The Hillels of Georgia Weekly Chai-Lights Reel

ISSUE NO. 21 | VOL. 2026

A Mizrahi Night to Remember at Hillel UGA

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Students gathered for a "Mizrachi Jews Night" that brought Jewish learning to life around the table. Through Shir’s family story and traditional Moroccan and Tunisian dishes, students experienced the richness and diversity of Mizrachi Jewish culture. The evening created space for meaningful conversation, connection, and pride in the many stories that make up Jewish identity. At Hillel, moments like these show how Jewish life on campus comes alive through shared experiences and community.

Let The Good Times Roll at Emory Hillel

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At Emory, Take Care Tuesday turned into a sushi-making night with students rolling everything from salmon to veggie combinations. One student commented, “it was fun getting to make sushi with my friends. A great study break!”

The best part wasn’t even planned. After posting about leftover ingredients, three freshmen showed up, two of whom had never really been to Hillel before. They stayed, made sushi bowls, and just spent time together at the Marcus Hillel Center. The evening was easy, low-key, and exactly the kind of moment where people start to feel like home at Emory.

A Living Memorial on Campus at Georgia Tech

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At Georgia Tech, students participated in the annual Daffodil Project, planting flowers as part of a global effort to remember the children who were killed in the Holocaust.

There’s something simple but powerful about doing something physical, together, that will last.

“I really enjoyed being able to organize this project for our campus community and leave a lasting impact on campus. I love the mission of this project and am grateful to be a part of it and contribute annually. I believe this is our fifth annual daffodil planting on campus and it is so lovely to see the flowers spread further over campus! The impact of this organization is so critical and knowing that we have contributed even a small percentage to their overall goal of 1.5 million daffodils is such a great feeling.”

• Talia Sachs, Class of 2028

You’ll see those flowers again soon, and when you do, you’ll know exactly why they’re there.

Students gathered for a Purim Lunch & Learn exploring “Why Purim is the Queerest Holiday on the Jewish Calendar.” Afterward, students created noisemakers and performed their own Purimspiel.

“I learned a lot from this program! I only knew a little about Purim before, so it was really cool learning more about the holiday and how it connects to the LGBTQ+ journey.” – Edgar Monroe

The program created space for Jewish students to share their traditions while welcoming many non-Jewish peers into the celebration.

Showing Up Online with Confidence

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At Kennesaw State, students joined the "Talk Israel Workshop" with Kami Salman focused on navigating social media and responding to antisemitism online.

What stood out most was the approach: instead of centering arguments or conflict, the focus was on sharing Jewish joy and positive Israel experiences.

Students talked about how often they’re seeing anti-Israel content online and how hard it can be to know what to say or how to respond. The evening gave them something more practical: tools, language, and confidence. It was less about “fighting back” and more about feeling comfortable showing up as their authentic selves.

Shabbat, But Make it Spooky

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At Georgia Southern, Shabbat dinner came with a Friday the 13th twist. Students gathered to light candles, eat challah, and then watched a movie together. Nothing complicated; just a good night with good people.

“The fun, casual atmosphere of the Shabbat movie night was perfect for assembling existing Hillel members and welcoming new, prospective friends! We ate challah, laughed together, and enjoyed a relaxing evening, with a spooky twist.”— Willow Farmer

It’s a great example of how Shabbat doesn’t have to look one specific way to feel meaningful.