We are committed to growing and developing Jewish Life on campus. Student leaders of Hillel Jewish student organization work with our director to create a vibrant Jewish community. Our community is proud to affiliate with Hillel International.
The Hillel House is the hub for Jewish life at Susquehanna. Students host large Shabbat dinners and a variety of other programs. Hillel house is a former home that provides space for students to engage in Jewish programs, hang out, watch TV, study and create community. Our Kosher kitchen provides a space for students to learn about Judaism and to cook delicious food. Holiday celebrations are held here throughout the year.
Friday Shabbat dinners are a celebration of Jewish identity and community. Our dinners are often a full house as we connect to a variety of campus communities. We welcome ALL students and community members regardless of background. Our all-gender restroom and wheelchair-friendly entrance is part of our effort to create a welcoming space for all.
What else should you know about Jewish Life at Susquehanna?
- Our Jewish & Israel Studies minor offers a regular cycle of courses and learning opportunities.
- There are about 70 self-identified Jewish students on campus. Congregation Beth El in Sunbury is about 15 minutes away. It is a non-affiliated congregation.
- Hillel actively communicates with other regional college Jewish communities, including at Bucknell University, Dickinson College, Juniata College, and Franklin and Marshal College.
- Instructors work with students to make allowances for students who wish to return home for High Holidays or who worship locally and may need to miss class.
- Hillel hosts a 150-person Passover Seder each year. This is one of the largest events for Hillel each year. Limited kosher food is available during Passover in the university cafeteria. Arrangements can be made to use the kosher kitchen in the Hillel House as well.