortable and attractive workplace, upgraded technology and greater efficiencies in the work environment. “When we first moved into the building, most of the furniture was inherited and outdated . . . the space was not modernized,” said Mr. Fagin. “With upgraded security, more open space and natural light, new furniture and carpeting, OU staff can be proud of where they work.”
Renovations were executed without displacing the staff.
New additions to the premises, highlighted in the tours, include a mother’s wellness room, a collaborative lounge and additional small conference rooms.
“This Chanukat HaBayit . . . reflects the growing size, strength and accomplishments of the OU,” said
Mr. Nachimson.
OU officers celebrate the newly renovated OU headquarters in downtown Manhattan. From left: OU President Martin Nachimson; Moses Marx, landlord; OU Executive Vice President Allen I. Fagin, and Chair of the OU Board of Directors Howard Tzvi Friedman. Photo: Kruter Photography