News

Hillel International Announces Largest Scholarship Awards in its History for Upcoming School Year

Author

Hillel International

Date

July 24, 2025

Hillel International will award college scholarships to more than 60 Jewish students totaling nearly $350,000 this fall across the U.S. and Canada.

Washington, D.C. – Hillel International, the world’s largest Jewish campus organization, today announced the recipients of its 2025 Student Leadership Scholarships. The organization will award nearly $350,000 to more than 60 students across 12 scholarship categories, representing the largest cohort of scholarship recipients in the program’s history.

Scholarships are merit-based, with factors including academic excellence, community service, Jewish connection, first-generation college enrollment, and family need factoring into the selection process. Past and current scholarship recipients include advocates for rare disease research, data analysts in the Israeli Intelligence Corps, leaders of peer counseling groups, humanitarian aid drivers in Ukraine, and founders of children’s literacy programs.

Hillel International’s scholarship program was founded just five years ago, with four recipients receiving a total of $16,000 in 2020. Since then, Hillel International has dramatically expanded its annual scholarship program for Jewish students by over $300,000 per year, and will disburse more than $1 million in scholarship funds over the next three years. This significant increase in Hillel student scholarships comes at a time of rising participation and engagement in Hillel programs and services — a record-setting 185,000 student participants last school year — and increased antisemitism on college campuses, as well as rising tuition costs.

The majority of Hillel scholarships are renewable annually until the student graduates, and they range from $3,000 to $18,000 annually per scholarship, supporting a wide array of students from incoming college first-years to graduate students. 

“We are exceptionally proud to support these Jewish student leaders who are not only excelling academically but are also committed to becoming leaders in their Jewish and campus communities,” said Hillel International President and CEO Adam Lehman. “Their dedication, talent, and resilience give us tremendous hope for the future of Jewish life on campus.“

This scholarship program reinforces the organization’s continued commitment to fostering community for Jewish students on campus and continuing to make college more accessible for those at the forefront of Jewish student leadership. The 2025 recipients attend universities across the country and represent diverse backgrounds and academic pursuits.

The full list of recipients this year is as follows:

Aronson Fussman Excellence Scholarship: $18,000 Renewable

• Alek Golubchik, Los Angeles, California, University of Pennsylvania
• Samantha Rose, Short Hills, New Jersey, Duke University
• Tal Appel, Israel, Columbia University

Louis E. Rabinowitz Scholarship: $5,000 Renewable

• Emma Goldman, Atlanta, Georgia, The Citadel
• David Brandin, Columbia, South Carolina, Clemson University
• Brian Cohn, Norfolk, Virginia, University of South Carolina

Frimer First Generation Student Scholarship: $5,000 Renewable

• Jonathan Adler, Las Vegas, Nevada, Yale University

Ellen B. Fuhr Scholarship: $5,000 Renewable

• Katherine Reshetnikov, Queens, New York, Hunter College
• Leah Tamayev, New York City, New York, Hunter College
• Anna Barteck, New York City, New York, Hunter College
• Laura Elliott, New York, Hunter College (Fall 2024 recipient)
• * Two additional students were awarded this scholarship in Fall 2024

Behrman Campus Leadership Award: $5,000 Renewable

• Daniel Hutman, Silver Spring, Maryland, University of Maryland, College Park

Paulson Leadership Award for Jewish CUNY Students: $4,000 Renewable

• Yuval Vine Molco, Israel, Baruch College
• Samuel Reingold, Brooklyn, New York, Baruch College
• Alice Virovlyansky, New York City, New York, Baruch College
• Aidan Herzlinger, Old Bridge, New Jersey, Baruch College
• Becky Halfon, Brooklyn, New York, Brooklyn College
• Yael Dahan, Los Angeles, California, Brooklyn College
• Nitzan Naim, Rosh Haayin, Israel, Brooklyn College
• Sarah Vidal, Brooklyn, New York, City College of New York
• Benjamin Lesczynski, Manhattan, New York, City College of New York
• Daniel Chernov, Staten Island, New York, College of Staten Island
• Mika Feintuch, Haifa, Israel, Hunter College
• Keira Kepets, Teaneck, New Jersey, John Jay College of Criminal Justice
• Ziv Nachshon, Queens, New York, Queens College
• Maya Harpaz, Kew Gardens, New York, Queens College
• Gavriel Zahler, Long Island, New York, Queens College
• Avishai Aghelian, Queens, New York, Queens College

Jules and Gwen Knapp First Generation Student Scholarship: $3,000 Renewable

• Liane Barak, Boca Raton, Florida, The University of Miami

Jules and Gwen Knapp Campus Leadership Award: $3,000 Renewable

• Ninnette Jalfon, Katy, Texas, The University of Texas at Austin

Lilly E. Reiser Graduate Student Award: $5,000 One-Time

• Rachel Benaim-Abudarham, Boca Raton, Florida, Florida Atlantic University

Jordan and Elise Levin Scholarship for Jewish Enrichment and Education: $5,000 One-Time

• Julia Rose Weiss, Closter, New Jersey, University of Richmond
• Noa Kizhnerman, Queens, New York, Purdue University
• Elias Cohen, Panama, New York University

Jack and Harriet Kudine First-Year Student Scholarship: $5,000 One-Time

• Zoe Lazar, Ocean Township, New Jersey, Virginia Tech University
• Tova Rosenbaum, Pasadena, California, University of California, Los Angeles
• Aviya Madar, Brooklyn, New York, Harvard University

Sandy and Jack Cohen Scholarship: $5,000 One-Time

• Melissa Simplicio Silva, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, New York University

For anyone looking to learn more about contributing to Hillel International’s scholarship efforts, please contact our Senior Director of planned giving Charles M. Miller, JD, AEP® at cmiller@hillel.org or 202.449.6529.

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News

Antisemitic Incidents on Campus at Record High in Past School Year 

Author

Hillel International

Date

July 17, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Antisemitic incidents on college campuses reached their highest levels ever in the 2024-2025 school year, Hillel International, the world’s largest Jewish campus organization, announced today. A total of 2,334 incidents were reported, which is an increase of more than 500 incidents over the 2023-2024 academic year (1,853 incidents) and a ten-fold rise compared to the 2022-2023 year (289) – the last year before the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. 

Despite the overall increase in antisemitic activity on campus, the data reveals significant progress in several key areas. Incidents of assault decreased from a high of 50 in 2023-2024 to 32 in 2024-2025, and incidents of vandalism and graffiti declined by nearly 55 percent. The number of anti-Israel campus encampments dropped by 92 percent. 

The research also highlights a dramatic shift in the nature of antisemitic activity, with reported incidents of online harassment surging nearly 185 percent. Graduation disruptions also increased slightly this school year, with 37 disruptions or incidents, compared to 31 the year prior.

“All Jewish students should feel they belong on campus, but unfortunately, too often we’re seeing environments that make Jewish students feel excluded and threatened,” said Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International. “Over the past year, many universities have made significant changes to better clarify and enforce their policies and codes of conduct, supported by our work with them to achieve these improvements. When universities step up and enforce their rules, Jewish students and all students benefit from a safer, more inclusive campus environment.”

In response to the ongoing issues, Hillel International expanded its comprehensive strategies to protect and support Jewish students, and increased the number of opportunities for Jewish students to convene in safe and joyful community experiences. These efforts include enhanced security initiatives and grants, growing partnerships with universities to improve their policies and practices, and expanded programs to educate students, faculty, and staff about the nature of contemporary antisemitism and how to prevent it. 

“While we’re encouraged by progress in some areas, any counting of incidents likely underrepresents the true scope of antisemitism, because many incidents go unreported – especially as they become normalized,” said Jon Falk, Vice President, Israel Engagement and Confronting Antisemitism at Hillel International. “We cannot allow this level of antisemitism to feel normal. That’s why we’re working on campuses every day, creating safe, inclusive, and vibrant communities for Jewish students everywhere.”

Methodology

Hillel International collects data about antisemitic incidents on campus through a number of sources, including college and university bias reporting portals, directly from students, through the Campus Antisemitism Legal Line (CALL), and ReportCampusHate.org, a joint project of Hillel International, the Anti Defamation League, and the Secure Community Network. The data is cross-referenced to ensure accuracy and thoroughness.

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News

Hillel International Announces 2025-2026 Student Cabinet

Author

Hillel International

Date

July 8, 2025

New Student Cabinet will strengthen Jewish life and student engagement across more than 850 campuses globally.

Washington, D.C. – Hillel International, the world’s largest Jewish campus organization, today announced the 20 members of the 2025-2026 Hillel International Student Cabinet. The selected students will collaborate with Hillel International’s professional staff and board leadership to advise on student experiences, represent diverse perspectives, and help shape innovative approaches that strengthen Jewish campus life for students worldwide. 

Selected through a highly competitive process, the 20 Cabinet members represent students at the more than 850 campuses Hillel serves worldwide, linking the student experience and organizational leadership. This year, eight universities are represented for the first time, and the 20 members hail from universities in six countries: Brazil, Germany, Canada, Israel, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

“The Student Cabinet ensures that student voices remain at the core of everything we do at Hillel International,” said Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International. “The fresh perspective and ideas of these remarkable student leaders are invaluable as we work across the Hillel movement to foster meaningful opportunities for Jewish belonging, community, and leadership for all Jewish students.” 

Ariela Moel and Einav Tsach are serving as the incoming Cabinet’s co-chairs.

“Hillel is more than just a place for Jewish students to gather – it’s a place where they grow into who they’re meant to be,” said Ariela Moel, a member of the class of 2026 at the University of Southern California. “It’s an honor to take on this role and help make that kind of transformation possible – not just on my campus, but around the world – so every Jewish student can find their way home to themselves.” 

“So many Jewish students are feeling disconnected or unsure of where they fit in on campus,” said Einav Tsach, a member of the class of 2026 at the University of Maryland, College Park. “We want Hillel to be that space where every Jewish student feels they belong. This year, we’re hoping to really speak to what students need—whether that’s community, culture, or just a place to relax and be themselves.” 

Below is a full list of the 2025-2026 Hillel International Student Cabinet members. 

Cabinet Members: 

• Gabrielle Barsky-Giles, Queen’s University, ‘26
• Michal Berlove, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, ‘26
• Zoe Cosgrove, University of Michigan, ‘27
• Sydney Grossman, Vanderbilt University, ‘26 
• Hadley Kalson, University of Vermont, ‘26
• Kara Klaiman, University of Virginia, ‘26
• Rachel Lennard, University of Oregon, ‘27
• Sam Leschins, University of Florida, ‘26
• Matthew Levine, The Ohio State University, ‘26
• Mateen Markzar, Brown University, ‘26
• Kylie Miller, Roosevelt University, ‘26
• Ariela Moel, University of Southern California, ‘26
• Andrew Petlak, University of California, Berkeley, ‘26
• Sara Quintero, Northeastern University, London Campus, ‘26
• Michelle Rosner, University of Delaware, ‘26
• Ori Segev, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, ‘26
• Elina Shikher, University of Potsdam, ‘26
• Benjamin Small, University of Pennsylvania, ‘27
• Marelo Topper, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, ‘27
• Einav Tsach, University of Maryland, ‘26

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News

Hillel International Announces Eighth Weinberg Accelerate Executive Advancement Program Cohort

Author

Hillel International

Date

May 21, 2025

Members of the eighth cohort will participate in an 18-month leadership development program focused on creating dynamic leaders within the Hillel movement.

 Today, Hillel International is announcing its eighth cohort of the Debra S. and Joseph S. Weinberg Accelerate Executive Advancement Program, its premier executive advancement experience. Through a combination of expert-led training, executive coaching, and hands-on leadership development, Accelerate cultivates the next generation of Hillel professionals. 

This year’s cohort was selected through a highly competitive process, with applicants from across the Hillel movement. Each participant was selected as a proven leader within Hillel, recognized for their dedication to strengthening Jewish life on campus, fostering community, and driving meaningful impact within their organizations

The eighth cohort includes the following Hillel professionals: 

• Ben Zeiger, Director of Student Engagement, Hillel at Stanford 
• Dawn Savage, Assistant Director, University of Maryland Hillel
• Elyse Wieskopf, Senior Director, Hillel TMU (Hillel Ontario)
• Jeffrey Levin, Senior Jewish Educator, Central Florida Hillel
• Jenna Ferman, Assistant Director, University of Pennsylvania Hillel
• Jordan Gerson, Chief Experience Officer, Washington University in St. Louis Hillel
• Michael Pollak, Assistant Director, Hillel at Kent State University
• Molly Goldmeier, Managing Director, Brown RISD Hillel
• Nicole Berne, Associate Director, Metro Chicago Hillel
• Rachael Cohen, Managing Director, USC Hillel
• Rachel Waldorf, Chief Experience Officer, University of Florida Hillel
• Shana Zionts, Associate Director, Columbia/Barnard Hillel – The Kraft Center for Jewish Life
• Zosia Jezierska Ostałowska, Operations & Finance Manager, Hillel Poland

“This cohort exemplifies the breadth of talent Hillel’s have recruited and fostered to carry out our global mission,” said Hillel International President and CEO Adam Lehman. “As Hillel continues to serve students in an increasingly complex higher education ecosystem, Accelerate provides opportunities for emerging Hillel leaders to develop the necessary skills and capacities to tackle challenges and capitalize on opportunities.”

Accelerate officially kicked off in February, and will run until August 2026 as the cohort undertakes this unparalleled opportunity to build the strategic, operational, and relational skills essential for executive leadership roles.

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News

Nearly One-Third of American Jewish College Students Feel Faculty Members Have Promoted Antisemitism or Learning Environments Hostile to Jews: New Survey

Author

Hillel International

Date

February 18, 2025

Survey also found 43% of Jewish college students avoided expressing their views about Israel on campus or to classmates because of fears of antisemitism 

Nearly one-third (32%) of American Jewish college students report feeling that faculty on their campuses have promoted antisemitism or fueled a learning environment that is hostile to Jews, according to new data from American Jewish Committee (AJC) and Hillel International. As part of AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report, AJC and Hillel International partnered to document Jewish students’ experiences during their time on campus. The report details how American Jewish college and university students are experiencing antisemitism, both in and outside of the classroom.

The data points to a troubling trend: many Jewish students feel they cannot trust all faculty to foster the educational environments they deserve – free from anti-Jewish and anti-Israel bias.

“How are Jewish students supposed to show up and engage in class or have trust in their educators if they feel that their professors are creating a hostile environment for Jews on campus?” said AJC CEO Ted Deutch. “If students feel that they need to just keep their head down and earn their grade, they are not fully participating in the educational experience that they have a right to and deserve. Educators and administrators need to take action to ensure that their classrooms and campuses are places free from hate, bigotry, and harassment so that all students – including Jewish, Israeli, and Zionist students – have the opportunity to grow and thrive.”

AJC’s State of Antisemitism in America 2024 Report comes on the heels of the encampment protests that erupted on campuses across the country during the 2023-24 school year. Of the Jewish students who witnessed anti-Israel campus protests or demonstrations and/or pro-Palestinian encampments after October 7, 2023, half (51%) said that these protests or encampments made them feel unsafe on campus.

Additionally, roughly one-third (35%) of current American Jewish college students and recent graduates report having personally experienced antisemitism at least once during their time on campus, with 20% reporting that it happened more than once. One-fifth (22%) of Jewish students report feeling or being excluded from a group or an event on campus because they are Jewish.

Further, nearly one-third (32%) of American Jewish students said that they have felt uncomfortable or unsafe at a campus event because of their Jewish identity. These results point to many Jewish students feeling that they cannot fully be themselves and they, like the majority of American Jewish adults, are changing their behavior out of fear of antisemitism: more than three in 10 (34%) students said they have avoided wearing, carrying, or displaying things that would identify them as Jewish, and 43% avoided expressing their views on Israel on campus or to classmates. 

“As Jewish teens and their families make decisions about where they will spend their college years, it is crucial that they know they will be safe and able to fully express their Jewish identities,” said Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International. “Jewish students should feel safe to express their Jewish identities no matter where they are on campus – whether at Hillel or in the dorms, the library, or the classroom.”

The survey also asked U.S. adults about the encampments and 63% of U.S. adults expressed concern about the encampments on campus – with one-third (33%) saying that they should not be allowed and 30% saying that they need stricter regulation from universities – because some of them fostered antisemitism, blocked students from getting to class, or broke campus rules. Only 11% of U.S. adults said the tent encampments on campus were acceptable and should be allowed and the remaining 26% said “I don’t know enough to say.”

Importantly, reports of antisemitism on campus are playing a role in Jewish high school students’ college decisions. Roughly two-thirds (68%) of American Jews who are parents of a high school student said reports of antisemitism on campus are very (51%) or somewhat (17%) important in deciding where their student will attend college or university. 

“Academic freedom is foundational to higher education. However, academic discourse and debate can and must take place in an environment that is free from bias and discrimination. Our data, and work with students across the country, unfortunately show that American Jewish college students are feeling a pervasive lack of trust in their institutions and professors to maintain an atmosphere that is not biased against them. And we know that students who feel threatened cannot learn,” said AJC Center for Education Advocacy Director Laura Shaw Frank, Ph.D. “We are working directly with campus administrators to help them foster educational environments that prioritize critical thinking and viewpoint diversity which, in turn, also foster greater inclusion for Jews, Zionist views, and all students on campus. Educators must recognize that a significant majority of American Jews, including young American Jews, say caring about Israel is an important part of their Jewish identity.”

The surveys of American Jews and U.S. adults were conducted for the nonpartisan American Jewish Committee by the independent research firm SSRS. The Jewish American survey collected data from a nationally representative sample of 1,732 Jews, ages 18 or older from October 8 – November 29, 2024. Most respondents participated via a self-administered web survey and the remainder were interviewed on the phone. The U.S. adult survey collected data from a nationally representative sample of 2,056 general population adults, 18 or older, from October 10 – November 25, 2024, via the SSRS Opinion Panel. The margin of error for Jewish respondents is +/-3.3 percentage points and for total U.S. adult respondents is +/-3.0 percentage points at the 95% confidence level.

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News

83% of Jewish College Students Have Experienced or Witnessed Antisemitism Firsthand Since Oct. 7 Attack, Survey Finds

Author

Hillel International

Date

January 30, 2025

• 41 percent of Jewish students felt the need to hide their Jewish identity;
• One-in-four Jewish students felt compelled to take security precautions;
• Two-thirds of Jewish students lack confidence in their university’s ability to prevent antisemitic incidents

Eighty-three percent of Jewish college students have experienced or witnessed some form of antisemitism since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel, according to a new survey by ADL (the Anti-Defamation League), Hillel International, and College Pulse.      

Moreover, more than a quarter (27 percent) of Jewish students surveyed said they had observed antisemitic activity by faculty, compared to only 6 percent of non-Jewish students. The survey also found that two-thirds (66 percent) of Jewish students (and 60 percent of non-Jewish students) were not confident in their university’s ability to prevent antisemitic incidents.

“Since the October 7 attack in Israel, Jewish students have felt increasingly threatened, unwelcome and unsupported on campus, both by students and faculty,” said Jonathan A. Greenblatt, ADL CEO. “It is unacceptable that Jewish students cannot be confident in their university’s ability to address and prevent antisemitic incidents, and that they now live in a world in which they feel compelled to conceal their identity and beliefs. These findings underscore the urgent need for university leaders to step up and protect Jewish students.”

“These findings paint a deeply concerning picture of what Jewish students are facing on campuses today,” said Adam Lehman, President and CEO of Hillel International. “As we work to ensure that campuses are free from antisemitism, we are committed to creating spaces where Jewish students can build vibrant communities and express their identities with pride. No student should ever feel the need to hide who they are or take extra precautions to protect themselves while they’re living and learning at school.”

Other key findings include:

• 22.9 percent of Jewish students have felt compelled to take additional security precautions.
• Only about half (49.6 percent) of Jewish students reported feeling “very” or “extremely” comfortable with others on campus knowing their Jewish identity; 41 percent actively felt the need to hide their Jewish identity, and only 27 percent felt comfortable with others on campus knowing their views of Israel.
• More than one-in-ten Jewish students (13 percent) have withdrawn fromcampus or social activities, compared to only 2 percent of non-Jewish students.
• An overwhelming majority of students (92.5 percent) who had reported witnessing or experiencing an incident of antisemitism on campus did not report the incident to campus authorities.
  • Low awareness about what to do and a lack of confidence that they would get the help they needed drove many students to not report incidents of campus antisemitism.
  • A clear reporting policy was among the most frequently cited policies of importance to Jewish students (51 percent).
• Extreme anti-Israel attitudes were strongly related to minimization of the issue of anti-Jewish prejudice on campus among non-Jewish students.

Along with other leading Jewish communal and anti-hate organizations, ADL and Hillel International have been at the forefront in countering antisemitism on campus through ADL’s Ronald Birnbaum Center to Combat Antisemitism in Education (CCAE) and Not On My Campus campaign, and Hillel International’s Campus Climate Initiative (CCI), Campus4All.org website, and on-the-ground presence on hundreds of college and university campuses nationwide. 

In November 2023, ADL and Hillel International also launched the Campus Antisemitism Legal Line (CALL), a free legal protection helpline for students who have experienced antisemitism, along with the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP.

By heeding ADL’s Six Asks and joint ADL-Hillel guidance – developed in collaboration with leading Jewish communal partners – and adopting tailored data-driven solutions, educational institutions can work to ensure that all students, including Jewish students, can thrive in a safe and welcoming campus environment.

Methodology

In partnership with Hillel International and College Pulse, ADL fielded a survey of college students at 135 universities across the United States in the fall semester of 2024. This survey was conducted by College Pulse, an online survey and analytics platform focused on American college students. College Pulse’s proprietary panel includes more than 950,000 college students from more than 1,500 institutions of higher education across all 50 states. This survey employed an oversample of Jewish students, with 1,030 Jewish students and 1,140 non-Jewish students responding. Responses from non-Jewish students were gathered from 135 colleges and universities, while responses from Jewish students were gathered from 128 of these colleges and universities.

About ADL

ADL is the leading anti-hate organization in the world. Founded in 1913, its timeless mission is “to stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all.” Today, ADL continues to fight all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. A global leader in combating antisemitism, countering extremism and battling bigotry wherever and whenever it happens, ADL works to protect democracy and ensure a just and inclusive society for all. More at www.adl.org.

About Hillel International

Founded in 1923, Hillel has been impacting the lives of Jewish college students and countering antisemitism on campus for more than 100 years. Hillel International is a global organization that welcomes students of all backgrounds and fosters an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel. As the largest Jewish student organization in the world, Hillel builds connections with emerging adults at more than 850 colleges and universities. During their formative college years, students are inspired to explore, experience, and create vibrant Jewish lives.

About College Pulse

College Pulse is a survey research and analytics company dedicated to understanding the attitudes, preferences, and behaviors of today’s college students. College Pulse offers custom data-driven marketing and research solutions, utilizing its unique American College Student Panel™ that includes over 950,000 college students and recent graduates from more than 1,500 two- and four-year colleges and universities across all 50 states.

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News

Hillel International Honors Exceptional Campus Hillels and Professional Staff at 2024 Global Assembly 

Author

Hillel International

Date

December 12, 2024

World’s largest Jewish college organization convened campus leaders in Boston from Dec. 9-12 for 2024 Global Assembly; recognized extraordinary leadership efforts

BOSTON, MA- Hillel International, the largest Jewish campus organization in the world, honored campus Hillels and professionals for their leadership, innovation and commitment to Jewish student life in Boston this week. The awards were presented during the 2024 Hillel International Global Assembly (HIGA), which brings together more than 1,200 professionals, supporters, sponsors, and students from across the world for a three-day annual conference centered on growth and leadership.

“We are so inspired by the campus Hillels and professionals who are dedicated to building vibrant, welcoming communities for Jewish students at a time when they need it most,” said Hillel International President and CEO Adam Lehman. “I could not be more proud to recognize how these award-winning Hillel professionals have come together to share ideas and learn from each other, to ensure that every Jewish student can celebrate and participate in Jewish life.”

Honored in front of their colleagues and supporters in the global Hillel movement, the awardees were selected for their leadership and impact in advancing Hillel’s mission to enrich the lives of Jewish students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world.

The awards and honorees included: 

Individual Awards

The Richard M. Joel Exemplar of Excellence Award recognizes Hillel colleagues whose remarkable passion and outstanding devotion to the Jewish campus community sets a standard for all to emulate. 

• Rabbi Nicole Berne – Associate Director, Metro Chicago Hillel
• Lauren Bloom – Associate Director, Tufts University Hillel Foundation
• Susanna (Susu) Cohen – Chief Development Officer, Grinspoon Hillel at Cornell
• Uri Cohen – Executive Director, Yale Hillel (Slifka Center)
• Rabbi Elana Friedman – Campus Rabbi & Jewish Chaplain, Jewish Life at Duke
• Matt Lorch – Executive Director, Bradley University Hillel
• Rabbi Jessica Lott – Campus Rabbi, Northwestern Hillel
• Amee Sherer – Executive Director, University of Washington Hillel

The Rising Star Award recognizes early-career professionals who have worked at Hillel for at least one full year and have significantly impacted Jewish campus life in just a short amount of time.

• Julian Albright – Student Engagement Director, Indiana University Hillel
• Brian Burke – IACT Director of Israel and Jewish Experiences, Hillel Jewish University Center of Pittsburgh
• Khiya Connolly-Sisk – Jewish Student Life Coordinator, Ithaca College Hillel
• Jenna Hasher – Assistant Director of Development, University of Florida Hillel
• Casey Kelly – Springboard Innovation Fellow, Queens College Hillel
• Lielle Ziv – NYU Hillel Bronfman Center

Campus Awards

Innovation

• Florida Hillels, “Florida Hillels’ Poland Experience”
  • Central Florida Hillel
  • Hillel at Florida International University
  • Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach
  • Hillel at Florida State University
  • Hillels of the Florida Suncoast
  • University of Florida Hillel
  • University of Miami Hillel
• Northeastern University Hillel, “London Shabbaton”
• Dynamic Jewish Education: Yale Hillel (Slifka Center), “Tradition and Change: Exploring, Confronting, and Celebrating Gender in Judaism”
• Eleanor Meyerhoff Katz Innovation: NYU Hillel Bronfman Center, “Jewish Athlete Alliance (JAA)”

Excellence

• Metro Chicago Hillel, “Interviewing and Onboarding Systems”
• Northwestern Hillel, “Senior Series”
• Syracuse University Hillel, “FreshFest” 
• Great Place to Work: Hillel 818
• Philip H. and Susan Rudd Cohen Outstanding Campus Award
  • Small Campus – Franklin and Marshall Hillel
  • Large Campus – Hillel of San Diego

The 2024 Award

The 2024 Award recognizes an initiative, program, or effort on campus that has responded to a timely need for the community. The awardee is selected through a popular vote. 

• Ohio State University Hillel, “Restorative Justice Sessions”

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News

Hillel Concert Series “Yallapalooza 2024” Wraps Up after 3-City Tour Celebrating Jewish Joy 

Author

Hillel International

Date

November 11, 2024

Grammy-nominated singer Matisyahu, 2018 Eurovision winner Netta, 2023 Eurovision finalist Noa Kirel, and Nova Music Festival artists performed for thousands of Jewish college students  

Last night, the Yallapalooza 2024 concert series, powered by Hillel International, made its final stop at the Fillmore in Philadelphia after a week of bringing together thousands of Jewish college students across three cities to celebrate Jewish joy after an incredibly difficult year for Jewish students on college campuses. The concerts featured performances by Grammy-nominated musician Matisyahu, 2023 Eurovision finalist Noa Kirel, 2018 Eurovision winner Netta, and DJ Sasi and Yonatan Cohen, who both performed at the Nova Music Festival and survived the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Before Philadelphia, Yallapalooza took place at the Beacon Theater in New York on Nov. 3 and Emerson Colonial in Boston on November 7. 

Since October 7, 2023, Jewish college students have faced an alarming surge of antisemitism on college campuses across North America. These experiences have impacted what should be the most exciting, freeing, and transformative years of their lives. 

Despite these challenges, Jewish college students have shown extraordinary courage and have come together to embrace Jewish joy, from celebrating the High Holidays to participating in Hillel programs, events, and welcome week activities in record-breaking numbers. Yallapalooza 2024 celebrated that spirit and offered thousands of Jewish students a new opportunity to join together in a much-needed space for collective joy with some of the top Jewish musical acts in the world. 

“Yallapalooza was very special. To see so many Jewish students feeling joy through music was incredible,” said Matisyahu. “Their energy was palpable and it was so powerful to be a part of this concert series with so many students in New York, Boston and Philadelphia over the past week.” 

“I am so thrilled to have been able to come to the U.S. and perform for students who deserve this opportunity to celebrate with their community,” said Noa Kirel. “The atmosphere was incredible and I loved being part of such a fun and joyful moment with thousands of Jewish students.”

“I was honored to participate in three amazing nights of celebration for Jewish students and showcase my music and represent the Tribe of Nova after such a difficult year,” said DJ Sasi, co-producer and a performer at the Nova Music Festival on 10/7. “Jews and Israelis across the world have faced many challenges since 10/7, yet we will continue to stand proudly together and showcase our story for all to see. 

“Following October 7, the Jewish college experience was completely upended by the rise in antisemitism on campus,” said Natalie Ryba, a senior at Hunter College and member of Hillel International’s Student Cabinet. “Events like Hillel’s Yallapalooza concert give us the opportunity to experience Jewish music and joy with thousands of other college students, and for us it means the world to be able to celebrate being proudly Jewish together.”

For over 100 years, Hillel has been a welcoming and supportive space for millions of Jewish college students of all backgrounds, denominations, and beliefs. Hillel, the world’s largest Jewish college organization, remains committed to being a trusted place for students seeking community, belonging, and support. With this concert series Hillel continues to be there for Jewish students, enabling them to come together, dance, sing and enjoy an evening together after an extraordinarily difficult past year.

“Amid another year marked by continuing challenges on campus, we were thrilled to take our commitment to Jewish college students on the road and bring thousands of students together for three nights of music, celebration, and joy with some of the world’s top Jewish musicians,” said Hillel President and CEO Adam Lehman. “Whether it’s on or off campus, giving our students the opportunity to experience these indelible moments of Jewish joy is at the heart of Hillel’s mission.”    

The concerts were entirely free of charge for Jewish students and recent college graduates. Students joined from hundreds of universities and colleges, with more than 5,000 students and recent grads registering for tickets. 

The post Hillel Concert Series “Yallapalooza 2024” Wraps Up after 3-City Tour Celebrating Jewish Joy  appeared first on Hillel International.

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Hillel Concert Series “Yallapalooza 2024” Visits Boston

Author

Hillel International

Date

November 8, 2024

Grammy-nominated singer Matisyahu, 2023 Eurovision finalist Noa Kirel, and Nova Music Festival artists performed for over a thousand Jewish college students at Boston’s Emerson Colonial Theater.

Last night, the Yallapalooza 2024 concert series, powered by Hillel International, brought together more than 1,000 Jewish college students at Emerson Colonial in Boston for a night celebrating Jewish joy after an incredibly difficult year for Jewish students on college campuses. The concert featured performances by Grammy-nominated musician Matisyahu, 2023 Eurovision finalist Noa Kirel, and DJ Sasi and Yonatan Cohen, who both performed at the Nova Music Festival.The Boston show followed the kick-off concert in New York last Sunday.  

Since October 7, 2023, Jewish college students have faced an alarming surge of antisemitism on college campuses across North America. These experiences have impacted what should be the most exciting, freeing, and transformative years of their lives. 

Despite these challenges, Jewish college students have shown extraordinary courage and have come together to embrace Jewish joy, from celebrating the High Holidays to participating in Hillel programs, events, and welcome week activities in record-breaking numbers. Yallapalooza 2024 celebrated that spirit and offered Jewish students a new opportunity to join together in a much-needed space for collective joy with some of the top Jewish musical acts in the world. 

“The energy in Boston was incredible. It’s so powerful to see all these Jewish students, who have been through a lot in the last year, experiencing real joy through music,” said Matisyahu. “Yallapalooza is an important chance for unity and celebration during these times, and it is an honor to be a part of these shows.”

“I am so thrilled to have been able to come to the U.S. and perform for students who deserve this opportunity to celebrate with their community,” said Noa Kirel. “The atmosphere was incredible and I loved being part of such a fun and joyful moment with more than 1,000 Jewish students.”

“I am honored to participate in a night of celebration for Jewish students and showcase my music and represent the Tribe of Nova after such a difficult year,” said DJ Sasi, co-producer and a performer at the Nova Music Festival on 10/7. “Jews and Israelis across the world have faced many challenges since 10/7, yet we will continue to stand proudly together and showcase our story for all to see. 

“Since October 7 our Jewish college experience has been disrupted by a surge of antisemitism on campus, impacting many of us in Boston,” said Danny Denenberg, a student leader at Harvard University who spoke at last night’s concert. “Hillel’s Yallapalooza concert in Boston is an amazing opportunity to be proudly Jewish with our friends and thousands of other college students. Everyone there loved experiencing Jewish joy and dancing to incredible music. 

For over 100 years, Hillel has been a welcoming and supportive space for millions of Jewish college students of all backgrounds, denominations, and beliefs. Hillel, the world’s largest Jewish college organization, remains committed to being a trusted place for students seeking community, belonging, and support. With this concert series Hillel continues to be there for Jewish students, enabling them to come together, dance, sing and enjoy an evening together after an extraordinarily difficult past year.

“Amid another year marked by continuing challenges on campus, we are thrilled to take our commitment to Jewish college students on the road and bring thousands of students together for three nights of music, celebration, and joy with some of the world’s top Jewish musicians,” said Hillel President and CEO Adam Lehman. “Whether it’s on or off campus, giving our students the opportunity to experience these indelible moments of Jewish joy is at the heart of Hillel’s mission.”    

The concert was entirely free of charge for Jewish students and recent college graduates in the Boston area, and throughout the Northeast. The final concert of the Yallapalooza 2024 tour will take place the evening of Sunday, November 10 in Philadelphia. 

The post Hillel Concert Series “Yallapalooza 2024” Visits Boston appeared first on Hillel International.

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Hillel Concert Series “Yallapalooza 2024” Visits New York City

Author

Hillel International

Date

November 4, 2024

Grammy-nominated singer Matisyahu, Eurovision winner Netta, and Nova Music Festival artists performed for thousands of Jewish college students at NYC’s Beacon Theater.

Last night, the Yallapalooza 2024 concert series, powered by Hillel International and UJA-Federation of New York, brought together thousands of Jewish college students at the Beacon Theater in New York City for a night celebrating Jewish joy after an incredibly difficult year for Jewish students on college campuses. The concert featured performances by Grammy-nominated musician Matisyahu, Eurovision winner Netta, and DJ Sasi and Yonatan Cohen, who both performed at the Nova Music Festival.

Since October 7, 2023, Jewish college students have faced an alarming surge of antisemitism on college campuses across North America. These experiences have impacted what should be the most exciting, freeing, and transformative years of their lives.

Despite these challenges, Jewish college students have shown extraordinary courage and have come together to embrace Jewish joy, from celebrating the High Holidays to participating in Hillel programs, events, and welcome week activities in record-breaking numbers. Yallapalooza 2024 celebrated that spirit and offered Jewish students a new opportunity to join together in a much-needed space for collective joy with some of the top Jewish musical acts in the world. 

“Tonight was very special. To see so many Jewish students feeling joy through music was incredible,” said Matisyahu. “Their energy was palpable and it was so powerful to be a part of this night with so many students. I can’t wait for our next two shows in Boston and Philly.”

“I am honored to participate in a night of celebration for Jewish students and showcase my music and represent the Tribe of Nova after such a difficult year,” said DJ Sasi, co-producer and a performer at the Nova Music Festival on 10/7. “Jews and Israelis across the world have faced many challenges since 10/7, yet we will continue to stand proudly together and showcase our story for all to see.”

“Following October 7, the Jewish college experience was completely upended by the rise in antisemitism on campus, which has directly impacted many of us in New York,” said Natalie Ryba, a senior at Hunter College and member of Hillel International’s Student Cabinet. “Events like Hillel’s Yallapalooza concert in New York City give us the opportunity to experience Jewish music and joy with thousands of other college students, and for us it means the world to be able to celebrate being proudly Jewish together.”

For over 100 years, Hillel has been a welcoming and supportive space for millions of Jewish college students of all backgrounds, denominations, and beliefs. Hillel, the world’s largest Jewish college organization, remains committed to being a trusted place for students seeking community, belonging, and support. With this concert series Hillel continues to be there for Jewish students, enabling them to come together, dance, sing and enjoy an evening together after an extraordinarily difficult past year.

“Amid another year marked by continuing challenges on campus, we were thrilled to take our commitment to Jewish college students on the road and bring thousands of students together for a night of music, celebration and joy with some of the world’s top Jewish musicians,” said Hillel President and CEO Adam Lehman. “Whether it’s on or off campus, giving our students the opportunity to experience these indelible moments of Jewish joy is at the heart of Hillel’s mission.”   

“During a year when Jewish college students have faced an alarming increase in antisemitism on campus with strength and courage, it is more important than ever that we support them with opportunities where they can proudly showcase what it means to be Jewish,”said Matthew Bronfman, Chair of the Hillel International Board of Governors. “Tonight’s concert, featuring some of the most recognizable Jewish and Israeli musicians in the world playing in front of thousands of cheering students, was a wonderfully positive and uplifting experience that our students so richly deserve and that Hillel is so proud to provide.”

The concert was entirely free of charge for Jewish students and recent college graduates in New York City and the Tri-State area. Students attended from more than 200 schools, including Columbia University, NYU, Binghamton University, and the City University of New York (CUNY) schools, as well as from colleges and universities nationwide.

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