Hillel of Staten Island
A new model for Jewish life for college students on Staten Island
Check out our video about Hillel of Staten Island!
Hillel of Staten Island Launches a New Model for Jewish Campus Life
Our JCC has entered into a management agreement with Hillel, creating an innovative, first-of-its-kind model designed to serve students at the College of Staten Island (CSI), Wagner College, and other college-aged young adults throughout Staten Island.
Developed in partnership with UJA-Federation of New York, Hillel International, the College of Staten Island, and Wagner College, this new initiative strengthens opportunities for Jewish students to connect, grow, and build lasting relationships within the community.
A New Vision for Young Adults
Hillel of Staten Island creates a seamless connection for young adults as they transition from high school to college and into their professional lives. By combining the resources of the JCC with the reach and expertise of Hillel, students will have access to a broader network of support, leadership opportunities, and meaningful Jewish experiences.
"Our goal is to create a future community for all Jewish young adults to engage, thrive, and grow," said JCC CEO Orit Lender. "Hillel of Staten Island is a unique model that will create a seamless connection for those attending college, participating in alternative educational pathways, and individuals who are already on their career paths."
Areas of Focus
Hillel of Staten Island will provide programming and support in several key areas, including:
Jewish education and identity
Leadership development
Career and professional growth
Social and community engagement
Advocacy and activism
Mental health and well-being
Cultural and religious programming
Leadership
Rachel Vaynshteyn, a former CSI Hillel leader and alumna, serves as Director of Hillel of Staten Island. In this role, she works closely with students across both campuses and throughout the community to create meaningful opportunities for engagement and growth.
Strengthening Community Connections
The initiative is designed to create stronger bonds among students, educational institutions, and the broader Staten Island community while fostering a greater sense of belonging among Jewish young adults.
The program also seeks to address the growing challenges of antisemitism by creating safe, supportive spaces where students can build confidence, strengthen their identities, and develop into the next generation of community leaders.
A Collaborative Partnership
This initiative is made possible through the support of:
Bernikow JCC Staten Island
UJA-Federation of New York
Hillel International
The College of Staten Island
Wagner College
"At Hillel, I built a Jewish community that will last me a lifetime.”
– Andromeda, Hillel student