What is Hillel?
Hillel is the Foundation for Jewish Life, which supports Jewish community and engagement on hundreds of college campuses around the world.
How many Jewish students are enrolled at UMBC? What is Jewish life like here at UMBC?
Jewish life is thriving at UMBC and UMBC Hillel serves as a resource that enriches the campus community and connects our students to the greater Baltimore Jewish community. We estimate that there are approximately 1,000 students who identify as Jewish that attend classes at UMBC. UMBC Hillel enages with Jewish students on campus each year through a myriad of program offerings including weekly Shabbat and holiday celebrations, Jewish Learning Fellowships, and much more.
Follow us on Instagram (@umbchillel) for more info!
How connected is UMBC Hillel to the rest of the UMBC community?
Through progressive programming, co-sponsorship of events, and the active involvement of students in a variety of other clubs and organizations on campus, UMBC Hillel has grown within the university. The UMBC administration has always been very supportive of Hillel and its role on campus and has worked hard to provide a welcoming atmosphere for Jewish students, faculty, staff, and friends.
Where is UMBC Hillel located on campus?
Everywhere! UMBC Hillel works to engage students in meaningful one-on-one conversations, educational programming, and a wide variety of Jewish cultural experiences throughout campus. We frequently hold programs in the Center for Well-Being rooms 103 (the Gathering Space) and 101.
If you are looking to find the UMBC Hillel professionals, we may be found in one of the CWB spaces, but we recommend reaching out to us directly.
Is there a Kosher meal plan offered at UMBC?
Yes! Fresh kosher sandwiches and wraps are available in The Commons and True Grit’s dining hall serves hot kosher meals for lunch and dinner in the Kosher Corner under Star-K supervision. Kosher Korner is open from dinner Sunday through lunch Friday. We have coordinated Kosher for Passover meals with the university and plan to again this year.
For more information about kosher options at UMBC please visit the dining services website here: Kosher Dining at UMBC
What kind of Shabbat programming do you provide?
UMBC Hillel offers a Shabbat program every Friday night during the semester. All program information can be found on our Facebook page as well as through the myUMBC portal.
Please visit the UMBC Hillel Shabbat Page for more updated information.
Is there a daily Minyan (prayer group)?
There has not been a daily minyan on campus in recent years. However, we are happy to help coordinate one if there is a demand. Please reach out to asilverman@umbc.edu.
Are there Judaic studies classes at UMBC?
There sure are! You can even minor in Judaic Studies. Click here for details.