What Belonging Looks Like

Stories, questions, and moments that make Jewish community feel like home.

Elizabeth Lane, Hillel419 Executive Director

What does belonging feel like? I think about this often, especially here at Hillel419. Sometimes it shows up in the big moments, like celebrating Shabbat with students for the first time or seeing a campus event bring together students from all backgrounds. Other times it is the small, quiet moments, like a student sharing a personal story, a board member checking in on a grad student, or an alum reaching out to stay connected. Those moments remind me why Hillel exists, to make everyone feel seen, supported, and part of something larger.

Belonging looks different for everyone in our community. For students, it might be the first time they meet someone who shares their Jewish journey or the first bite of a holiday meal that reminds them of home. For alumni, it might be remembering the ways Hillel shaped their college experience and Jewish identity. For parents, it might be pride in seeing their student grow and thrive in a supportive community. For me, as Executive Director, it is about creating space for all of these experiences to happen and supporting a table where everyone has a place.

At the same time, I know that being Jewish on campus is not always easy. Students face challenges that can make it harder to show up as their full selves, whether that is navigating antisemitism or simply the pressure of balancing school and identity. Hillel is here to show up alongside them. We provide safe spaces to connect, programs to explore Jewish learning and leadership, and a community that listens and supports. Our work is not just about reacting to challenges, but about creating joy, belonging, and resilience so every student knows they have a place at our table.

At Hillel419, we are building this table together, a space for staff, board members, students, alumni, and parents to share, listen, and learn from each other. Belonging is not about having all the answers. It is about showing up, connecting, and making room for many voices and perspectives. That is the shared table we are growing every day, and it is a privilege to be part of it.

As we continue to grow our shared table, I hope each of you will take a moment to reflect on what belonging means in your own life. Who has made space for you? Where have you felt seen and supported? And how might you make room for others in your community, on campus or beyond? Belonging is not a destination, but a practice, and it is the people, stories, and moments we share that make it meaningful. Thank you for being part of our table.