Santa Barbara Hillel is one of five Hillels worldwide to receive a 2013 Vision and Values award from Hillel: The Foundation for Jewish Campus Life. The Indispensable Campus Partner Award is presented to a Hillel that demonstrates full immersion in the life of the university and is regarded by the campus community and administration as an indispensable partner that enhances student life.

“I am so pleased to congratulate Santa Barbara Hillel on receiving the Vision and Values Award at the Hillel International conference this year,” said Henry Yang, UC Santa Barbara Chancellor. “This honor is a special affirmation of their commitment to providing a warm and welcoming gathering place for our students and community, and to fostering spiritual, emotional, cultural, and intellectual growth for students of all backgrounds.”

Santa Barbara Hillel has demonstrated a deep commitment to ensuring civility and respect for students of all backgrounds and perspectives. Santa Barbara Hillel has been at the forefront of diversity work at UCSB. Their work has resulted in collaborative partnerships with a wide variety of groups on campus.

Rabbi Evan Goodman, Executive Director of Santa Barbara Hillel, noted that, “When issues related to divestment and Israel dominated the Spring Quarter, Santa Barbara Hillel worked closely with students and administration to address the situation calmly and thoughtfully.” Many students described Hillel as “their rock” during this time. Hillel partnered closely with many university programs, and continues to do so. As a result, Rabbi Goodman noted, “UCSB has recently become the University of California campus with the highest percentage of Jewish students, and the University is hiring its first ever endowed chair in Jewish studies. We are so proud of our work with Jewish students and with students of all faiths and traditions.”

“It is my honor to recognize Santa Barbara Hillel for their commitment to being a vital campus partner and leader in the areas of diversity, tolerance and multiculturalism,” said Scott Brown, Hillel’s Vice President for Talent, as he presented the award. “Santa Barbara Hillel has gone above and beyond to promote an inclusive environment on campus.”

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