Rabbi Nissen Mangel Makes 1st Donation for Oholei Torah Rabbinical Campus

Q: What conversation between a rabbi and his grandson launched a multi-million dollar campus before the property was even secured?

It was the exchange between Rabbi Nissen Mangel and his grandson after they spotted a “School Building For Sale” sign near Bedford Avenue and Eastern Parkway in Crown Heights. According to Oholei Torah’s account, that brief moment in the car led to a follow-up conversation significant enough that Rabbi Mangel decided to make the very first donation toward the yeshiva’s new Rabbinical Campus, even before the purchase of 402 Eastern Parkway had officially closed. His early commitment effectively helped launch fundraising for what is now a major multi-million-dollar expansion. What is publicly confirmed so far is the setting and the result: the sign, the conversation with his grandson, and Rabbi Mangel’s immediate decision to give. The institution has said he is expected to share the full story behind that discussion, but the exact words of the conversation have not yet been publicly detailed. The campus itself is a major project for Oholei Torah, which is marking its 70th year. The newly acquired property totals about 58,000 square feet, with room to expand, and is intended to serve as a dedicated center for advanced Torah study and rabbinical training for hundreds of Lubavitcher students.

3 articles · Updated · Anash.org - Good News · Jun 21

Rabbi Nissen Mangel became the first donor to Oholei Torah’s new Rabbinical Campus, the school said in a June 20 report.
A “School Building For Sale” sign near Bedford Avenue and Eastern Parkway prompted the commitment before the property deal had closed.
Mangel recounted the decision in a video, describing a conversation with his grandson during the drive-by that led to the pledge.
The donation marks an early fundraising step for Oholei Torah as it advances plans for the new rabbinical campus.