Jewish life at Michigan Technological University is experiencing a revival through Michigan State University Hillel’s regular Shabbat gatherings which offer students a strong sense of community and tradition. With a small but growing Jewish presence on campus, these efforts create an inclusive space for students to connect, celebrate their heritage, and deepen their Jewish identity. In addition to Shabbat dinners, upcoming initiatives include challah-baking lessons, a Passover seder, and a campus-wide event featuring a Holocaust survivor.

During Super Bowl weekend, more than 100 Black and Jewish college student-athletes gathered at Xavier University in New Orleans for the second annual Black-Jewish Unity Summit. Held in partnership with Hillel International, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and Robert Kraft’s Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (FCAS), the event aimed to strengthen connections between the two communities. It featured a panel discussion with notable athletes, small-group conversations on their roles in combating hate, and the announcement of a microgrant initiative to support future collaborations.

Philadelphia Eagles cheerleader Elana Horowitz, an alumna of the University of Maryland who was very active in Hillel, has brought Jewish joy and traditions to the Super Bowl champions.. Her deep connection to her Jewish identity helped her successfully make the Eagles cheer squad — she performed an Israeli dance during her audition. On Hanukkah, Horowitz brought the team gelt, a menorah, and dreidels, and led the squad in the shehecheyanu prayer before the NFC Championship game.

Dave Cohn, Executive Director of University of USCHillel, reflects on the aftermath of the LA wildfires and the critical role that Hillel plays for Jewish students in Los Angeles. Cohn highlights how Hillel’s efforts, such as providing essential resources, offering free mental health care, and keeping students informed with updates, have been vital to the healing process as the community rebuilds.

Through Hillel International’s Israel Leadership Network, a group of 30 Jewish student leaders from all eight University of California system campuses came together to simultaneously share powerful symbols of Jewish pride and resilience, including the Star of David, the menorah, and the shofar. Combining physical exhibits and a digital Unity Wall, the initiative celebrated Jewish identity, strength, and community.

Jewish Life at Duke, the university’s Hillel, received the 2024-2025 Duke Presidential Award for significant contributions to the campus community. Hillel’s “Antisemitism 101” training for faculty and staff was a standout initiative, recognized for its impact in creating a more inclusive campus.