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.”

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.


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.


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.

Other Stories From Hillel

Heart of Hillel: Meet Sonia

November 14, 2025

Sonia is a retired UCSD faculty member and a proud parent of Triton and Torero alumni. She didn’t have Hillel when she was in college, but she made sure her children did. And once she saw the impact Hillel had on them, she jumped in with both feet, eventually joining the Hillel of San Diego Board of Directors.

Heart of Hillel: Brad & Karen

November 6, 2025

Brad and Karen’s story is one of legacy, family, and deep belief in the power of Jewish community.

You’re going to want to read this!

November 2, 2025

Your support is what makes Jewish life on campus thrive and ensures a strong Jewish future for all of us. So for the month of November, we want to talk about and celebrate the people who make it all possible and share YOUR impact. Hillel of San Diego thrives because of parents, alumni, San Diegans, and everyone who believes in the power of the next generation.

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