Villanova Hillel, while an up and coming
club on campus, has had an extensive history. During the 1980s, Hillel was a
very prominent group on campus, but for reasons unknown, it died out sometime
during the 1990s. But, in 2004, former Villanova Hillel student Valerie Weisberg
saw a Jewish presence on campus and felt there was a need for a Hillel group
again. With the help of Kathy Overturf of Villanova Campus Ministry, Valerie started the newest incarnation
of Villanova Hillel, and three core members, Valerie, Josh Forstater, and Seth
Strohl began work to make Hillel recognizable on campus.
Their first major breakthrough was in April 2004, when they held
a model Seder on campus, the first one in many years. It was also significant
because many important members of the Villanova community attended, establishing
the group in the Villanova community. Since that time, Villanova Hillel
continues to grow with increased membership and a number of events on campus. In
the past, we have had a number of speakers on campus, such as Judy Meisel, a
Holocaust survivor, and participated in events, such as World Religions Day. We
also have had several events every year surrounding the Jewish holidays, such as
High Holy Days and Chanukah get-togethers. We have also established
relationships with Hillel of Greater Philadelphia, Chabad on Campus, and the
Villanova Interfaith Coalition, which has led to more events in which members
can meet other students on Villanova's campus and other Jewish students in the
Philadelphia area.
In the future, Villanova Hillel plans on continuing its growth
by conducting established events every year, and expanding its scope with new
events and speakers.
