Celebrate A Student Like Ali Today!

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Our next story is about a Queen Esther at USD Hillel.

Meet Ali. She is one of our super-star students who found herself and her community this year. 

Even though she is a first-year student, Ali was chosen to participate in Hillel’s premier Leadership Retreat which brings together a handful of the top student leaders from each of Hillel of San Diego’s campuses to build leadership skills and map a vision for the Jewish experiences they want. 

“During the Havdalah service (at the retreat), we were all in a circle, singing, and it was a WOW moment for me. I realized that I love this more than anything and it hit me how powerful having a Jewish community can be.I made friends from all of the San Diego campuses. It’s opened up a world of possibilities for me.”

Give to Grow Jewish Connections

“Hillel is my perfect outlet! It gives me the Jewish community I want and the Jewish life I crave. I can share my creative ideas and know that the Hillel staff will listen and do everything possible to support me and the other USD student leaders so we can bring them to life.

Jewish life is what I’m passionate about. It fulfills me. I wouldn’t have this without Hillel.”

Empower Future Jewish Leaders


“I’m not afraid to show my Jewish identity on campus. Because of Hillel, I’m proud to tell people I’m Jewish. I tell everyone, Hillel is where you will feel supported and empowered.“

Strengthen Jewish Pride


P.S. Help students grow as leaders by making a gift by this Friday, March 14th. You can pledge now and send your gift later by check, through your DAF, IRA account, or by gifting stock. Hillel of San Diego’s Tax ID# is 33-0519225, and our office address is 5717 Lindo Paseo, San Diego, CA 92115. Please contact me at lkalal@hillelsd.org or 619-764-5992 with any questions.

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I wanted to reach out today, on Giving Tuesday, to share my story with you. Last fall, I arrived at UCSD knowing literally no one. Finding my community at Hillel of San Diego not only changed my college experience, it changed my life. Thanks to your past generosity, I found a place where I could be unapologetically Jewish, make friends at Shabbat, and step up as a leader.

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