Brown RISD Hillel: Spring 2021 Reopening Plan
Dear Students and Families,
As Jews, we’re already quite familiar with the lessons of this long pandemic – that connectivity and purpose are sources of human resilience, even in challenging times. That’s why before the academic year even began, Brown RISD Hillel had a plan to support students in building community and giving shape to transformative experiences of Jewish growth and discovery.
Whether you’re moving into a dorm room on College Hill, or settling in for a semester at home, Brown RISD Hillel is here for you. We hope you’ll check out our exciting #DIYShabbat initiative and host a Friday night meal with your pod. Or that you’ll wrestle with life’s biggest questions (virtually, of course) in one of Hillel’s Jewish learning cohorts. Or that you’ll collaborate with Hillel’s dynamic staff and give shape to a project of your own. We know we’re not quite back to normal, but Hillel is dedicated to ensuring that Jewish life remains fun and meaningful.
In this email you will find answers to some frequently asked questions and information about how Brown RISD Hillel plans to nurture and support Jewish students this coming semester.
Brown RISD Hillel remains committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive set of opportunities for Jewish students, whether on College Hill or at home. A hybrid model of virtual and, when possible, in person programming will focus on:
Quick Links: Healthy Brown RISD COVID Plan
More details are below and can be found on the BRH Reopening FAQ page on our website. If you have questions about BRH’s reopening plan, please contact us at: covidconcerns@brownrisdhillel.org
Brown RISD Hillel has always been more than a building. Hillel is a network of relationships and a platform for possibilities. As we navigate another socially-distanced semester, we hope you’ll discover a point of Jewish connection through Hillel and take advantage of all that Hillel has to offer. If there is any way we can be a resource for you and your families, please do not hesitate to be in touch. We are wishing you continued good health and an exciting start to the Spring 2020 academic year!
B'Shalom,
Rabbi Josh Bolton
Executive Director
Rabbi Michelle Dardashti
Rabbi, Associate Chaplain for the Jewish Community at Brown University
As Jews, we’re already quite familiar with the lessons of this long pandemic – that connectivity and purpose are sources of human resilience, even in challenging times. That’s why before the academic year even began, Brown RISD Hillel had a plan to support students in building community and giving shape to transformative experiences of Jewish growth and discovery.
Whether you’re moving into a dorm room on College Hill, or settling in for a semester at home, Brown RISD Hillel is here for you. We hope you’ll check out our exciting #DIYShabbat initiative and host a Friday night meal with your pod. Or that you’ll wrestle with life’s biggest questions (virtually, of course) in one of Hillel’s Jewish learning cohorts. Or that you’ll collaborate with Hillel’s dynamic staff and give shape to a project of your own. We know we’re not quite back to normal, but Hillel is dedicated to ensuring that Jewish life remains fun and meaningful.
In this email you will find answers to some frequently asked questions and information about how Brown RISD Hillel plans to nurture and support Jewish students this coming semester.
Brown RISD Hillel remains committed to fostering a vibrant and inclusive set of opportunities for Jewish students, whether on College Hill or at home. A hybrid model of virtual and, when possible, in person programming will focus on:
- Strengthening the interconnectedness of Jewish students
- Mental health and wellness
- Shabbat and holiday gatherings and celebrations
- Special experiences for first year students
- Jewish learning cohorts
- Deep and nuanced Israel engagement and education
- Racial awareness and justice
- Environmental activism
- Thought-provoking online speakers
- Transformative spirituality
Quick Links: Healthy Brown RISD COVID Plan
More details are below and can be found on the BRH Reopening FAQ page on our website. If you have questions about BRH’s reopening plan, please contact us at: covidconcerns@brownrisdhillel.org
Brown RISD Hillel has always been more than a building. Hillel is a network of relationships and a platform for possibilities. As we navigate another socially-distanced semester, we hope you’ll discover a point of Jewish connection through Hillel and take advantage of all that Hillel has to offer. If there is any way we can be a resource for you and your families, please do not hesitate to be in touch. We are wishing you continued good health and an exciting start to the Spring 2020 academic year!
B'Shalom,
Rabbi Josh Bolton
Executive Director
Rabbi Michelle Dardashti
Rabbi, Associate Chaplain for the Jewish Community at Brown University
Brown RISD Hillel: Spring 2021 Reopening FAQs
Please check back often, as answers to these questions may change depending on university policy updates and guidelines from the state.
Will Brown RISD Hillel’s Glenn and Darcy Weiner Center be open in this spring semester?
Yes, the Brown RISD Hillel building will be open starting January 27th, after the mandatory “Quiet Period”.
What precautions will be in place to ensure the health and safety of students and staff at Brown RISD Hillel?
Brown RISD Hillel takes the health and safety of students and staff very seriously and we will follow the highest standards as established by Brown University’s PLAN FOR A HEALTHY AND SAFE 2020-21 as well as policies established by the state of Rhode Island. We have published an official Brown RISD Hillel Reopening Policy including extensive guidelines to ensure the safety of students and staff.
These guidelines/plans include but are not limited to:
Can I read Brown RISD Hillel’s official reopening Policy?
Yes. You can find a link to this policy HERE.
Do I have to wear a mask at Brown RISD Hillel?
Yes. As noted above, all individuals must wear a mask indoors as well as outdoors when near others.
Can I visit Brown RISD Hillel if I am not affiliated with the University?
Consistent with University policy, the Brown RISD Hillel building will only be open to students, faculty, and staff of Brown University and RISD.
Will Brown RISD Hillel have in person and virtual programming?
Yes. Brown RISD Hillel will be creating opportunities for students to connect both virtually and, when possible, in person. University guidelines around the permissibility of in person gatherings remain in flux. If and when in person programming is permitted, we are working on plans for Hillel gatherings to take place outside on our terrace and in our outdoor courtyard. Smaller gatherings and religious services may take place in the building following the most current precautions established by the Brown University and the State. We expect these guidelines to change as public health recommendations change.
Will there still be student groups?
Absolutely! Our Jewish student leaders and over 40 student clubs and initiatives look forward to welcoming you to campus with remote and in person activities. Contact our Brown RISD Hillel student EBoard and staff to find out more!
What type of programs are offered through Brown RISD Hillel?
Hillel’s programs are diverse, welcoming and designed to reach students from all different backgrounds. Key areas of focus for Brown RISD Hillel include: Shabbat and Holiday celebrations, wellness, Jewish learning, Israel engagement, Social Justice and Tzedek work, spirituality and prayer, leadership and mentoring. For a fuller sense of all the ways to connect with Brown RISD Hillel, check out our website.
Will there be support for students living off campus?
Yes. Brown RISD Hillel is here to support Jewish students living off campus on College Hill. Students are invited to be in touch with Hillel staff and student leaders about any matter related to kosher food, Shabbat and holiday celebration, or just looking for pastoral support and connection. We are here for you.
How do I connect to Brown RISD Hillel programming?
How do I know what’s right for me? With so much student activity there is something for everyone! To get started on your own Jewish journey, email our Springboard Innovation Fellow, Lex Dorfman, who will connect you with the right Brown RISD Hillel professional or student leader to help you find your people and your place.
Where can I find out about events for first-year students?
An amazing cohort of student leaders are looking forward to welcome new students to our College Hill community. Click here for more information and updates and be sure to follow the Class of 2024 Facebook page!
What options will be available for Shabbat services?
Shabbat at Brown RISD Hillel features Shabbat services through our Reform, Havurah, and Orthodox minyanim. Shabbat services will be offered both virtually, and if we can ensure student safety, in person. All options that are possible and safe are being explored and we’re confident that there will be meaningful opportunities for Shabbat worship and contemplation throughout the semester, within whatever constraints halakha (Jewish law) and public-health concerns demand.
Will Shabbat dinners be offered through Hillel?
Yes. We will be shifting from larger Shabbat meals in the Hillel building to a lot of smaller meals hosted throughout campus and College Hill through our #DIYShabbat initiative. Students can host a meal with their friends or sign up to be hosted. Kosher Shabbat dinners will be available for pickup at Hillel. The first #DIYShabbat will be Friday, 1/15. Students can sign up here.
Can we eat Shabbat dinner in the Hillel building?
We do not yet know if dinners will be able to be eaten in the Hillel building.
Will there be Birthright Israel this summer?
Hillel will be recruiting for Birthright in during the spring semester in anticipation of trips this August 2021. In the case that trips are unable to happen, all deposits will be refundable. Brown RISD Hillel is committed to provided awesome and meaningful opportunities to engage with Israel. For more info about Brown RISD Birthright, check out our website.
This is a lot to handle. Where can I find help navigating the complexities?
We know this coming year will be challenging, and Brown RISD Hillel is here for students in any way we can be helpful. Brown RISD Hillel Rabbis and Staff are one click away for emotional support and pastoral care. Other sources of support on campus:
Brown Office of the Chaplains and Religious Life
Brown Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
RISD’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
Please check back often, as answers to these questions may change depending on university policy updates and guidelines from the state.
Will Brown RISD Hillel’s Glenn and Darcy Weiner Center be open in this spring semester?
Yes, the Brown RISD Hillel building will be open starting January 27th, after the mandatory “Quiet Period”.
What precautions will be in place to ensure the health and safety of students and staff at Brown RISD Hillel?
Brown RISD Hillel takes the health and safety of students and staff very seriously and we will follow the highest standards as established by Brown University’s PLAN FOR A HEALTHY AND SAFE 2020-21 as well as policies established by the state of Rhode Island. We have published an official Brown RISD Hillel Reopening Policy including extensive guidelines to ensure the safety of students and staff.
These guidelines/plans include but are not limited to:
- Masks are required inside the building
- Meeting rooms and restrooms will be reconfigured to maintain social distancing
- Anyone feeling sick will not be allowed to enter the Hillel building
- The Hillel building will be fully sanitized every evening
- Upgraded HVAC system (completed)
- Hand sanitizer stations will be set up throughout the building
- The first-floor office suite will be accessible only to staff
Can I read Brown RISD Hillel’s official reopening Policy?
Yes. You can find a link to this policy HERE.
Do I have to wear a mask at Brown RISD Hillel?
Yes. As noted above, all individuals must wear a mask indoors as well as outdoors when near others.
Can I visit Brown RISD Hillel if I am not affiliated with the University?
Consistent with University policy, the Brown RISD Hillel building will only be open to students, faculty, and staff of Brown University and RISD.
Will Brown RISD Hillel have in person and virtual programming?
Yes. Brown RISD Hillel will be creating opportunities for students to connect both virtually and, when possible, in person. University guidelines around the permissibility of in person gatherings remain in flux. If and when in person programming is permitted, we are working on plans for Hillel gatherings to take place outside on our terrace and in our outdoor courtyard. Smaller gatherings and religious services may take place in the building following the most current precautions established by the Brown University and the State. We expect these guidelines to change as public health recommendations change.
Will there still be student groups?
Absolutely! Our Jewish student leaders and over 40 student clubs and initiatives look forward to welcoming you to campus with remote and in person activities. Contact our Brown RISD Hillel student EBoard and staff to find out more!
What type of programs are offered through Brown RISD Hillel?
Hillel’s programs are diverse, welcoming and designed to reach students from all different backgrounds. Key areas of focus for Brown RISD Hillel include: Shabbat and Holiday celebrations, wellness, Jewish learning, Israel engagement, Social Justice and Tzedek work, spirituality and prayer, leadership and mentoring. For a fuller sense of all the ways to connect with Brown RISD Hillel, check out our website.
Will there be support for students living off campus?
Yes. Brown RISD Hillel is here to support Jewish students living off campus on College Hill. Students are invited to be in touch with Hillel staff and student leaders about any matter related to kosher food, Shabbat and holiday celebration, or just looking for pastoral support and connection. We are here for you.
How do I connect to Brown RISD Hillel programming?
How do I know what’s right for me? With so much student activity there is something for everyone! To get started on your own Jewish journey, email our Springboard Innovation Fellow, Lex Dorfman, who will connect you with the right Brown RISD Hillel professional or student leader to help you find your people and your place.
Where can I find out about events for first-year students?
An amazing cohort of student leaders are looking forward to welcome new students to our College Hill community. Click here for more information and updates and be sure to follow the Class of 2024 Facebook page!
What options will be available for Shabbat services?
Shabbat at Brown RISD Hillel features Shabbat services through our Reform, Havurah, and Orthodox minyanim. Shabbat services will be offered both virtually, and if we can ensure student safety, in person. All options that are possible and safe are being explored and we’re confident that there will be meaningful opportunities for Shabbat worship and contemplation throughout the semester, within whatever constraints halakha (Jewish law) and public-health concerns demand.
Will Shabbat dinners be offered through Hillel?
Yes. We will be shifting from larger Shabbat meals in the Hillel building to a lot of smaller meals hosted throughout campus and College Hill through our #DIYShabbat initiative. Students can host a meal with their friends or sign up to be hosted. Kosher Shabbat dinners will be available for pickup at Hillel. The first #DIYShabbat will be Friday, 1/15. Students can sign up here.
Can we eat Shabbat dinner in the Hillel building?
We do not yet know if dinners will be able to be eaten in the Hillel building.
Will there be Birthright Israel this summer?
Hillel will be recruiting for Birthright in during the spring semester in anticipation of trips this August 2021. In the case that trips are unable to happen, all deposits will be refundable. Brown RISD Hillel is committed to provided awesome and meaningful opportunities to engage with Israel. For more info about Brown RISD Birthright, check out our website.
This is a lot to handle. Where can I find help navigating the complexities?
We know this coming year will be challenging, and Brown RISD Hillel is here for students in any way we can be helpful. Brown RISD Hillel Rabbis and Staff are one click away for emotional support and pastoral care. Other sources of support on campus:
Brown Office of the Chaplains and Religious Life
Brown Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
RISD’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS)
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