What is Hillel?
Hillel is the largest foundation for Jewish campus life in the world! It was first started at the University of Illinois in 1923. Today, there are more than 500+ campus chapters throughout the United States and Canada. The Hillel's mission statement is “to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world.” The local goal of UNL’s Hillel is to be a place for fellow Jewish students to interact and socialize. We strive to provide a positive Jewish learning experience in a friendly environment.
Hillel at UNL
We hope to provide a “home away from home,” for all Jewish students, especially on Jewish holidays and festivals. Events are targeted towards students of all spiritual backgrounds including Reform, Conservative, and Orthodox. Many of our events, including Shabbat dinners and festive meals, are held in the Jackie Gaughan Multicultural Center and the Student Union.
During the academic year, the UNL Hillel partakes in cultural and religious activities such as guest speakers, Holocaust remembrance, and philanthropic initiatives that involve the Jewish communities of Lincoln and Omaha. The UNL Hillel welcomes all students, regardless of their religious identity, that have an interest in learning about Judaism and Jewish life on campus. Any Jewish students in Nebraska at the undergraduate or graduate level are welcome to attend any programs. Events are always free of admission unless stated otherwise!
Here are some of the activities our group has during the academic year:
- Friday evening Shabbat dinners
- Attending services at local synagogues for Shabbat and other holidays
- Host Rosh Hashanah dinner, “Break the Fast” after Yom Kippur, annual Chanukah and Purim Parties, and Passover Seders
- Building an on campus Sukkah
- Organizing joint events with Jewish students from other college campuses
How to join today!
We welcome students of all backgrounds who are interested in learning about Jewish life on campus. Email us today to learn how you can get involved.
Be sure to check us out on our Instagram!
Synagogues in Lincoln
There are two synagogues in Lincoln. One reform and one conservative. Here is their information for students interested in getting involved in a Jewish community outside of Hillel.
Tifereth Israel (Conservative)
3219 Sheridan Boulevard
Lincoln, NE 68502
Office: (402) 423-8569
South Street Temple (Reform)
B'nai Jershurun
2061 South 20th Street
Lincoln, NE 68502
Office: (402) 435-8004
Contact
Email
Hillel at UNL
(hillel@unl.edu)
Faculty Advisor
Ari Kohen
(akohen2@unl.edu)
Address
Gaughan Multicultural Center
1505 S Street
Lincoln, NE 68508
Who was Hillel?
Hillel was a sage known for his wisdom. He founded a school of thought and had many disciples. His messages were great lessons during his time and still ring true today.
Hillel said, "If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, who am I? If not now, when?"
Pirkei Avot