“Hillel has given me the opportunity to find community on campus and grow my leadership skills.”— Caylie Brennan, Georgia Tech

ISSUE NO. 4 | VOL. 27

November is flying by, and our campuses are buzzing with activity! From meaningful conversations and student-led initiatives to new friendships and familiar faces, our students spent another week strengthening their Jewish communities, creating lasting memories, and making Jewish life thrive across Georgia.

Holocaust Survivor Michael Bornstein

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UGA Hillel welcomed Holocaust survivor Michael Bornstein for an unforgettable evening of reflection, resilience, and remembrance. Through his powerful story of survival, Bornstein reminded attendees of the importance of preserving history, confronting antisemitism, and ensuring the lessons of the Holocaust are never forgotten.

Nearly 100 people from across the community gathered for this meaningful event, including UGA President Jere Morehead, members of the university administration, UGA students, parents, faculty, local religious leaders, and high school students studying antisemitism.

The evening brought together people of different generations and backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to listening, learning, and remembering. Hearing firsthand testimony from a Holocaust survivor offered attendees a deeply personal connection to history and a powerful reminder of the responsibility we all share to carry these stories forward.

The incredible turnout reflected the strength of the UGA community and the importance of creating spaces for meaningful conversations, education, and connection.

GCSU Ice Cream Meet-Up

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GCSU Hillel students took a break from their busy schedules to enjoy an afternoon of ice cream, boba tea, and good company at a new sweet spot in downtown Milledgeville. Rolled ice cream was a crowd favorite, but the real highlight was the opportunity to slow down, catch up, and spend time with fellow Jewish students.

GCSU Hillel Director Netta shared a special moment from the gathering. Wearing her Israel Air Force shirt, she mentioned to students how grateful she felt to be part of a campus community where she could proudly express her Jewish and Israeli identity without feeling unsafe. The students hadn't even considered why wearing the shirt might be uncomfortable or raise safety concerns on another campus. For them, feeling safe and accepted was simply part of their everyday experience at GCSU.

At a time when many Jewish college students across the country face challenges expressing their identities openly, this seemingly small interaction spoke volumes about the campus environment at Georgia College.

First Year Leadership Council Sushi and Spikeball 

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Georgia Tech Hillel's First-Year Leadership Council brought students together for an afternoon of sushi, spikeball, pickles, and community building in the heart of campus!

Planned and organized by first-year students, the event was more than just an opportunity to enjoy good food and friendly competition. It was a chance for emerging student leaders to take ownership, build confidence, and strengthen connections within Georgia Tech's Jewish community.

Leading the charge was Caylie Brennan, First-Year Leadership Council Chair, who successfully organized and ran the event alongside her fellow first-year students. From planning and promotion to execution, Caylie and her council demonstrated what student leadership looks like in action.

Reflecting on her experience, Caylie shared:

"Hillel has given me the opportunity to find community on campus and grow my leadership skills. As First-Year Leadership Council Chair, I have led a cohort of new Jewish students on campus. My experience in Hillel has taught me that leadership stems from compassion and service."

She also emphasized the impact of bringing the event to life, sharing how organizing Sushi and Spikeball helped her and her peers develop valuable skills in communication, teamwork, and people management, all with the encouragement and support of Georgia Tech Hillel staff.

At Georgia Tech Hillel, students aren't just participating in Jewish life on campus. They're helping shape it.

Exploring Ethiopian Jewish Culture Through Sigd

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Students came together to explore the rich traditions and history of Ethiopian Jewish culture while learning about Sigd, a meaningful holiday celebrated by the Ethiopian Jewish community. The event offered students an opportunity to expand their understanding of Jewish diversity while enjoying traditional Ethiopian cuisine.

“Never knew there was so much to learn about Ethiopian culture, especially the Jewish history,” shared one student.

With 18 students in attendance, the gathering was especially meaningful as it welcomed several students who don't regularly participate in Hillel programming. Through food, learning, and conversation, students discovered new ways to connect with their Jewish heritage and one another.

KSU Students Take Fun to New Heights at Air Adventure

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Kennesaw State University Hillel students enjoyed an exciting social night at Air Adventure, bringing together 10 undergraduate students for an evening of fun, games, and connection. Away from the demands of campus life, students had the opportunity to unwind, strengthen friendships, and build new relationships in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Events like these help foster a sense of belonging and strengthen the Jewish community at KSU, creating meaningful connections that extend beyond campus.