Ok, so that was pretty perfect.

Copy of Hillel-IMG_6721-2026

Full disclosure, we were very nervous about hosting our first fundraiser in 10 years. This evening represented more than a fun party. It was a chance to highlight our intentional design around user experience that cultivates meaningful connections and belonging – basically the work we do every day for our students. And you know what?

It was amazing! Our community had a blast receiving the Hillel of San Diego treatment from the moment they walked in.

One of my favorite parts of the Back to School Bash was that everything was always with our next generation in mind. We didn’t rent a ballroom, we repainted our Melvin Garb Hillel Center. We didn’t hire an auctioneer, I ran the paddle raise (which was terrifying but ultimately so inspiring) so that everything went back to our purpose – caring for our next generation.

Our community saw how we utilize philanthropy with a clear mission focus of serving 4,000 students with wrap-around holistic care. They experienced our commitment to innovative excellence. And they felt how our students feel, because Hillel is home.

All the details, from the student impact stories in the bathroom stalls to the drinks named after our programs, all the way to how the room was set up for conversation and fun. Nothing happened by coincidence. It was highly calculated intentionality around user experience. At the Bash, you got a home. You got a community. You got wrap-around holistic care that centered YOUR experience.

Because that’s our brand at Hillel of San Diego.

And if that’s not enough, you got to meet some of the remarkable students you support everyday. Learn about YOUR impact when you watch the short (we promise, it’s only 3 minutes) video we shared at the event.

It’s really all about our future, and our community felt that at our Back to School Bash.

You can check out more photos from the Bash here and make sure to follow us on Instagram @Hillelsd to learn more about the work you are helping make possible.

AND whether your FOMO (fear of missing out) is high from missing the Bash or you are still beaming from having the best time ever, I want to invite you to our next Jewish Networking Hub (JNH) event on November 3rd, where we’ll be talking about all things AI with experts. You can register here.

We can’t wait to see you there!

Shabbat Shalom, 
Karen

P.S. If you are ready to jump in and support students, please consider joining us with a gift to Hillel. Right now, we are already seeing more students more often and could use your support. You can donate here.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Other Stories From Hillel

We’re standing with Bryan, Sheava, and Hillel

December 10, 2025

On Monday, you heard from our son Bryan and his wife Sheava about why they support Hillel of San Diego and why they are committed to helping raise $500,000 for Jewish college students by December 31, the first $50,000 of which will be matched, dollar-for-dollar. Their message of why this moment matters and why supporting our young adults is so urgent reminded us of the responsibility we all share to lift up this next generation. That is why we are joining them in this effort.

What Could Go Right?

December 8, 2025

As we help kick off Hillel of San Diego’s year-end fundraiser, I can’t help but reflect on the moment that first made me and Sheava believe in this important work. It was the day the Glickman Hillel Center at UCSD opened its doors after twenty years of persistence. I saw what it means for Jewish young adults to have a place they can count on, and what a community can accomplish together. That is why Sheava and I became supporters, and why we remain committed as Hillel of San Diego has grown into one of the most impactful Hillels in the country.

This one is worth opening – I promise!

December 2, 2025

I know you’ve likely gotten a ton of emails today, but I had to send one on behalf of Hillel of San Diego! This is Noa (SDSU, Class of ‘28), and we’re down to the wire on Giving Tuesday. The $25,000 donor match is about to disappear, and we hope donors like you are racing to grab the final funds! We’re SO close to hitting our goal.

Scroll to Top