It’s Waylon – We need to talk

IMG-20251012-WA0027 (1)
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.

Your continued support is what makes this welcoming Jewish home possible for me and the more than 3,000 students on campus just when we need it most.

Today, your gift will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000 by an anonymous donor! This Giving Tuesday, you have the power to DOUBLE the warmth and belonging Hillel provides. Every dollar you give goes straight toward empowering students like me to find success on campus and beyond.

With Hillel by my side, I felt validated and empowered to lead as a first-year student. With your support, I’m building a permanent legacy for my friends and future Jewish San Diegans.

  • I launched FYSH (First Year Students of Hillel), an initiative now serving nearly 80 Jewish students, creating a space for new students to find connection in a busy world.
  • I grew into a campus leader, joining Tritons for Israel and finding college and career inspiration through our Jewish Networking Hub.
  • And now? I’m launching Triton Jewish Life to bring Jewish life visibly onto campus!

This work is right at the heart and soul of Hillel’s mission. The lasting impact of their work starts with students just like me, strengthening my Jewish identity and spirit. Your support ensures this vital infrastructure continues, fostering Jewish pride and leadership for years to come.

Will you take advantage of this 2X match and renew your support and help secure the future of Jewish life?

Thank you for supporting me and San Diego’s Jewish students!

Waylon, UCSD ‘28

Other Stories From Hillel

San Diego Jewish Community Leaders Respond to Hate Speech in City Council Meeting 

September 20, 2023

 Together as members of the Antisemitism Roundtable and as leaders in San Diego’s Jewish Community, we thank the San Diego City Council, which unanimously condemned […]

Summer Vibes from San Diego to Israel

June 8, 2023

As the season of graduation fills the air with a mix of emotions, we celebrate the incredible journey of our Hillel students, their transition evoking […]

From Israel to Campus: Resilience and Hope

May 18, 2023

On the last day of the San Diego Jewish Federation’s CommUNITY trip to Israel, as I made my way through the halls of the new […]

Scroll to Top