2024 Reflections

Dear OSU Hillel Community,

Last summer, when we started our journey together as the new OSU Hillel CEO and Board Chair, we never imagined what this year would bring. Less than two months in to our roles, the Jewish people were struck by the shock, horror and devastation of the October 7 attacks.

Like Jews everywhere, we grieved, mourned and stood together, united with our entire Columbus Jewish community. However, before we could even process our emotions, another blow hit – the unprecedented surge of antisemitism and anti-Zionism on college campuses nationwide.

As one of the largest universities in the U.S., our campus was no exception to the hate, vitriol and disruption of student life that ensued post-October 7. But we rallied... just as our people have done for thousands of years.

Our team worked to create an array of opportunities to empower, educate and care for students. We prioritized physical and emotional safety and pivoted nimbly to meet students’ evolving needs. Together, students, Hillel staff, faculty, administrative allies and community leaders demonstrated resilience, strength and courage.

Naomi Lamb and Cindy Levy