Hillel at VCU celebrates a semester of growth and Jewish Life
Originally published in The Reflector
Hillel at VCU celebrates a semester of growth and Jewish Life
As the spring semester came to a close, Hillel at VCU celebrated one of its most vibrant and engaging seasons yet. Marked by strong student leadership, expanded programming, and deepened connections to Judaism, the past few months have underscored Hillel’s vital role in campus life.
Under the guidance of Executive Director Sheri Rodman, Springboard Fellow Kayla Seabolt, and a dedicated student board, Hillel at VCU has created a welcoming home for Jewish students of all backgrounds.
The photos in the article show a variety of activities and programs.
From Shabbat dinners to social gatherings, the organization has worked to foster a sense of belonging and community.
“Hillel was an integral part of my time at VCU. Joining Hillel gave me the opportunity to learn about Judaism in a way that felt personal to my life and gave me a different perspective on what Judaism could be,” said Kayla Seabolt, Hillel at VCU’s Springboard Fellow and VCU alum.
“Now, I get to spend my days with young Jewish people helping them foster their own Jewish identity and create their own communities. It is so meaningful to me that Hillel provides a space for us all to grow in our Jewish journeys together.”
Highlights from the semester included welcoming students into the new Hillel House, conveniently located near campus on Grace Street, hosting an inaugural “Alumni Shabbat” bringing together current students and VCU alumni for a delicious dinner and conversation, and many educational programs like a craft night focused on Tu B’Shvat and a “lunch and learn” about why Purim is the queerest Jewish holiday. It was inspiring to see students take ownership of their Jewish learning and watch them support each other’s growth with such enthusiasm.
“This year, Hillel has given me a community of friends that I can be myself with and continuously learn from,” said freshman student Mara Lobley. “Hillel has given me a home away from home.”
Before finals week, Hillel closed out the semester with a final Shabbat dinner in the Hillel House followed by a few impromptu karaoke performances. It felt like the end of summer camp as students hugged each other goodbye.
“Our goal is to help students feel proud, connected, and empowered in their Jewish identity,” said Sheri Rodman. “This semester showed just how much is possible when we come together with purpose.”
While students were finishing their exams and packing their bags, we participated in Hillel International’s sixth annual Hillel Global Giving Week, joining Hillels around the world in an inspiring campaign to sustain Jewish life on campus.
Hillel at VCU received 72 individual gifts for a total of $12,896. With three $5,000 matches, they received a total of $27,896! Many thanks to all who supported the campaign. Because of you, Jewish students have a welcoming, vibrant community on campus—one where they can celebrate their identity, build friendships, and grow as leaders.
Students and staff can’t wait to witness the incredible moments your generosity makes possible.
Plans are already underway for next semester, with hopes of expanding outreach and deepening ties with the university, other Hillels across the state, and the greater Richmond Jewish community.
With a successful spring behind them, Hillel at VCU looks forward to the future—full of meaningful connections, student leadership, and Jewish joy.
