What is the Jewish community like at Brown?
Brown RISD Hillel Jewish students come from a wide range of backgrounds; some come from families with one Jewish parent, some come from families with two Jewish parents; some come from homes that have made Judaism a vital part of family life and some come from families that don't practice Judaism at all. And all are welcome at Brown RISD Hillel!

What kinds of activities does Hillel sponsor?
Brown RISD Hillel offers social, cultural, educational, religious and community service events. Events are typically planned by students with support from the Hillel staff. Brown University is a great place for Jewish students.

What’s it like to celebrate Jewish holidays on campus?
Hillel gathers for all major Jewish holidays. High Holy Day services are held on campus each year. We have our own special traditions for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Simkhat Torah, Hanukkah, Tu B’Shvat, Purim, Passover and more. Holiday observances are marked by student leadership and participation and always include good food (even if it’s pre-fast or post-fast) and good company.

Is there a Hillel House at Brown RISD Hillel?
Yes! The Glenn and Darcy Weiner Center is a 25,000 square foot building owned by Hillel and used for a wide variety of Brown University functions.

Is there a Jewish Studies program at Brown?
Yes! Check out the website for the Program in Judaic Studies.  In addition to the courses offered through Brown, Hillel offers many opportunities for hevruta (one-on-one) and group learning. Our staff includes Orthodox, Conservative and Reconstructionist rabbis, all of whom engage in learning with students.
 
Is there Kosher food on campus?
Yes!  Kosher meals are available as an option through Brown’s Dining Services. They are prepared by a Glatt Kosher caterer under the supervision of the Rabbinical Council of New England. Costs and additional information can be found on the Dining Services website. And Hillel provides kosher meals for Friday dinners, Saturday lunches and dinners, and on some Jewish holidays.
 
In addition to the kosher meal plan, a kitchen in Wayland House (Wriston Quad) has been kashered for use by kosher-keeping students, to be piloted during Passover 2019 (5779) and the 2019-2020 school year. Residential Life and Hillel staff look forward to feedback throughout that time. The first order of business is to identify students who wish to be able to use and maintain this kosher kitchen. To ensure that the kitchen is kept kosher, it will remain locked at all times and accessible by key only to those who are registered users of it.  Please fill out this form if you are interested in having access.
 
If you’re interested in meeting for a kosher meal at a restaurant within walking distance from campus, you might want to check out By Chloe. And for other restaurant choices in Providence, take a look at Garden Grille, The Grange, Wildflour and Veggie Fun.
 
Does Brown make accommodations for students who don’t work, carry or use electricity on Shabbat?
Yes! There is an eruv that includes the Brown University campus. When student move-in day falls on Shabbat, Brown will make arrangements for an early move-in date. Non-electronic keys for dorm rooms are available upon request. And Brown faculty will make arrangements for students who miss work due to holiday observances.
 
Are there daily minyanim in close proximity to Brown?
Yes! Shabbat and holiday services are held regularly at Brown RISD Hillel. If you're interested in attending a weekday minyan at Hillel, contact Rabbi Alex.

Here are local daily minyanim and their times:

Reform
Temple Beth El, 70 Orchard Ave, Providence
5:45pm: Ma'ariv

Orthodox
Congregation Beth Sholom, 275 Camp Street, Providence
6:35am: Shacharit Monday and Thursday
6:45am: Shacharit Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday

Congregation Mishkon Tfiloh, 203 Summit Ave, Providence
6:20am: Shacharit Monday and Thursday
6:30am: Shacharit Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday
4:10pm: Mincha / Maariv 

Providence Community Kollel, 450 Elmgrove, Providence
9:30pm: Maariv Sunday

Conservative
Temple Emanu-El, 99 Taft Ave, Providence
7:00am: Shacharit weekdays
8:00am: Shacharit Sunday
5:45pm: Maariv Sunday - Thursday

Have a question which isn't answered here? Contact the staff or any of the student leaders and we will be glad to answer it! We're all more than happy to help you think about whether Brown or RISD may be the right school for you.