Cornell Grad Student Union Passes BDS Referendum
Canadian Hillels Boost Mental Health Services for Jewish College Students
Northwestern Will Pay $75 Million to Federal Government to End Antisemitism Investigation
Northwestern University agreed to pay the federal government $75 million over three years to restore nearly $790 million in frozen federal research funds and end a government antisemitism investigation. The university also agreed to strengthen protections for Jewish students, review international admissions, and provide training on campus norms.
UCL Reopens Investigation Into Student Who Allegedly Justified October 7th Attacks
Columbia University Rejects Three Anti-Israel Divestment Proposals
Israeli Basketball Star Yarden Garzon Finds a Home at Maryland Hillel
Israeli Artist Showcases Artwork at Rutgers Hillel Gallery
Israeli artist and Rutgers alum Peter Moshe Shamah recently exhibited his work at Rutgers Hillel’s Karmazin Gallery, exploring themes of Jewish identity and resilience. His exhibitions, including “Jewish Past/Jewish Future” and “From Darkness, the Embers of Hope,” used mixed-media collage to reflect on Jewish history, culture, and trauma. Shamah’s work aims to inspire hope and action, emphasizing the importance of preserving Jewish heritage and fostering community connections.
Accused Arsonist Pleads Guilty to Firebombing Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro’s Home
Cody Balmer pleaded guilty to attempted murder, terrorism, and arson after firebombing the Pennsylvania governor’s mansion. The attack occurred in April 2025, during the holiday of Passover, while Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were in residence. As part of a plea deal, supported by Shapiro, Balmer was sentenced to 25 to 50 years in prison.
Northwestern Hillel Celebrates Release of Last 20 Living Israeli Hostages
The Northwestern Jewish community gathered in front of the school’s Hillel building to celebrate the release of the remaining 20 Israeli hostages by Hamas. Northwestern Hillel Student President Claire Connor said, “We as a people are incomplete as long as there are Jews in captivity, so today, today is an amazing day.”
University of Louisville Temporarily Suspends SJP Chapter For Violating School Policies
The University of Louisville has temporarily suspended its Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP) chapter for violating university policies during recent protests. The suspension follows a series of demonstrations, including a “Week of Rage” from October 8–11, as well as an attempt to erect a tent encampment in violation of the school’s time, place, and manner protest guidelines. The university cited multiple disruptions and non-compliance with university rules as reasons for the suspension.
Last 20 Living Hostages Released, Reunited with Families After Two Years
Crowds in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square and Jewish communities around the world celebrated as the final 20 living hostages were released by Hamas and reunited with their families after more than two years in captivity. The hostage release was part of phase one of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which also included the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, and the withdrawal of Israel troops from many parts of Gaza.
Lewis & Clark College October 7th Memorial Vandalized, Jewish Students Harassed
A memorial in honor of the Israeli hostages in Gaza on the two-year anniversary of October 7th was vandalized multiple times at Lewis & Clark College in Oregon. The display was ripped from the ground and defaced by unidentified individuals. Jewish students were also verbally harassed and threatened during the memorial. The Dean of Students released a statement condemning the incidents.