As the largest Jewish student organization in the world, Hillel builds connections with emerging adults at more than 550 colleges and universities, and inspires them to direct their own path.  During their formative college years, students are challenged to explore, experience, and create vibrant Jewish lives. WCU Hillel is part of the larger Hillel International organization.

We welcome all students, Jewish or non-Jewish, to participate in our events. Hillel is a place where students can feel comfortable to explore their Judaism in many different ways. We provide Jewish learning programming so that students can learn more, but we encourage students to invite their friends to events so that we can continue to engage the community and create a shared experience!

No. We and Hillel International have never charged membership fees. We encourage students to get involved and shape the Hillel experience they want during their time in college. Hillel is supported by generous donors.

We have a part-time Rabbinic Intern, Faryn, who is studying at the Reconstructionist Rabbinical College. She works with students throughout the week to create meaningful relationships and guide them through their experience at WCU Hillel. She aids in Shabbat programming as well as Jewish learning opportunities.

A donation to WCU Hillel can largely impact the lives of our students. As students continue to discover themselves during their college years, we hope to continue supporting students by providing meaningful programming opportunities. We can only provide these events with the continued support of our donors. WCU Hillel and Hillel at large allows students to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel. Your generous tax-deductible donation will enable us to continue enriching the lives of these students.

We hope to see you at our events and programming throughout the year! Please reach out to our board members in person or online if interested in a leadership position. Feel free to reach out to Jenn Reiss, our Director of Jewish Student Life on Campus, with further questions or concerns.

Birthright is a FREE 10-day trip to Israel. Students qualify as long as ONE of their parents is Jewish. Participants include Jewish young adults between 18 and 32, who have not been on an organized program to Israel for longer than 4 months. This trip provides an experience of a lifetime as students explore the Jewish homeland and all it has to offer. Students bond with their group of approximately forty students and by going with WCU Hillel, these students can come back to campus with a new group of close friends and friendships that will last a lifetime. Students explore all regions of Israel, from the North to the South, and continue their learning on the trip as well. Students are accompanied by an Israeli tour guide, as well as a Jewish leader from their Hillel or nearby area, and an Israel fellow. Additionally, half way through the trip, students meet a group of Israeli soldiers (their age) who spend part of the trip with them. While students can go on Birthright after college or with another group, we encourage students to go with WCU Hillel at a time that is meaningful for them during their college experience.

We are fortunate to be supported by Kesher Israel, a conservative synagogue within a 5 minute drive from campus. WCU Hillel partners with them for events, such as our annual Shabbat in the Sukkah dinner. We hope to continue providing opportunities for students to attend events with Kesher Israel in the future