Latest News from Campus

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 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 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.

Hillel at Arizona State University is marking 80 years of Jewish life on campus, highlighting its role in supporting Jewish students through community programming, leadership development, and campus engagement. The organization has grown alongside the university’s Jewish population and continues to serve as a hub for religious, cultural, and social connection.

Aasia Gabbour, a graduating fourth-year student at New York University, reflected on how NYU Hillel supported her in exploring her Asian-Jewish identity. She helped lead the first-ever Asian-Jewish Shabbaton at Yale University, which brought together more than 500 students from over a dozen colleges and universities to celebrate shared identity and community.

Sophie Kalmin, a senior at Emory University, reflects on her college experience and her involvement in Jewish campus life through Hillel, including serving as Emory Hillel student president. She describes how leadership opportunities helped shape her sense of belonging on campus and strengthen her connection to Jewish life.