UMass Hillel
telephone: (413) 549-1710
Hillel stands
at the center of Jewish life on campus. In this warm and lively
environment Jewish students of all backgrounds – religious
and secular – feel at home and included. Founded more than
50 years ago, Hillel at UMass
Amherst does tremendous work in fostering Jewish pride on campus
and is recognized internationally as a leader in creative campus
programming. The diversity and quality of its activities have brought
numerous international awards; it is the only campus Hillel in the
world to win the William Haber Award for outstanding programming
five times!
Hillel is one
of the most active student groups on campus with approximately 70
percent of the University’s 3,000 Jewish students participating.
Working in partnership with students, the committed staff generates
a dynamic array of social, cultural, religious, and community service
programs that are relevant to student interest and needs.
Students come
to Hillel for many reasons:
- to explore their Judaism;
- to make lifelong friends;
- to raise their awareness and celebrate their
heritage;
- to enjoy a congenial spot for study and
relaxation; and
- to live out the Jewish value of tzedakah
(charity).
Year by year,
activity by activity, students affirm their Jewish identity and
prepare for a lifetime of participation in the community.
The University
benefits from this well-established Hillel. It enlivens the multicultural
character of the entire community and attracts Jewish students to
the campus. Many students say that it was the decisive factor in
their choosing the University. Parents also note a dramatic impact
on their children’s lives. One mother noted: “Hillel provides
a place for my daughter to feel safe and connected. With her so
far away from home, I rest easier knowing that there is a strong
Jewish community receiving her with open arms.”
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