Dear friends,

As we prepare for Shabbat, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the importance of community and support, especially in times of adversity. Currently one of the most critical programs supported by the Jewish Federation of Ottawa is Hillel Ottawa. Hillel's dedication to fostering Jewish identity, connection, and empowerment of Jewish students on campus is truly commendable.

Led by Director Jamie Sweigman and Student Life & Advocacy Coordinator Oren Baray, (shown in photo from left to right) and a group of dedicated student leaders who make up Hillel’s Student Exec team, Hillel’s mission is to empower and uplift Jewish university and college students. Despite this year’s challenging atmosphere rife with antisemitism, their efforts have yielded remarkable results.

Through powerful programming, they have created 81 unique initiatives since August 2023, each representing a positive way that students can connect to their Jewish identity and culture. With an impressive total of 1337 student participations, these programs have served as catalysts for friendship-building, learning, and personal growth among the student body.

Moreover, Hillel Ottawa provides a home away from home for many Jewish students. Their monthly Shabbat meals offer not just nourishment but also a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

These gatherings foster a warm and welcoming environment where students can find solace and strength. Tonight, Hillel is hosting their end-of-the-school-year Shabbat dinner where they expect upwards of 100 guests.

Engagement: Students participate in a Israel-learning program; Meeting with the Israeli Ambassador: from left Oren Baray, Orr Gubbay, Ambassador Iddo Moed, Miriam Heitin, and Jamie Sweigman.

Significantly, Hillel Ottawa has taken a proactive stance against the rise of antisemitism on university campuses. Hillel’s student leaders have been at the forefront of advocating for Jewish students’ right to campus environments free of antisemitism, where Jewish students can feel safe and included in campus life. We are proud of their efforts and commitment to standing up for their rights and those of their fellow students.  

This past fall, together with partners, they convened a nationwide gathering of students and leaders, which sparked crucial conversations and collaboration aimed at combatting hate and fostering understanding. Additionally, Hillel Ottawa has prioritized building Jewish pride and resilience by mentoring the next generation of Jewish leaders through initiatives like AllyU, a student-faculty mentorship program. 

In their commitment to supporting individual students, Hillel Ottawa staff have gone above and beyond, engaging in 85 one-on-one coffee dates over the fall and winter semesters. These personal connections serve as lifelines for students, providing them with guidance, encouragement, and a listening ear during both challenging and positive moments.

Overall, Hillel Ottawa's dedication to empowering and supporting Jewish students on campus is nothing short of inspiring. Through their unwavering commitment to community, education, and advocacy, they are a beacon of hope and strength for our community. Find out more about Hillel's accomplishments here and donate to support them here.

Shabbat Shalom,



Sarah Beutel

Interim CEO

P.S. Learn more about the Online Harms Bill in this special CIJA briefing, April 17 at 1 PM ET via Zoom, where we will hear from experts Dr. Michael Geist and Dr. Emily Laidlaw on how they view the bill, its intentions, and the pros and cons of how it will help fight online hate. 

Register here