Housewarming Gifts for Hillel

Trips to Israel. Leadership development programs. A Judaica library. These are just a few of the offerings available through Hillel, a community that helps students explore their Jewish identity and provides educational and social programming to all those interested in Jewish culture and values. The brand-new Norman M. Fain Hillel Center opened in January, 2010.  The Center includes multipurpose lounges, a kosher kitchen and dining space and a sanctuary. Named for the late Norman Fain ’36, Hon. ’67, whose family donated $1 million in his memory, the new home for Hillel is located  on the site of the former Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity.

Executive Director Amy Olson lauds AEPi for offering the building to Hillel. “Essentially, it was donated it to us, and AEPi will be recognized for its generosity in the new center.  Several AEPi brothers from the classes of 1967-1973 also made donations to the new building in memory of their deceased brothers.

For donors who have no connection to AEPi, the motivation to support the campaign is driven by the sense of belonging Hillel fosters among the student body. “While Hillel is not a religious organization, the ‘ethos’ of Judaism can be developed and create lasting friendships for a lifetime. I was proud to do my part in creating the building,” says Bruce Sherman ’69.

A significant number of gifts have been made to support the new center, including several major gifts made by URI alumni, including, Mr. and Mrs. Victor Baxt ’38, Mr. and Mrs. David R. Wilkes ’43, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Ross ’64, and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bornstein ‘71.

This deep-seated regard for the time-honored institution extends beyond the alumni base. The Jewish Federation of Rhode Island, which solicits donations locally to improve Jewish life in RI and overseas, donated $150,000. Its gift illustrates that Hillel is more than a campus organization – it is a resource for all.  Moreover, Audrey Sokoloff, and her husband, Tim Hosking, donated $35,000, a gift doubled by an anonymous donor -unaffiliated with the University - who has provided up to $250,000 in matching funds. Hillel Board President and benefactor Barbara Sokoloff ’64, ’71, says her daughter’s gift is “heartwarming” and represents her belief in “my commitment to Hillel.”

These generous contributions to a new Hillel secure its future. Generations to come will have the opportunity to experience Jewish history and traditions. To partake in this exciting endeavor, contact Amy Olson at amyolson@mail.uri.edu for more information about the challenge grant or naming and other giving opportunities.