Fifteen years ago, the Cohn Jewish Student Center opened its doors, becoming a vital hub for Jewish students at Kent State University. Since its opening, Kent Hillel has worked to foster a sense of belonging, cultural pride and a supportive community for Jewish students and others across the campus.
To celebrate this anniversary, members of Kent Hillel reflected on the impact the Cohn Center has had over the years. Since its opening, the center has become an essential part of campus life for many students.
Rachel Felber, the executive director of Kent Hillel, told Kent State Today about the center’s evolution over the past decade and a half.
“Having this building has completely enhanced what was already existing at Kent State,” Felber said. “It provides a space where students can come, feel welcome, do homework, hang out or even hold services. This center is so much more than just a building – it’s a home for so many of our students.”
In addition to providing a safe space for students, Kent Hillel is now offering a wide variety of programs. Felber highlighted the center's importance as a place for students to engage in meaningful cultural and religious activities.
“We estimate that there are around 1,000 to 1,200 Jewish students on campus, but we don’t just engage with Jewish students,” Felber said. “We’re open to all students, providing holiday celebrations, counseling services and opportunities for interfaith dialogue.”
One of the many students deeply impacted by the Cohn Center is Jacob Rathkopf, a junior human development and family studies major.
“When I was touring colleges, having an active Hillel was really important to me,” he said. “Kent’s Hillel immediately felt like home. They reached out to me even before I committed, and I’ve never stopped coming since.”
Since becoming active in 2022, Rathkopf has been given opportunities to take on significant roles, from planning Shabbat services to organizing campus-wide events. Being a part of the planning process has been transformative for Rathkopf.
"One of my proudest moments was our end-of-the-year Shabbat, where we had over 100 people, including parents," he said. "It’s rewarding to see how many people Hillel impacts.”
Hannah Appel, a senior early childhood education major, also reflected on how the center has shaped her college experience.
“Being involved with Hillel has really helped me find my community here,” Appel said. “I’ve loved working on our social media presence and helping to get the word out about all the incredible programs we offer.”
The Cohn Center has become a hub for cultural engagement, offering a variety of activities that appeal to both Jewish and non-Jewish students alike. From weekly Shabbat dinners to educational programs like the Jewish Learning Fellowship, Kent Hillel strives to engage students with different interests and backgrounds.
Hannah Sietz, a sophomore majoring in peace and conflict studies and a member of the Honors College, shared how Hillel helped her connect with her Jewish identity.
“I’ve always been proud to be Jewish, but Hillel and the Cohn Center have given me the opportunity to take on leadership roles and make meaningful connections with people,” she said. "It's not just about religious activities, it's a space where I feel supported in all aspects of my life."
This year, Kent Hillel has also partnered with other campus organizations such as the Undergraduate Student Government to host collaborative events that engage the wider Kent State community.
“The most rewarding part of being involved with Hillel is seeing students from different backgrounds come together and form lasting bonds,” Sietz said. “Hillel truly creates a space where everyone feels like they belong.”
As Kent Hillel continues to grow, its commitment to supporting students and fostering interfaith dialogue remains at the core of its mission. The Cohn Center continues to create a home away from home for students, whether they are celebrating holidays, learning, or simply seeking a place to relax.
In celebrating 15 years of the Cohn Center, Kent State acknowledges the vital role it plays in enhancing the student experience and promoting cultural inclusion on campus.
Learn more about Kent Hillel and the Cohn Jewish Student Center.