Jewish Studies at HWS
Jewish life at HWS carries over into the classroom, too. By studying under the Holocaust Studies program or through courses on Jewish topics, you can gain better insight into Judaism.
Jewish Life
experience, learn and celebrate judaism
Jewish life thrives at HWS. From weekly Shabbat dinners to special programming during Holocaust Awareness week, you can engage your spiritual side. The Abbe Center for Jewish Life serves as the hub for Jewish life for HWS, just across the street from Temple Beth-El. Regardless of your beliefs and background, you are always welcome to take part in Jewish life at HWS.
Meet Us
By The Lake
The Abbe Center for Jewish Life
Located across the street from Temple Beth-El with beautiful views of Seneca Lake, the Abbe Center for Jewish Life serves as the hub of Jewish life at HWS. The house features a large dining room where Shabbat dinners and other meals are served, an open foyer and two kitchens – including one kosher style – all of which provide an open, welcoming atmosphere to celebrate Jewish holidays and events with friends and peers alike. Students are also able to live at the house as it features nine rooms and study spaces, perfect for students looking to fully embrace Jewish life at HWS.
As an inclusive, welcoming community, students wanting to live at the Abbe Center do not need to be Jewish but should respect Jewish values.
Hillel is at the core of Jewish life at HWS. From hosting bagel brunches to organizing film screenings from Jewish directors, the student run organization is the lifeline of Jewish life at HWS. Students with Hillel also work to promote programs and get feedback from their peers to improve the Jewish life experience on campus.
Everyone is welcome to events hosted by Hillel and Hillel student board meetings. Students looking to join the board need to be elected by current board members. Except for the board president, board members do not need to be Jewish, but must respect Jewish values.