Mission
Hillel for Utah seeks to develop the relationships, experiences and communities that inspires students to understand themselves, and creates a connection with their Jewish life. We strive to achieve this through immersive Jewish education, leadership experiences, outdoor programming, community service, and Jewish holiday celebrations, among many other programs! We are committed to accepting and celebrating diversity in our students.
​
At Hillel, all kinds of students are invited and encouraged to bring their whole selves. Whether students keep kosher or have never attended synagogue; whether they want to participate in Shabbat or in a study group; whether they identify as Queer, Black, Ashkenazi, Sephardi, or all of the above. Hillel enables Jewish college students to freely explore what being Jewish in today’s world means to them.
​
We serve from all of the state's colleges and universities including the University of Utah, Utah Valley University, Weber State University, Salt Lake Community College, Westminster College, Utah State University and Brigham Young University.
Our Story
Hillel for Utah began in the fall of 2010 with seven students who expressed interest in a Jewish student organization at Westminster College during a Faith Fair. These seven students began a student club “Chai Life.” In February 2011, Hillel International recognized the club as a “small and mighty” organization as Hillel for Utah located at the college.. Expansion of the organization was propelled with the establishment of a full time executive director in July, 2015. Hillel for Utah moved to be headquartered at the JCC in 2017 when it became an independent 501(c)3 organization.
​
In July 2023 Hillel for Utah made the transition from its own 501(c)3, to a program of the United Jewish Federation of Utah. This transition marks no significant change to the student facing aspects of the organization. Hillel for Utah is currently is under the supervision of its Managing Director, in consultation with the United Jewish Federation of Utah who adminsiters the program.
Frequently Asked Questions
.png){kind=small}
Do I need to be religious?
No, ALL college students are welcome to participate, regardless of religious background! We are pluralistic and egalitarian.
Does Hillel cost anything?
With the exception of overnight events ,
Hillel participation is free to our students!
(*all events with cost have scholarships available)
Are there leadership opportunities?
Yes! We elect a new student board each academic year. We encourage anyone who is interested to apply, gain some leadership skills, and build that resume! (contact us for details)
What kind of organization is Hillel for Utah?
We are a program of the United Jewish Federation of Utah, which is a non profit 501(c)3 organization! We are sustained entirely through donations.
Where do events take place?
We conduct our events at a variety of locations around SLC! Our regular programs mostly take place on campus at the U of U.
What kind of events do you offer?
We offer Shabbat experiences, holiday celebrations, Jewish learning, community service programs, Israel education, and more! Learn more
How can I become involved?
You can contact us at director@hillelutah.org
Follow us on instagram @hillelutah
Sign up for our email list HERE
Join our Discord Server (email staff for link)
Is there a Jewish community in SLC?
There is a strong and vibrant Jewish community in Utah, that offers resources and support our Hillel students! Learn more