The Hillels of Georgia Weekly Chai-Lights Reel

ISSUE NO. 13 | VOL. 2026

Join Us + Inspire the Next Generation of Jewish Leaders

LEARN MORE

Emory Hillel MTF Reunion + A Night with the Consul General

READ MORE

Emory students reunited with their Maccabee Task Force (MTF) cohort, both Jewish and non-Jewish alumni alike, for a powerful evening of reflection and connection. The following night, student leaders sat down with the new Israeli Consul General, Eitan Weiss, for a lively conversation about Israel, identity, and leadership. “I’m grateful that everyone showed up with their own lens and insight; it really elevated the entire discussion” shared one student. Perhaps most interesting was a lively debate between the Consul General and a student examining how remarks made by local politicians may be interpreted as anti-Zionist or antisemitic.

Meet Sam Ceisler, Our New Engagement Associate at Hillel UGA

READ MORE

UGA Hillel is thrilled to welcome Sam Ceisler, our new Engagement Associate! Sam has already hit the ground running, meeting students, planning spring programs, and bringing fresh energy to Jewish life at the Orkin Hillel Center.

Sam comes to UGA with a rich and varied background, from work in the service industry to teaching with Meriden Public Schools, the Breakthrough Collaborative, and the University of Da Nang. He holds a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Oregon and a bachelor’s in English composition and film from Binghamton University.

He’s excited to get to know, learn from, and support the incredible students who call Athens home. Read more about Sam and all of our dedicated professionals who work together to power Jewish life across Georgia at https://www.hillelsofgeorgia.org/our-team.

Art, Connection & Finals-Week Reset with KSU Hillel

READ MORE

KSU students took a much-needed finals break to paint, bead, laugh, and unwind together. “Last night was definitely top three moments at Hillel. Everyone opened up and was very real with each other,” shared Cameron Keskonis ’26. Winter-themed art, Hanukkah vibes, and new friendships made it a night to remember.

Interfaith Holiday Hoopla at Georgia Tech

READ MORE

For the 5th year, Hillel and Grace House came together for Holiday Hoopla, an interfaith celebration of Chanukah, Advent, cookies, latkes, and gift-giving. Students shared traditions, built bridges, and strengthened community across campus. “It is refreshing to be with our larger GT community who have different beliefs,” one student reflected.

Hillel at Georgia State Lights Up Hanukkah

READ MORE

Hillel at Georgia State students gathered to celebrate Hanukkah with crafts, candle-lighting, and community. It was a calm, joy-filled moment in a busy season; “a reminder that Jewish joy lives in these small, meaningful moments.”