Central Michigan University (CMU) Hillel hosted its third annual Jewish heritage week in celebration of Jewish life on campus. Planned in partnership between CMU Hillel and the university, the week included a talk from a Holocaust survivor, a campus-wide Shabbat dinner, and an Israeli cooking class.

Hillel Jewish University Center, which serves students in Pittsburgh, recently launched “Inside Israel,” a program at the University of Pittsburgh that brings together 20 college students for weekly, student-led discussions on Israel and international current events. Through engaging with materials such as podcasts, opinion articles, and news reports, participants explore diverse perspectives while strengthening their critical thinking skills and encouraging open dialogue on complex global issues.

The University of Florida Hillel hosted its sixth annual “Spread Cream Cheese, Not Hate” program in response to the high levels of antisemitism across college campuses. The event brought together over 500 student volunteers and collected more than 6,000 signatures on a pledge to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate.

Boston University’s Hillel and the BU Catholic Center have launched a multi-week Interfaith Learning Cohort to engage students in discussions on faith, identity, and shared values. The program aims to promote mutual understanding through guided conversations and collaborative learning, and provides a $300 stipend to participating students.

Hillels around the world commemorated International Holocaust Remembrance Day with a variety of programs and events. Hillel Guelph in Ontario, Canada focused on a week of educational programming, including museum visits, survivor testimonies, and a candle-lighting ceremony with an exhibit inspired by Yad VaShem.

Just before Winter Break, Jewish students at hundreds of college campuses came together at their Hillels to celebrate the Festival of Lights in some fun and creative ways.