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505 Days: Omer Shem Tov’s Story of Survival
Join the Centennial Institute and Colorado Christian University for CCU for Israel, featuring Omer Shem Tov.
On October 7, 2023, 21-year-old Omer Shem Tov was taken hostage by Hamas forces at the Nova Music Festival. After 505 days in captivity, Omer finally came home. Since his release, he has made it his mission to share his story of survival and resilience, and to tell the world the truth about what is happening in Gaza.
CCU for Israel
505 Days: Omer Shem Tov’s Story of Survival
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm MT
Anschutz Student Center
Colorado Christian University
8787 W. Alameda Ave.
Lakewood, CO 80226
All attendees will be subject to a security screening. Bags will not be allowed in the venue.
This event has been made possible with generous support from the Richmond American Foundation.
MEDIA CREDENTIALING: While members of the media are welcome to attend our events, they are not allowed inside university buildings or facilities for the purpose of reporting unless they have received prior approval in writing from the Communications and Creative Services Department. For more information on how to apply for a media credential, please email centennial@ccu.edu.
About Omer Shem Tov
Omer Shem Tov is a survivor of the October 7 Nova Music Festival massacre and a former hostage held captive by Hamas in Gaza for 505 days. Abducted during the attack, he endured prolonged captivity under brutal conditions – fighting not only to survive, but to remain human. In captivity, Omer chose faith over fear. Through a deep connection to God, inner discipline, and gratitude, he embraced positivity as an act of resistance – strengths that continue to guide his life. Today, Omer speaks with honesty and purpose, blending testimony with reflections on resilience, responsibility, and mindset. His message is not only about survival, but about how to live – choosing light, meaning, and life again and again.
