Renaissance Society Fundraiser!

Sunday, September 25, was the official kick off for Central Florida Hillel’s Renaissance Society. Members of the Renaissance Society are partners in building a strong, positive Jewish presence on college campuses around Central Florida and key investors in a vibrant Jewish future. The event was both a celebration of the charter members and an promotion for future ones. Interim Executive Director of Central Florida Hillel, Sam Kauffman, hoped to introduce a transition in philosophy from a one-time donation to a commitment of investment to the organization in efforts to create a more sustainable organization. Bob and Judy Yarmuth hosted guests to a thrilling performance of Cirque du Soleil at the UCF Arena followed by cocktails and hors d’oeurves in a luxury suite. Guests were treated to Kosher buffet set around tables featuring centerpieces that depicted a mix of current students and alumni, which successfully illuminated Central Florida Hillel’s commitment to enriching the lives of Jewish undergraduate and graduate students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. The event was unanimously a relaxing and elegant evening that celebrated Jewish life on campus. Central Florida Hillel would especially like to thank Bob and Judy Yarmuth for their dedication and congratulate their achievement. Those who are still considering joining the Renaissance Society or for more information about Jewish Campus Life are encouraged to contact Sam Kauffman at 407-382-2658.

Introducing Lauren and Tuli!

         For the Jewish people, Rosh Hashanah has always marked new beginnings. Fall 2011 introduces many exciting changes for Central Florida Hillel. As Sam Kauffman establishes his new position as Interim Executive Director, he brings his vision into focus with two impressive new hires.

            As the new Student Life Coordinator, Lauren Robbins joins Central Florida Hillel with aims of engagement and leadership amongst Jewish students. A recent graduate of the University of Michigan, Lauren received her bachelor’s degree in Film and Television production. She has proved an accomplished production assistant with a resume spanning a myriad of television shows including the Style Channel’s “How Do I Look?”, the History Channel’s “American Restoration”, and HGTV’s “Dear Genevieve”.

            Tuli Shapira joins the ranks as Central Florida Hillel’s Israel Fellow through a program with the Jewish Agency for Israel.  This program is intended to engage uninvolved Jewish students and connect them with Jewish life through meaningful relationships with Israel. Tuli received her B.A. in political science and Middle East studies from Israel’s Ben-Gurion University. She has worked extensively in Israel at PERACH, an organization that pairs children from underprivileged backgrounds with university students. Tuli has also served in the army as an educational instructor in an armored corps regiment of three hundred soldiers.

            Central Florida Hillel could not be more thrilled to welcome Lauren and Tuli into its thriving community. The unstoppable combination of education, talent, and experience is sure to engineer a progressive and inspired year as sweet as apples and honey.

            For more information on Central Florida Hillel and inspiring every Jewish Student to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, or to invest in the Jewish future, contact Sam Kauffman 407.382.2658 or Sam@GoHillel.org

Annual Meeting

On Thursday, August 24, Central Florida Hillel hosted its Annual Meeting in Maitland to vote on the 2011-2012 board of directors and officers. Central Florida Hillel wishes to express its gratitude to the current board for their inexhaustible support over the past year. The new inductees serve as an exciting addition to the many innovative changes implemented by Central Florida Hillel this fall. Hank Katzen – President, Ed Bromberg – Vice-President, Jack Oppenheimer – Treasurer, Rikki Hanin – Secretary, and Nina Oppenheim – Immediate Past-President.