Hillel is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to enrich and empower Jewish students across campuses around the world alike. Hillel started in 1923 in Illinois, and was founded by Rabbi Benjamin Franke. From its humble beginnings, the organization has now spread to campuses around the world and is the largest on campus organization for Jewish students here at NC State.
The name Hillel comes from the famous Jewish scholar and sage, Hillel the Elder, founder of House of Hillel and author of the “Golden Rule.”
NC State’s chapter of Hillel has accomplished, and is continuing to accomplish, the group’s mission through its dedication to fostering an environment that encourages growth for its members. The organization also inspires leadership in its participating members, pushing them to be leaders on campus.
The president of Hillel, Julia Sangerdahl, a fourth-year studying business administration, credits Hillel as an integral part of her experience with Judaism.
“I grew up non-religious,” Sangerdahl said. “I came to a big school and I felt I needed community, and especially with everything going on, I feel that it is important for Jewish students to feel safe. Hillel is pluralistic organization — we do not affiliate with one denomination. We welcome all … I grew up less religious, and Hillel has grown my cultural association.”
Hillel is an organization centered on community and building healthy bonds between Jewish students and non-Jewish students alike. The organization is also open to participation for all students of all different beliefs. Hillel, while being recognized as a Jewish organization, is also active in interfaith events and has strong relationships with other faith-based organizations.
Vice president of Hillel, Miriam Roocvarg, a fourth-year studying communication, spoke about Hillel’s focus.
“I grew up more religious,” Roocvarg said. “I would say our stuff is more focused on social action. My focus has been less on the religious aspect, and more on the social aspect [of Judaism]. It is about people finding their connection to Judaism, especially for college students forming their identity. [We are] helping people explore other aspects of their identity. Hillel was my first group that developed my friendships … it’s great to have that sense of community.”
Hillel hosts many events, most notably events in celebration of Jewish holidays Yom Kippur and Passover. However, not all of Hillel’s events are religion-focused — the organization also holds social events such as trivia nights, social outings to the State Fair and other local places, and coffee breaks, where club members will relax with a cup of coffee and the sound of other students playing musical instruments.
A key event for Hillel is a bagel brunch event they hold once a semester, where they usually have a huge turnout. The event typically brings in about 80 people. Another key event the group puts on is the Annual Hillel Howl Week, where Hillel holds special welcome week events including a welcome back bash for students.
Although Hillel has become more and more popular, the organization came from rather humble beginnings.
“Freshman and sophomore year we would be excited to see 10 people [at our events],” Sangerdahl said. “Now we are disappointed if we do not see more than 10 people”
After growing in popularity, Hillel opened a new space in May, located at 2402A Hillsborough Street The space acts as a home away from home for Jewish students of all kinds, and offers a safe space for Jewish students to explore their faith. Additionally, the space works in accordance to Jewish students’s dietary restrictions, as conflicts often occur with campus catering services over coordinating kosher food.
Simply put, Hillel is a welcomed presence on campus offering both Jewish and non-Jewish students a community that cares about its members. Hillel works to provide a nurturing environment for spiritual growth and harmony for all.
The NC State Hillel Club stands together in their clubroom on Hillsborough Street after their Sukkot celebration on Tuesday. North Carolina Hillel is a foundation that allows Jewish students to gather and strengthen their Jewish identities.
