Hillel at Kent State University recently received a prestigious Indispensable University Partner award from Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life.
The honor was one of five total awarded to Hillels around the world during the Vision and Values presentation on July 30. It was a part of Hillel’s annual weeklong professional development conference, called Hillel Institute, which took place at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo.
Being an Indispensable University Partner is one of the four elements of success for the more than 550 campus Hillels, as stated in the organization’s strategic plan. The award is given to a Hillel that demonstrates full immersion into the life of the university and is regarded by the campus community and administration as an indispensable partner that enhances student life.
“We are really proud of this meaningful award,” says Jennifer Chestnut, who is entering her 15th year as executive director for Hillel at Kent State. “This is really a recognition for all to share, as it shows the genuine partnerships that we have at both campuses.”
Hillel at Kent State is the home-away-from-home for the 1,500 Jewish students at Kent State and the University of Akron. The staff received a plaque and a banner that states: “For exemplifying the spirit of genuine partnership by embracing campus life at both Kent State University and The University of Akron.”
“It is my honor to recognize the Hillel at Kent State for their commitment to being a vital campus partner and leader in the areas of diversity, tolerance and multiculturalism,” says Scott Brown, Hillel’s vice president of talent, as he presented the award. “The Hillel at Kent State continues to promote an inclusive environment on campus that is a model for others to follow.”
Kent State administrators assisted with the application process. Highlights included: Hillel’s long tradition of holding May 4 commemoration events, that the Cohn Jewish Student Center was the first Hillel building to be erected on state land, and Hillel’s many co-sponsorship events on campus, such as the “Just 4 Day” service initiative.
“I have worked closely with the Kent State Hillel for the last 25 years,” says Greg Jarvie, Kent State’s vice president for enrollment management. “Their commitment to inclusiveness in regards to scholarship, leadership, cultural and religious awareness has been a major influence in the entire university community.”
For more information about Hillel at Kent State, please contact Hillel at Kent State's Development Associate Jacob Rosen atjrosen6@kent.edu or 330-678-0397 x. 111.
Hillel at Kent State is an independent 501(c) 3 Jewish student organization, a beneficiary of the Ohio Valley Hillel Consortium and not a department of or funded by Kent State University.