Phew! 2020 is over. KU Hillel, despite the circumstance surrounding the pandemic, held a meaningful and successful fall semester. Now that 2021 is here and the spring semester is beginning, KU Hillel aims to go above and beyond in programming and engagement.
Innovative programming will take place both virtually and in person. For freshmen, they will have interesting events to get to know each other like a Freshman Fry Series, where local fries from Lawrence restaurants will be taste-tested and ranked for these new-to-Lawrence students. All Hillel students can look forward to a murder mystery adventure in the KU Student Union ballroom, which, along with masks, allows for plenty of social distancing. When winter begins to fade, outdoor events will resume, such as Shabbats with take-away meals and Hillel’s annual formal.
“We are looking forward to a new semester with plenty of safe opportunities for students to get together,” said Ira Kirschner, KU Hillel assistant director. “We will have an interesting mix of outdoor programs with food, indoor events in large spaces without food and a few virtual events. This allows students with a variety of comfort levels to have Hillel programming.”
Passover is quickly approaching and KU Hillel will host a virtual seder with kosher for Passover meal pickup or delivery, just like last year.
“Our community enjoyed having a delicious dinner and a Zoom seder so we could be together — but apart,” Kirschner said.
Of course, the looming pandemic still dictates how events can be safely held. Masks will be required at all in-person gatherings and inside KU Hillel.
“We plan to continue to adhere to safety measures but will amp up our creativity in bringing students together without compromising health,” Kirschner said. “We are looking forward to the semester ahead and cannot wait to get started.”
