Breaking Silos, Building Bridges: The Power and Promise of Multifaith Work
In a time when division often dominates headlines, the quiet, steady work of building bridges across lines of faith, culture, and identity has never been more essential. At Kent State University, this past year reminded us of how deeply impactful multifaith and intercultural engagement can be, not just in theory, but in the tangible relationships it sparks, the trust it builds, and the future it reshapes.
At its core, multifaith work isn’t about erasing differences, it’s about embracing them. It’s about creating spaces where people show up not as representatives of their group, but as whole humans willing to learn, listen, and lead together. This philosophy was the driving force behind two transformative events we hosted this year at Kent State Hillel: the Student Leaders’ Unity Dinner and Faith Fest. Each represented a distinct approach to community-building and the impact has been nothing short of inspiring.
Unity Dinner: A Seat at the Table for Every Voice
Held on February 27, 2025 and later recognized as Kent State’s “Program of the Year”, the Student Leaders’ Unity Dinner brought over 35 student leaders representing everything from Greek life and political clubs to Black student organizations, LGBTQ+ groups, and academic societies into Hillel’s building for an evening of intentional connection. Behind the scenes, this dinner was a year in the making, carried forward by the dedication of Hillel staff, Hillel’s multifaith interns, and Kent State’s campus partner fellows (sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Cleveland).
Over a shared meal, student leaders participated in guided conversations and networking activities designed to break down silos and foster mutual understanding. A powerful keynote from Dr. Eboni Pringle, Kent State’s senior vice president of student life, grounded the evening in a message of empathy and leadership.
The impact of the evening was seen immediately and has been sustained through the rest of the academic year. Hannah Sietz, rising third-year student, said, “The Student Leaders Dinner reminded me of the power of meaningful connection. I left feeling inspired by the conversations and excited for the future relationships and collaborations that will continue to build a stronger, more united campus community.”
Several student groups who had previously been hesitant to collaborate with Hillel are now attending programs, resharing Hillel’s content, and planning joint events. Many leaders expressed strong interest in upcoming workshops on antisemitism and Jewish allyship, with follow-up meetings already taking place. The dinner didn’t just create a moment, it sparked a movement of trust, collaboration, and shared purpose across campus.
Faith Fest: Multifaith Work in Action
Two months later, on April 27, 2025, Hillel collaborated with five other religious and cultural student organizations, all members of Kent’s Campus Religious Life Association, to host Faith Fest, a joyful, interactive multi-faith celebration that drew around 100 students.
With booths representing diverse traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and other world views students engaged in fun, educational experiences at each station. Kosher food, lawn games, and relaxed hangout areas created a welcoming environment, while deeper conversations were sparked throughout the afternoon between students and faith leaders, including Hillel’s Rabbi Michael Ross.
The response was overwhelmingly positive. Students stayed longer than expected, asked thoughtful questions, and voiced excitement about seeing faith celebrated in such an open, collaborative way. Josh Goldfarb, a third-year psychology student shared, “Faith Fest was tons of fun… After the event and seeing its success, I’ve been interested in the Multifaith student internship that put the event together.”
Advisors and campus ministers alike expressed appreciation for the space to connect across traditions. Plans are already underway to make this an annual event, and with the relationships now in place, we’re dreaming even bigger for next year.
Reflections and the Road Ahead
These events didn’t just succeed because of careful planning or good intentions. They succeeded because they were built on relationships. When we lead with curiosity and share our stories while honoring others’, we open the door to transformative possibilities.
The multifaith and intercultural connections we nurtured this year have already begun to bear fruit: new collaborations, new friendships, and new programs. Our social media reach has expanded through partners resharing our content. Student leaders are now actively working with us on projects that matter such as antisemitism education,shared Shabbat dinners, and campus dialogues. One of the groups that we partnered with is working with our students to create an Israeli Dead Sea Spa night to learn more about Israel and the Jewish faith.
If you’re a Jewish college student or a Hillel staff member wondering whether to get involved in multi-faith work, take the first step and get started. It will stretch you, challenge you, and ultimately strengthen you. Because when you help build a campus where everyone belongs, you’re not just changing the university, you’re shaping the world.
Michael Pollak is the outgoing assistant director at Kent State Hillel and the new assistant director at Rochester Hillel. His passion for multifaith work has inspired relationships and programs across multiple faith communities.
These programs are supported by Hillel International training and grants. Contact [email protected] to learn more.