UF Hillel Commemorates Three Years Since October 7th
University of Rochester Hillel Breaks Ground on New Jewish Student Center
Hillels Across North America Mark Three Years Since October 7th
Thousands of Jewish students at Hillels across North America marked three years since the October 7th attacks with vigils, exhibitions, art projects, speakers, and opportunities for reflection. At Hillel of Buffalo, students participated in a remembrance gathering and heard from Nova Festival survivor Atir Vinnikov, while University at Albany Hillel created a “Wings of Hope” art installation honoring those killed at Kfar Aza. Other Hillels, including University of Chicago, Penn State, and SLO Hillel, hosted campus-wide programs that shared the stories of those affected by October 7th and created space for students to find support and comfort.
Students Find New Perspectives on Israel Through Birthright
Hillel Rio Brings Hundreds Together for Sukkot
Op-Ed: Cultivating Lifelong Learning Through Israel Education
“Nobody Wants This” Actress Jackie Tohn Discusses Jewish Identity and Career at Northwestern Hillel
Actress Jackie Tohn spoke at a Northwestern Hillel event organized by students, where she reflected on her path from child actor to television star and discussed the connection she found between her Jewish identity and her role as Esther Roklov in “Nobody Wants This,” Tohn also spoke about discovering she had the BRCA1 gene mutation, increasing her risk of breast cancer, and why she hopes to spread awareness about genetic testing.
Maryland Hillel Holds Alternative Graduation After University Commencement Rescheduled to Shavuot
After the University of Maryland moved its primary commencement ceremony to the beginning of Shavuot, Maryland Hillel quickly organized an alternative graduation ceremony for Jewish students. The ceremony brought together more than 70 graduates and their families, and included remarks from UMD President Darryll Pines and Dean for Undergraduate Studies William Cohen. Emma Steinhause, a graduating senior, said the event “turned what could have been a really difficult moment into one of the most meaningful nights of my college experience,” adding that the swift response from the Jewish community and university leadership made her feel “truly seen and supported.”
Santa Barbara Hillel to Honor Jewish Community Leaders at Annual Hall of Fame Celebration
Santa Barbara Hillel will recognize community leaders Rabbi Evan and Lori Goodman, Lindsay and Joe Pasternack, and alumnus Richard Leib, during its 23rd annual Hall of Fame Brunch. The event will bring together students, alumni, and community members to celebrate individuals whose leadership and service have strengthened Jewish student life at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), Santa Barbara City College, and the wider Santa Barbara Jewish community.
Maryland Hillel Hosts Graduation Ceremony After Commencement Falls on Shavuot
Maryland Hillel organized a graduation ceremony for more than 70 Jewish seniors and their families after the University of Maryland postponed commencement to the first night of Shavuot. In a matter of hours, Hillel staff organized a ceremony with a processional, music, speeches, and name readings. Across the country, Hillels also hosted Jewish baccalaureates, L’Chaim celebrations, and other commencement events for graduating seniors at campuses including Duke University, the University of Florida, and the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
Justice Department Files Third Lawsuit Against UCLA, Alleging Antisemitic Harassment
The U.S. Justice Department filed a third lawsuit against UCLA alleging the university has shown it is “deliberately indifferent” to antisemitic harassment of Jewish and Israeli students following the October 7, 2023 attacks and subsequent campus protests. The suit focuses on incidents tied to a 2024 anti-Israel encampment and alleges the university failed to adequately respond to reports of harassment. In response, UCLA Chancellor Julio Frenk cited actions the university has taken to confront antisemitism this past year, saying, “The suggestion that UCLA has been passive in the face of antisemitism is simply wrong.”
Suspect Arrested Following Months of Antisemitic Graffiti at San José State University
Police arrested a suspect connected to a months-long series of antisemitic and racist graffiti incidents at San José State University. The messages targeted Jewish, Muslim, Black, and Asian students and included threats of violence, swastikas, and references to terrorism. University officials say the investigation involved campus police, local law enforcement, and the FBI. The suspect faces counts of felony vandalism, felony publishing threats, and potential hate crime enhancements.