Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hillel’s Mission?
Hillel seeks to enrich the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. Hillel is committed to:
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Creating a pluralistic, welcoming and inclusive environment
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Fostering student growth and the balance in being distinctively Jewish and universally human;
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Advancing social justice, Jewish learning, and spirituality;
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Embracing Israel and global Jewish peoplehood;
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Delivering excellence, innovation, accountability, and results.
How is Hillel Funded?
Hillel is not a membership based organization. More than 80% of our annual budget comes from parents, grandparents, friends and alumni. We’re very grateful for the support of Jewish Federations throughout Michigan, especially the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit for their ongoing investment in Jewish life on campus.
How Many Jewish Students Are On HCAM Campuses?
We estimate that HCAM serves approximately 2,000 Jewish students throughout the state. Our program is constantly growing and has seen significant growth over the past 5 years. If you know of a student attending one of our campuses, please send their information our way!
How Active is Jewish Life on HCAM Campuses?
Jewish life is very active on our HCAM campuses! All programming is student led and driven and all events and initiatives are led by each Hillel's student board. Programming includes social, cultural, religious and educational activities. Additionally, all HCAM campuses participate in community service programs and travel across the world on Birthright Israel trips, alternative breaks and student leadership conferences.
Do HCAM Campuses Experience A Lot of Anti-Semitism?
Since October 7, 2023, campuses across the country—including our 10 HCAM campuses—have experienced heightened tensions surrounding Israel, antisemitism, and Jewish identity. While this has created new challenges for many Jewish students, HCAM is well-equipped to help students navigate these moments and thrive on campus.
Our professional staff works closely with students every day, providing guidance, advocacy, and individualized support. We also offer free, confidential counseling with our full-time licensed social worker, ensuring students have access to mental health resources whenever they need them. Whether a student is looking for a safe place to process current events, needs help navigating a difficult classroom or campus situation, or simply wants a welcoming Jewish community, our team is here to help.
HCAM maintains strong, collaborative relationships with university leadership and key campus partners. We regularly communicate with university administration to advocate for our students and to ensure that concerns are addressed thoughtfully and appropriately. We go to great lengths to support Jewish students, amplify their voices, and connect them with the resources they need to feel safe, supported, and empowered.
Despite the challenges, our 10 HCAM campuses remain a place where Jewish students can build meaningful friendships, celebrate their Jewish identity openly, and become active leaders in campus life. Through a vibrant Jewish community, strong partnerships, and a dedicated team of professionals, HCAM is committed to ensuring every Jewish student has the support they need to have a successful and rewarding college experience.
Where is HCAM Located?
Our main offices are located in the Lester and Jewell Morris Hillel Jewish Student Center at 360 Charles Street in East Lansing, Michigan. We connect with students via Zoom, phone and email and travel to HCAM campuses for programs, meetings and initiatives. All HCAM programs take place on each individual school's campus and locations are determined by student leaders.
Is Hillel a Univeristy Office?
No. While Hillel enjoys a very close working relationship with university offices, colleges and departments we are not a university office. In fact, we were recently recognized with the "Indispensable Campus Partner Award" from International Hillel for our various initiatives.