Dear Cornell Hillel Community,
On Friday, President Martha Pollack shared an additional announcement with students, suspending all in-person instruction for the rest of the semester. We wish to reinforce President Pollack’s message and encourage students to return home to their permanent residences and to avoid social gatherings.
Two thousand years ago, our namesake Hillel taught us the need for collective responsibility, especially in times of crisis. Hillel said, “If I am only for myself, what am I?” We care deeply about the safety and wellbeing of all our students and staff and as such have made the difficult decision to suspend all Cornell Hillel in-person programs, religious services, and classes for the semester.
As we close our doors, our hearts remain open. We are doubling down on our commitment to support you through this transition. The Cornell Hillel team is creating powerful virtual opportunities for students to connect to community, each other, and Jewish wisdom.  Connect: Our team including six Senior Jewish Educators and Rabbis are meeting connecting and reflecting with students over Zoom every day. Want to explore what the Torah says about a crisis? Need help thinking through your Passover plans? Just want a distraction and to discuss what’s new on Netflix? We’re here. Message us on Facebook, Instagram, or email us at cuhillel@gmail.com.
Shabbat: Join Base Ithaca’s Rabbi Hayley and Lizzie for interactive Shabbat services, learning, and prayer opportunities. Follow Base_Ithaca on Instagram and Facebook.
How can we help you? We want to know what you need. We’re gathering information about food needs during Passover for Cornell Dining. Fill out this link if you may be in Ithaca for Passover: https://docs.google.com/…/1FAIpQLSeXaH1rhQ1lYRDzqn…/viewform
Stay connected and up to date on Facebook, Instagram, or email us at cuhillel@gmail.com with any questions. We want to acknowledge that this time is unsettling and reiterate that the Hillel community is here for you.
  Rabbi Ari Weiss Executive Director
Avi Kupperman Executive Board President