Every spring, senior Jayhawks look forward to the culmination of their time at the University of Kansas with a few traditions: walking under the Campanile and standing together under the tallit to receive their graduation blessing from Rabbi Neal Schuster, KU Hillel’s rabbi and senior Jewish educator.
“Each year we invite our seniors and their families to celebrate their accomplishments, receive their Campanile mezuzah, and have a moment to intentionally pause before they leave our nest to reflect on their Jewish journey at KU,” said Suzy Sostrin, executive director of KU Hillel.
KU Hillel recently celebrated with havdalah and dinner. Just as havdalah marks the end of a beautiful Shabbat and welcomes in the new week, it also marked a time of transition and the start of a new journey for the Class of 2021.
The outdoor event took place on the terrace of HERE apartments with views of the Campanile — a fitting location for the seniors who received their Campanile mezuzah, created to look like the famous campus landmark.
“I loved getting my iconic Campanile mezuzah KU Hillel gave to seniors, and being together one last time,” said Miriam Adler. “I can’t wait to hang up my mezuzah at my next home.”
Following the havdalah service, Rabbi Schuster gathered the seniors under a tallit, spread out like a chuppah, and shared some final words of wisdom with the students, culminating in the Priestly Blessing. This tradition was a moving moment for the graduates as they feel the support of their Hillel family and their loved ones.
“Not only did I celebrate the end of my undergraduate journey surrounded by my peers and family, it also marked a personal commemoration of reuniting with loved ones nearing the end of the global pandemic,” said Ilexa Axelrod. “I believe that it was the perfect metaphor for closing one chapter and starting a new one.”
KU Hillel also created gift bags for all the seniors.
“We give them gifts, but it’s about much more than, ‘You’re graduating, mazel tov, here’s some stuff,’” said Rabbi Schuster. “Everything we prepare for the graduates is symbolic and means something; from the Campanile mezuzah, down to the number of shabbat candles we put in the bag.”
In addition to the student-favorite Campanile mezuzot, seniors received havdalah candles, custom embroidered KU Hillel blankets and six sets of Shabbat candles.
“Hillel’s graduation havdalah was so meaningful, being able to be surrounded by great friends, mentors, and family, all of whom helped shape my college experience,” said Abrie Berkowitz. “I’m so grateful to have been surrounded by everyone there!”
