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Hillel News
February at Hillel 818
February might be the shortest month of the year, but at Hillel 818 it’s been one of our busiest months yet!
From Making Jews to Makerspace: The Ben Braunstein Story
When Ben Braunstein agreed to work for Hillel 818 he had one condition that was non-negotiable: Anything he created for Hillel 818, whether it be software, a new app, or an original mezuzah design he would retain ownership over the intellectual property. At his heart, Ben has always been a creator and a builder. While helping us open our brand new building and modernizing our systems of operations, Ben has kept working on his entrepreneurial dream - to open up a makerspace for builders and craftspeople to build things and make crafts.
You Had Me at Hillel: Josh and Rachel's Love Story
Sometimes there’s an invisible string tying two people together and it takes them a bit of time to discover it. Such was the case with Hillel 818 alumnae Joshua Schleien and Rachel Katz.
Remembering Sam Yellen
In the heart of our community, we fondly remember the life and legacy of Sam Yellen, a vibrant soul whose impact radiated far beyond our neighborhood. With his warm spirit, Sam was more than just a beloved neighbor, he was a force at California State University Northridge (CSUN), Temple Aliyah (now Hamakom), and throughout the Los Angeles Jewish community.
Inside the Israel Leadership Forum
After the October 7 attacks on Israel, discussing Israel on college campuses, especially for Jewish students, has become challenging. On campus and online, students face antisemitism and opposition to their public support for Israel. To address this, Hillel 818 partnered with the Jewish Federation of Los Angeles, USC Hillel, and UCLA Hillel to organize the Israel Leadership Forum on January 14 and 15. Over 100 students from Southern California attended to learn, discuss, and hear from a wide range of speakers on what it means to be an Israel leader and advocate on campus.
Hillel 818 Executive Director chosen for Wexner Field Fellowship
A hearty mazal tov to our Executive Director Matt Baram, who is one of the 15 outstanding Jewish professionals from North America selected for Class 8 of the prestigious Wexner Field Fellowship!
Hillel 818 Semester Recap
We’re looking back on this year at Hillel as we get ready for 2024!
A Campus Update from Hillel 818
We've spent countless hours with students helping them process the news, giving hugs and comfort, coaching them on how to respond to anti-Israel and antisemitic activity, and creating opportunities to learn more deeply about what's happening in Israel. Most importantly, at a time when Jews feel alone, anxious, and scared, Hillel 818 has helped our students feel safe and supported while boldly celebrating Jewish joy.
Our Commitment to Israel and Our Students
In the aftermath of the October 7th terrorist attack in Israel, and with the war in Gaza actively raging, our community continues to join Jews around the world in mourning and in pain.
To our students our message remains resolute: you are not alone.