SEPTEMBER

 

Emma Kaufman Camp proved to be the perfect venue to host the Hillel JUC's first off-campus leadership retreat. 25 students bonded in a relaxed setting around the campfire as they learned about their shared goals as leaders on campus.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JANUARY

 

Hillel JUC students responded to the intense anti-Israel activity on campus by hosting several events, including the Israel consul general. Students planned counter demonstrations on campus, and even formed a new student group - Coalition of Students for Israel - Pittsburgh.

 

 

MARCH

 

Former neo-Nazi spoke emotionally at Pitt about his past life as one of the most successful organizers of the white supremacist movement. Students were on the edges of their seats as he educated them about hate and tolerance.

 OCTOBER

 

Challah for Hunger, a new student group launched in the fall, has taken challah to the next level! The group gathers in Hillel's kitchen twice a month to bake challah, sell it on campus and donate the proceeds to support those suffering in Darfur.

 

 

 

 

 

 

FEBRUARY

 

The Hillel JUC's own a cappella group, the Vokols, enjoyed a 3rd year of successful performances within the community. These extremely talented singers performed both American pop hits and Israeli music at various venues throughout the year. 

 

 

APRIL

 

CMU students swept our Campus SuperStar event on April 5th, where over 1,300 students and community members not only helped support our biggest fundraising event of the year, but were also entertained by the 10 extraordinary vocalists. The grand prize was a $5,000 scholarship which was awarded to CMU student, Roberta Burke.

DECEMBER

 

The Hillel JUC and its students won several awards at the University of Pittsburgh's annual Blue Stars & Red Carpets ceremony: Outstanding Community Service Award (Hillel JUC), Outstanding Business Manager of the Year – Corey Burr; Star of Distinction – Eric Hoerger; CCLD Director’s Award – Carly Adelmann & Rebecca Lustig; Community Service Award – Marc Schutzbank

 

 

MARCH

 

Over 30 students participated in alternative spring break trips to rural Guatemala, Israel, and an organic farm in California. While contributing to "tikkun olam" (repairing the world), students also experienced life-changing events and formed bonding relationships with other Jewish students.

 

 

 

 

APRIL

 

Passover seders reached over 300 students this year, with the Hillel JUC sponsoring 5 different seders to observe and celebrate the holiday. Students commented that the atmosphere was not only warm and inviting, but that the overall experience was fun, meaningful and moving.