Federation congratulates Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach on opening its newly expanded and renovated FAU building, a milestone in a partnership supporting Jewish student life, campus security and belonging.
On Oct. 27, more than 300 students, alumni, university leaders, and community supporters gathered to celebrate the opening of the expanded and renovated Newman Bernstein Hillel at Florida Atlantic University’s campus. This welcoming space is designed to bring Jewish students together and strengthen campus community.
The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County is proud to support Hillel and celebrate this milestone, more than a decade in the making.
A vibrant Jewish campus community depends on students being able to gather, learn and express their identity openly, and to feel safe doing so. Federation works with FAU Hillel to strengthen Jewish student life, connect students with trusted resources and support campus security. Federation has also helped fund security upgrades on campus.
“Students thrive when they know they have a community behind them, people who show up for them and resources they can turn to,” said Jessica Rykus, Associate Director of Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach. “Federation’s partnership allows us to strengthen that community by investing in our staff, empowering student leaders and creating spaces where Jewish students feel welcomed, supported and safe. At Hillel, we want every student to feel that they belong, can show up as their authentic selves and have the confidence to embrace and express their Jewish identity proudly.”
Brandey Edelson, Federation’s vice president of public affairs and Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach’s immediate past board chair, is a steadfast supporter of the program. The new space includes the Edelson Family Judaica Library, honoring her family’s commitment to Jewish learning and a vibrant Jewish community at FAU.
“As an alumna of FAU, it means so much to see this transformation of Hillel become a reality,” Edelson said. “Hillel has always been a special place where Jewish students can connect, learn, and find a sense of belonging. This beautifully renovated space builds on that foundation. At a time when Jewish students face increasing challenges, investing in spaces where they can be proudly and openly Jewish is more important than ever.”
At the ceremony, FAU President Hasner shared that FAU, in partnership with Federation, plans to provide university-wide education and training to empower students, faculty, and staff with practical tools to recognize and respond to antisemitism in everyday campus life.
The new Hillel building and this broader partnership reflect a shared commitment to a campus where Jewish students can participate fully in university life, knowing their safety and belonging matter.
