Jewish Life
Albion students help restore the New Jewish Cemetery in Wroclaw, Poland every two years.
A vital part of the Albion experience is the College's commitment to diversity, equal rights, spirituality, and justice. With courses in gender and ethnicity required for graduation, as well as a variety of College and student groups dedicated to enriching the lives of all students, Albion offers a welcoming and comfortable environment for people of all backgrounds—including specific programs and events for our Jewish students.
Albion College has a policy of offering single-gender housing and dining allowances for students with religious, cultural, and/or ethnic needs. Contact the Chaplain's Office for more information.
For 10 years, the College's Holocaust Studies Service-Learning Project has traveled to Europe for a unique, firsthand learning experience. Read about the class' latest trip to Poland to help restore a Jewish cemetery and visit Holocaust memorial sites.
Shabbat
Once a month, all members of the Albion College community are invited to welcome the Sabbath with the traditional Jewish prayers. This program is co-sponsored by Hillel and the Office of the Chaplain, and is open to all members of the Albion College community.
Hillel Chapter
Hillel is a Jewish student group devoted to observance of Jewish traditions and holidays, as well as educating the campus about Jewish life. Albion Hillel sponsors Shabbat dinners, Seders, and high holy day observances, along with other cultural and religious programming.
Dr. Frank Kelemen, director of Albion College Counseling Services, serves as staff adviser to Albion Hillel. As adviser, Kelemen believes it is his job to help Hillel members develop their leadership abilities while strengthening their Jewish identity. Dr. Kelemen also co-teaches the Holocaust Studies Seminar.
Hillel is part of Umbrella, Albion's diversity groups, and members actively contribute to diversity efforts throughout campus.
The Bridge
The Bridge is Albion's student interfaith council, advising and coordinating spiritual life on campus under the supervision of the College Chaplain. The group hosts regular programs to educate the campus about pluralism. A number of Jewish students are active leaders in The Bridge.
Birthright Israel
Albion's Jewish students are encouraged to participate in the Birthright Israel program, where a handful of young Jewish students tour some of Israel's most important sites, like the Western Wall, and visit traditional communities and kibbutzim. Students who participate always come back to campus with fresh energy and new ideas and enthusiasm.
Schedule a visit to Albion College's campus, or apply online!