Hillel Campus Report - January 2009


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Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life	January 29, 2009

Hillel Activists Rally for Israel and Peace

The Muslim Student Association (MSA) and Hillel at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) hadn't spoken to each other since a conflict flared between them several years ago. All that changed recently as the groups worked together to organize a peace rally on VCU's campus.

"For us this is amazing," said KB Levin, Hillels of Richmond director. "It took several years of no conversation. This was really a step in the right direction for us."

In the wake of the recent Israeli conflict in Gaza, Hillels all around the country have been demonstrating support for Israel through rallies, dialogues. Read full story >>

Be sure to read Hillel Supports Israel on Campus to see an overview of all the activities Hillel students have organized worldwide.

(PHOTO: Hillel and the Muslim Student Association at Virginia Commonwealth University joined together for a peace rally. )

IN THIS ISSUE:
• Activists Rally for Peace
• Editor's Column
NEWSMAKERS:
• Rahm Emanuel
• Maital Guttman
FEATURES:
• Hillel Students at the Inauguration
• Sex Ed and Sunday Services
• Students on Alt Breaks
• Newsbites
• College 101
• Learn Something Jewish

Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges
Dear HCR Reader,

Hillel's mission is to "enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world." The students on Virginia Commonwealth University's campus really demonstrated Hillel's mission statement, as I reported in "Hillel Activists Rally for Israel and Peace." When Muslim and Jewish students find a way to break down barriers, particularly today, it is a positive sign for the future.

Max signature.

Max W. Orenstein, Editor
Hillel Campus Report
campusreport@hillel.org

Rahm Emanuel and Maital Guttman. Rahm Emanuel
Read how Rahm Emanuel, the tough-talking, ballet-dancing son of an Israeli pioneer, became one of the most powerful men in America as President Barack Obama’s chief of staff. And don’t miss his 2005 roast by then-Senator Obama.

Maital Guttman
Independent filmmaker Maital Guttman discovered her passion for cinema when she broke out of her “Jewish bubble” in college and experienced anti-Israel activity.

Bonus Profile: Senator Franken? As we go to press it is still unclear whether former Saturday Night Live writer Al Franken will be seated in the U.S. Senate. Read HCR’s 2005 interview with the liberal activist as he discusses his college years – and plays it coy about his political intentions.

COLLEGE SEARCH - Hillel Guide to Jewish Life on Campus.

Hillel Students 'Excited to Be There'
Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life selected four student activists to represent Hillel at Inaugural festivities in Washington, D.C. Hillel was invited to participate in the Inaugural ceremonies and the National Day of Service by the Obama Transition Team. Read about their experiences here >>

Sex Ed and Sunday Services: Hillel, 1928
Sex education was one of the most popular programs offered by Hillel at the University of Wisconsin in 1928. A newly-discovered transcript of a meeting of Hillel professionals from the first four Hillel foundations reveals many of the same issues that confront Hillel today. Read full story >>

Students Volunteer Their Time on Alternative Breaks
Giving up the comforts of living at home or traveling to exotic destinations, 85 students from nine Hillel centers are spending their winter breaks in New Orleans Jan. 4-11 fixing up homes in the areas affected by Hurricane Katrina just over three years ago. Read full story >>

Newsbites
University of Rhode Island Hillel activist Betsy Cohen writes about rebuilding New Orleans / Rutgers Hillel students take Broadway / Baltimore area Jewish students bring crayons to Ashkelon children / Boston College students hold a vigil for victims in Israel and Gaza.

College 101
It's never too early to focus on financing one's college education. Reform Judaism Magazine explores the fine print of financial aid. And be sure to check out Hillel's Guide to Jewish Scholarships.

Learn Something Jewish
The Bible and Jewish tradition recognize that there is a time for war and a time for peace. This text study, prepared by Hillel's Meyerhoff Center for Jewish Experience, explores the Jewish approach to war and peace.

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