| Continuing Our Heart of Hillel Series… Each week this month, we’re spotlighting the donors whose generosity, vision, and heart make Jewish life on campus not just possible — but vibrant, joyful, and deeply rooted. Donors and friends like you. This week, we’re honored to feature Kira: Hillel of San Diego Board Member and proud member of our Legacy Society. Meet Kira! Kira’s Hillel story began as an undergraduate at USD, where she was one of only four Jewish students on campus. For Kira, there were no Shabbat dinners. No immersive Jewish learning. No visible Jewish community. Fast forward to today: USD, a Catholic university, is alive with nearly 250 Jewish students celebrating Jewish life! Shabbat tables are filled with laughter, and students are proudly wearing Hillel merch on campus. Jewish student leaders, mentored by Hillel of San Diego, are creating a strong presence on campus through inclusive Shabbats, Jewish holiday celebrations, Israel and Holocaust education, and building friendships that feel like family. Kira was one of the very first donors to support Hillel of San Diego’s USD campaign years ago — and now, seeing this thriving Jewish community come to life, she feels something profound: |
“To now see a thriving Hillel of San Diego program at USD, with so many Jewish students engaged, gives me an immense sense of pride. It’s a testament to the vital work Hillel does in creating spaces where Jewish identity can grow and flourish.” – Kira
Kira understands that, right here, right now, Hillel is a launchpad for the next generation of Jewish leaders. That’s why, along with joining our Board and being a generous supporter of our annual campaign, she joined our Legacy Society with more than 130 of you. She’s making a lasting commitment to ensure that future students feel the same belonging, connection, and leadership opportunities that shaped her own journey.
“If we don’t invest in these students, who will? Supporting Hillel of San Diego is more than just a financial commitment; it’s an investment in the future of our community and the leaders who will shape it.” – Kira
Kira’s story reminds us: Hillel of San Diego serves 3,000+ students each year, sparking identity, cultivating leaders, and building Jewish life for generations.
Because of Jewish community leaders like her — and donors like you — Jewish life on campus doesn’t just exist. It thrives. It inspires. It endures.
With gratitude,
Lisa Kalal
Senior Advancement Officer
Hillel of San Diego
