FEBRUARY 15 • 2024 | 53
ter became more than just
a group of Jews; it became
an understanding of safety
and belonging. As Jews, we
understand that, no matter
what, our Jewish identities are
intrinsic to one another.
The Hillel at NMU chapter
has been essential to my life
through our Shabbat dinners,
activities and storytelling.
During our Shabbat dinners,
we learned from all members
about their Jewish faith and
what being Jewish means to
them. “Thank you for this,”
I recall a member saying.
“I am glad there is a Jewish
community growing,” another
member voiced.
It became clear this orga-
nization is more than just a
student organization; it is a
space to learn about the beau-
tiful traditions of the Jewish
culture. Living a Jewish life
means different things to
different individuals, and the
Hillel at NMU chapter fosters
these identities, understand-
ing that we all bring great
perspectives that align and
strengthen our organization.
One of the biggest
challenges we face as students
in a rural community is
the need for more diversity
and finding a space that fits
best. As Jewish students, we
lack belonging to a Jewish
community. With Hillel, we’ve
been broadening perspectives
on non-Jews being a part of
our events, providing a sense
of understanding. As we
continue growing our Hillel
community, we establish a
sense of belonging for all.
As I complete my
academics next fall, I will
always reflect on Hillel at
NMU and the community we
started together. We express
our gratitude through the
support of the Hillel Campus
Alliance of Michigan. Thank
you for the endless support
from afar, guiding the other
leaders of Hillel at NMU
and me. We extend our
appreciation to all donors
who make the Hillel Campus
Alliance of Michigan possible,
providing safe spaces for Jews
of all identities and offering
educational leadership and
skills that will further our
success.@
From left: senior Sarah Nennig-Kniaz, Madison Wis.; first-year
grad student Mitchell Fugate, Kenosha, Wis.; freshman Riley
Buckmaster, Deerfield, Mich.; sophomores Zoe Charness, West
Bloomfield, Ashlee Cassell, Kingsley, Mich., and Anna Melnikoff,
Naperville, Ill.; and senior Micah Benjamin, Overland Park, Kansas.
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