The Hillels of Georgia Weekly Chai-Lights Reel

Hillels of Georgia
Sep 19, 2025
4 min read

ISSUE NO. 04 | VOL. 2026

A New Year, A New Era of Leadership: LSLI Statewide Gathering

Over 65 students from 10 colleges and universities across Georgia came together over the weekend to launch the Leven-Silberman Leadership Institute (LSLI), a bold new program from Hillels of Georgia designed to shape the future of Jewish leadership.

Timed to coincide with the start of the Jewish New Year, the kickoff embodied the spirit of renewal, connection, and growth.

From the start, the impact of this event was undeniable. 88% of students reported feeling a greater sense of belonging in their campus Jewish communities, while 90% said they left more confident in their leadership abilities. Students also shared that meeting peers from other Hillels across Georgia (and connecting with Jewish professionals beyond Hillel) were among the most meaningful parts of the gathering.

“I was encouraged to be unapologetically myself in expressing my Jewish identity and support for Israel.”

“Hearing different Jewish experiences showed me that we’re not alone, even when our campuses look very different.”

“The networking lunch helped me realize how many Jewish professionals are ready to support us.”

Workshops on communication, event planning, and community-building gave students tangible skills to bring back to their campuses. As one participant shared: “The most valuable thing I learned at LSLI was how to communicate effectively about events, and I loved connecting with other Jewish students across the state."

And this is only the beginning. Throughout the year, Hillels of Georgia will host workshops, another statewide gathering, and mentorship opportunities with some of Georgia’s most inspiring Jewish leaders.

Thank you to all who joined us for this powerful kickoff. We can’t wait to share more in the months ahead.

For more information regarding the Leven-Silberman Leadership Institute, please visit hillelsofgeorgia.org/lsli.

Savannah Shabbat Kicks Off the New School Year

SCAD Hillel students gathered for a warm and welcoming Shabbat dinner, where returning and new students alike felt the joy of community after a long summer break.

“It was so great to be back and see all of my friends after a long week of work and study,” shared Zac Levy (Class of 2026), who reflected on the friendships and sense of belonging he has built through Shabbat. This dinner also provided a special opportunity to welcome incoming SCAD students and their families, as everyone introduced themselves, shared highlights from their week, and helped new students feel at home. “They all shared how excited they are to have found a home at SCAD in Hillel,” Zac noted, emphasizing the importance of creating a safe space where Jewish students can proudly embrace their identity and find lasting connections.

Israeli Students Feel "Ba-Bayit" (At Home) At Hillel UGA Dinner

Israeli students came together at the Orkin Hillel UGA Center for a special Mishelanu Dinner hosted by Shir, Hillel UGA’s Israel Fellow. Over delicious food and meaningful conversation, students bonded, shared stories, and celebrated the unique connection of building community far from home. For many, it was a reminder that Hillel UGA is a place where Israeli students can feel supported, connected, and proud of their identity.

Goofy Powerpoints + Guitar Solos Bring Jewish Joy to KSU Hillel

KSU Hillel students gathered for a night of laughter and creativity at PowerPoint Night, where they pulled silly presentation titles out of a hat and had to present on the spot - no prep allowed! The room was full of giggles as nine students took turns leaning into the silliness. Earlier in the week, a bagel break turned into an impromptu jam session with guitar and singing, setting the tone for an unforgettable year of community and fun.

'Take Care Tuesdays' Series Launches at Emory Hillel

Emory Hillel students kicked off the very first Take Care Tuesday wellness event by building their own Lego succulents, which were a creative and relaxing way to decorate dorm rooms while connecting with friends.

“I saw the event on Instagram and was immediately drawn to it,” shared Josephine DeMarco. “I’m not as religious, so I loved the idea of a relaxing social event where I could still be part of the Hillel community and meet other Jewish students.”

Josephine's experience reflects the heart of the program: creating a welcoming space for all, blending relaxation, creativity, and community.

Creativity and Community Shine at Arts & Crafts Night

Students gathered in Hillel at Georgia Tech’s new space for an evening of painting and coaster-making, adding their own personal touch to help decorate our new home. The night was filled with creativity, laughter, and connection as students got to know one another and begin making the space truly theirs.

Cornhole, Coffee Chats, and Building Community at Georgia College Hillel

At Georgia College Hillel, students are already making the most of their time with their new campus director, whether enjoying a casual game of cornhole at the Hillel House during the new "Study N Snack" program, or sitting down with Netta, GCSU Hillel Campus Director, for coffee chats to share their hopes and ideas for the year ahead. With Parents Weekend just around the corner, excitement is building as students take ownership of creating a vibrant Jewish experience on campus. Having a dedicated Hillel House and campus director at Georgia College means more than just a place to hang out. It’s a growing hub where students can relax, connect with one another, and build a supportive Jewish community that continues to expand year after year.

GSU Hillel Welcomes Fresh Faces at Campus-Wide Fair

GSU Hillel made its mark at Georgia State University’s Student Organization Fair, connecting with students from across campus and sharing the vision of a vibrant, welcoming Jewish community. The fair served as a first point of connection for many students, where they were introduced to Hillels of Georgia’s mission, invited to upcoming programs, and learned that Jewish life is visible, accessible, and thriving at Georgia State. Each new relationship formed at the fair helps spark the potential for a lifelong Jewish journey.

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