Bringing Students Together for Connection, Joy, and Learning
Hillel International’s Regional Gatherings Grant brought together more than 1,500 students in the 2025-2026 academic year.
When students have more opportunities to engage in joyful, meaningful Jewish experiences, they feel a stronger sense of belonging within their campus Jewish community — and that is what Hillel is all about. This year was full of incredible gatherings that brought more than 1,500 students from 120 campuses to learn, grow, and connect.
Where in the world are Jewish students gathering?
Joy, belonging, proud to be Jewish
More than two-thirds of the students who participated in regional gatherings felt more connected to community and their Jewish identities because of their participation.
Students find belonging and new communities when they gather across campuses:
For me, the Asian Jewish Shabbaton was a profound opportunity to connect with a network of Asian Jewish leaders and their stories. It was more than just an event; it was a moment of… honoring our heritage and shaping a new mosaic of what a distinct Asian Jewish culture can be.
Benjamin Nuland
Asian Jewish Shabbaton
Connecting with other Jewish students who shared similar goals created a powerful sense of belonging and mutual support. Most of all, the experience left me feeling deeply grateful to be a Jewish student, a Jewish leader, and part of the Florida Hillel community.
Chloe Hutt
Florida Student Leadership Gathering
Being around Jewish friends is one thing, but being in a community of Jewish students is something I’ll never be able to describe. This was a weekend I’ll never forget.