WHY I BECAME A FOUNDERS’ FELLOW:

“I applied to the Founders’ Fellowship because I was excited about the opportunity to create new Jewish programming and join with other like-minded Jewish college students eager to make change on their own campuses. When I applied, I realized I was in a constant struggle with Shabbat on campus. I became interested in creating Shabbat experiences for myself and other students that did not focus solely on prayer. The kickoff weekend helped me solidify my idea for the Fellowship because I had the opportunity to learn with other students and discuss what was and wasn't working on their campuses. The Fellowship has introduced me to a group of students who are grappling with similar issues and has provided me with a network of friends I can turn to for support in all aspects of my life.”

The Jewish community is changing and requires greater innovation than ever before. Just as our HUC-JIR founders were unwilling to sit idly by and accept the status quo, so too are we looking to act towards renewal. The Founders’ Fellowship calls upon you, as leaders in your campus communities, to share your visions for change.

During this one-year Fellowship, you will:

WORKSHOP your initiatives to strengthen progressive Jewish life in your campus community.

ACQUIRE critical leadership skills to catalyze your vision and implement change.

NETWORK with dynamic, animated, and creative college students invested in progressive Jewish values.