Breaking ground, building community

Maya Taylor, a senior at the University of Delaware, joined UD's chapter of Hillel, a campus organization for Jewish students, during her first year on campus as a way to meet like-minded students and attend weekly Shabbat dinners. Immediately, Hillel's Kristol Center for Jewish Life felt like a home away from home for her, where she could meet friends, celebrate holidays, share meals and build community.

While the Krisol Center has served as that home for students since 1993, the Jewish population at UD has grown significantly since then. There are about 2,250 Jewish students on campus - about 13% of the undergraduate population.

On Sunday, Oct. 26, UD and government officials, supporters, students, parents and members of the community broke ground on an expanded center that will meet the social, religious and cultural needs of the burgeoning Jewish student population on UD's campus.

"Hillel has an incredible effect on the UD community," Taylor said. "As we look ahead to the new building, I only see the Jewish community at UD growing with the new innovative study spaces, cozy lounges and spaces designed for connection, learning and celebration. Students will find their home at Hillel just like I did."