Latest News from Campus

Abi Schcolnik, a senior at the University of Miami and outgoing co-chair of the Hillel International Student Cabinet, shared how she helped grow the Jewish community on campus. During her time on campus, Abi expanded Shabbat dinners, collaborated with university administrators to combat antisemitism, and empowered other Jewish students to lead with pride and purpose.

University of Michigan Hillel, in collaboration with the Jewish Communal Leadership Program (JCLP) and the Jewish Community Center of Greater Ann Arbor, unveiled a new art installation celebrating Jewish resilience. Renowned visual artist Hillel Smith led a community art session, guiding participants in creating a piece that reflects the strength and unity of the Jewish community amid challenges. The installation, now a permanent fixture at Michigan Hillel, serves as a lasting tribute to the community’s enduring spirit.

Israeli singer Yuval Raphael secured second place at the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland, with her song “New Day Will Rise.” A survivor of the Nova music festival massacre, Raphael won the public vote with 297 points but placed 14th in the jury vote, resulting in a second place overall finish.

Hope Donovan, a senior at Western Michigan University (WMU), describes how she discovered belonging and purpose through her involvement with Hillel. After transferring from a small Jesuit college to WMU, she embraced her Jewish identity by leading events like a Halloween-themed Shabbat and creating art that honored her Jewish heritage. As president of WMU Hillel, Donovan advocated for Jewish students and found the confidence to express her identity on campus and in her artwork. Hope’s story is part of the ‘Dear Hillel’ series written by graduating Jewish college seniors.

Stony Brook University Hillel celebrated Jewish American Heritage Month with its third annual Big Jewish Block Party. The event featured a falafel food truck, inflatables, and a mini shuk (market), fostering community conversation and appreciation for Jewish culture and traditions among students and faculty.

Jewish students in Hillel’s global network outside of North America explore their Jewish identities and find belonging and connection in their Hillel communities. Events such as the Hillel Global Social in London bring together students from multiple countries to build relationships through shared traditions and interests. These programs highlight Hillel’s focus on empowering students to build Jewish life through meaningful, real-world experiences and connection.