UConn Hillel Focuses on Engaging, Safe Return to Campus Life

Through the First Year Students of Hillel (FYSH) program, outreach was made to all incoming students to welcome and encourage them to become part of the mentor program. UConn Hillel offered tours (following social distancing guidelines) of the Trachten-Zachs Hillel House during move-in weekend. During the two-week university quarantine period (August 14-30), they hosted several virtual events. They celebrated the first Shabbat of the semester together with a socially distanced “Shabbat Under the Stars” in UConn Hillel’s backyard. UConn Hillel is also providing students with a “Shabbag” (Shabbat bag), complete with electric votive candles, Kiddush cup, challah cover, grape juice, individual challah and Shabbat blessings to celebrate and observe Shabbat at home.

Rosh Hashanah services will be led again by Rabbi Ariella Rosen via Zoom. UConn Hillel’s backyard will be used in new and creative ways, weather-permitting, for hosting movie nights, karaoke, talent shows, comedians and bands. They remain hopeful that their new Israeli fellow, Sagi Gabay, will still be able to travel to the U.S. in early October. In the meantime, he will be offering a virtual Israel Learning Fellowship and other outreach to students.

The programming will be in accordance with UConn’s re-opening guidelines; in addition, UConn Hillel has also established a Reopening Hillel Task Force to develop additional guidelines for student safety.

“While we cannot change the unprecedented circumstances we are experiencing, we have the power to change how we respond to them. We know these times are challenging for students, their families and the entire UConn community, and all of us at Hillel are committed to continuing to provide a warm, welcoming, safe and inclusive home away from home,” state Executive Director Edina Oestreicher, Director of Engagement and Programs Jacqui Schulefand, and Director of Development Mark Block.

For more information, visit uconnhillel.org.