In this op-ed, Jon Falk, Vice President of Hillel International’s Israel Action and Addressing Antisemitism Program, reflects upon how Jewish students are leading campus efforts to combat antisemitism on campus. Students are organizing educational events, advocating for policy changes, and representing Jewish voices in student government. Hillel supports these critical student-led efforts by providing resources, leadership training, and a welcoming Jewish community.

Hillel International’s Senior Vice President of Jewish Education, Community, and Culture Rabbi Ben Berger and Hillel International’s Senior Director of the Meyerhoff Center for Jewish Experience Mollie Feldman, share insights on strengthening Jewish communities on campus through three pathways: becoming, belonging, and building. Each of these frameworks offer a way for Jewish students to explore their identity, deepen their connection to community, and engage in leadership. By focusing on students’ need in each of these areas, Hillel aims to create a stronger, more inclusive Jewish presence on campus, say Berger and Feldman.

In a recent update, Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International, discussed the organization’s work to combat antisemitism and empower Jewish student leadership. He highlighted key initiatives, including the Northeast Hillels A Cappella Competition and the Hillel International Israel Summit, as well as Hillel’s global growth. Lehman emphasized these efforts as essential to creating a strong Jewish campus community for students.

Cornell Hillel is working towards a new building to enhance Jewish life and community on campus. The new facility, which will be the first-ever stand-alone Hillel at the Ivy League school, will provide dedicated space for religious services, cultural events, and student engagement, further supporting the needs of the university’s growing Jewish student community.

Northwestern’s annual MegaShabbat, organized by Northwestern Hillel with partnership from Chabad, brought together nearly 500 students and community members for a lively Shabbat celebration. The event featured an acapella performance; a mocktail hour; Shabbat services for Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox students; and a kosher meal, offering a meaningful and enjoyable experience for all attendees.

Danny Wolf, a 7-foot Jewish basketball star at the University of Michigan, is gaining attention as a potential NBA draft pick. Wolf embraces his Jewish identity on and off the court, representing Israel and winning a silver medal in the Under-20 European Championships in 2023.