The people are what make UMBC Hillel special.
Our students, staff and board members work in partnership to foster opportunities for folks to openly explore Jewish tradition and discern it’s impact on their life.
Find us on Facebook and Instagram (@umbchillel), share a cup of coffee or lunch with our staff or student interns (on us of course!), and attend a program or two.
Our offices are located in the newest and shiniest building on campus, the Center for Wellbeing, which is located across the street from Erickson Field.
RABBI JEREMY FIERSTIEN, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
My name is Jeremy Fierstien and as the Rabbi and Executive Director of UMBC Hillel I do more than drink coffee, though that is a favorite past time of mine. Being a Jersey boy with a background grounded in classical Jewish text, combined with a Rabbinic ordination framed in a modern context, I am obsessed with finding ways to keep Jewish tradition relevant and meaningful to young adults. When I am not tinkering with ritual or adding a little theological chaos to a students life you can find me exploring the woods and waterways of Maryland with my wife and two children.
Email: rabbijeremy@umbc.edu
ALIZA SILVERMAN, Director of Jewish Student Life
Hi everyone! I’m Aliza Silverman, Engagement Associate here at UMBC Hillel. Students also call me “the hired Jewish mother,” as I’m always around to lend a listening ear and make sure everyone is fed. Although from New Jersey, Maryland has become my home—I came down here for school and have been here ever since! During my time at school, Hillel was my home away from home, and I want ya’ll to feel that way about UMBC Hillel. I love creating pluralistic, diverse Jewish spaces where all backgrounds and identities are celebrated. When I’m not working on events and initiatives for our students, I enjoy gluten free baking, Israeli Folk Dance, and exploring Baltimore City—feel free to ask for recommendations!
Email: asilverman@umbc.edu
Danielle Baron, Israel Engagement Coordinator
My name is Danielle Baron, and I was born and raised in Wayne, NJ. I have always had a passion for working with students, and I have a B.S. in Integrated Elementary and Special Education from the University of Hartford in Connecticut. In addition to my passion for working with elementary aged students, I also enjoy traveling to new places, learning about new topics, meeting new people, participating in sports, and immersing myself into new cultures. Over the past few years, I have been fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to travel to various different states, provinces, and countries including Israel. Now that I have traveled out to Baltimore, Maryland, I am excited to join the UMBC Hillel community as the Israel Engagement Associate. I would be delighted to meet any UMBC students and alumni, so make sure to reach out to me to catch up over Zoom, Starbucks, or even lunch on Hillel.
Email: dhb@umbc.edu