Consul General Asaf Shariv (left) joins students in lighting the Chanukah menorah. 

Hillel joined with the Israeli Consulate in New York and the UJA-Federation of New York in a Chanukah reception to celebrate their partnership in fostering Israel advocacy and education on campuses around the world and particularly in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Consul General Asaf Shariv expressed his gratitude for Hillel’s work and reinforced the Consulate’s commitment to providing resources in support of Hillel’s academic initiatives and cultural outreach.  He extended an open invitation for future collaboration to bring Israeli music, authors, and speakers to local campuses.

Jerry Levin, chair of the Board of UJA-Federation of New York, paid tribute to Hillel adding that he was inspired to meet with the young Jewish leaders of today and tomorrow.

Steve Greenberg, vice chair of Hillel’s Board of Directors and chair of the Development Committee, said that by working together to reinforce young Jews’ attachment to Israel, Hillel - with the support of the Consulate and the UJA Federation of New York - is doing its part to ensure the future of our global Jewish community.

The evening concluded with the lighting of the Chanukah menorah by six students from local Hillels. Before they kindled the flames, the students spoke about Hillel’s impact on their Jewish identity and their connection to Israel.

“From simple ‘welcome’ signs on the first day of school to Taglit-Birthright Israel: Hillel trips, from student-run initiatives to Alternative Breaks, their stories reinforced Hillel’s ability to create meaningful Jewish experiences on campus and powerful Jewish memories to support a lasting relationship with Jewish life,” said Hillel Executive Vice President Mark Medin who represented Hillel at the event.