Fall 2020
What To Expect From Tufts Hillel
Fall Semester 2020
Welcome back!
Whether you are back at Tufts remotely or in person, we hope your summer was restful, fulfilling, fun and meaningful. For those we have yet to meet, we want to welcome you to Tufts, and Tufts Hillel. For those returning, we have missed you! Either way, we are excited to connect with you in the coming days and weeks.
As you know, this year will be different than any other year.
Due to the ongoing concerns posed by COVID19, Hillel staff and student leaders have spent a lot of time over the summer thinking and planning how we can best serve you, the students at Tufts during this challenging time, and to be honest, we have had to make some tough decisions.
The following is a broad framework and also a down-in-the-details logistical explanation of what you can expect from Hillel this semester.
Tufts Hillel is a values-driven organization. This means that the detailed decisions we make are shaped and guided by overarching values. In our planning for this semester we have been guided by the following two Jewish values:
Health & Safety: In Jewish law this is known as Piku’ach Nefesh and it overrides, with rare exception, any other rule. Rabbi Menachem Meiri (1249–1315) an influential Jewish legal authority rules that one should never expose themselves to a health risk hoping for miracles, but should take every sensible precaution. Piku’ach Nefesh, applies to oneself as well as to others. We are all responsible for each other.
Community and Connection: Jewish life plays out in the context of community (Kehi’lah), and human connection, based on the belief that every human being reflects the divine (Tzelem Elokim), is a sacred Jewish value.
Navigating Our Values
Ordinarily these two sets of values do not conflict. In the current COVID situation, they easily can. And so, we have deliberately and thoughtfully navigated a way forward to uphold, as best we can, both values; to build community and foster connection, while adhering to the university guidelines on health & safety. Below is a list of specific outcomes, so you can understand what will remain the same and what will change.
Hours: Monday - Friday 1pm-8pm
Entry: Via keycard only - do not hold the door for others
- Upstairs chapel available only for Digital Media Fellows
- Upstairs and Downstairs restrooms are single use
- Shabbat meals will be prepared to-go, with an option to sit (socially distanced) in our dining room.
Same requirements as other buildings on campus: masks on, wipe down areas when you leave, maintain at least 6 feet of distance, do not move furniture
What will remain the same
Our professional staff are excited to engage with students and will be providing everything you’ve come to expect from them as guides, advisors, pastors, teachers, advocates and friends. They will support student leadership and work alongside them to make Jewish life on campus vibrant and exciting for all.
What will change
Some staff may physically return to campus full-time, while others may work remotely. This reflects the specific personal circumstances each staff member must deal with in relation to COVID. It is not a reflection on their commitment to serving the students, which they will continue to do enthusiastically, if remotely.
What will remain the same
We remain deeply committed to all of the above and, given the precarious state of the world, these elements are more important than ever. We will be investing much time and energy supporting students to foster community, expand their Jewish horizons and make a difference in the world.
What will change
Much of this work will take place in online and digital form. While we will miss the face to face connection this work normally brings, we will, in many ways, be expanding the scope and reach of these important programs and initiatives.
What will remain the same
Welcoming, spirited, student-led, services will take place on Shabbat.
What will change
Services will move online. Some services will livestream, others will be pre-recorded. For High Holidays we will be presenting a comprehensive program of online services, virtual learning sessions and modules for reflection and discussion.
What will remain the same
All will be encouraged to partake in Hillel’s delicious meals.
What will change
- Meals will be ordered through the Tufts Dining App by the deadline listed in the App
- All Hillel meals are listed under Pax Et Lox
- Deadlines will be adhered to this year - we cannot produce extra food that will end up wasted
- Meals will be picked up in basement during your scheduled pick-up time
- Students will be able to stay and eat meals together, with 6+ feet of distance, while space is available.
We continue to want to prevent finances from impeding students’ access to Shabbat or Holiday meals. If you need financial assistance, you can request a meal through Tufts Hillel (hillel-center@tufts.edu) at least 72 hours prior to the meal. For example, if you would like a Shabbat meal for Friday night pick-up, we need the meal request no later than Tuesday at 6pm. Please include the meal you would like, which can be seen through the Tufts Dining App.
We will build a Sukkah outside of Hillel, with capacity limited to current safety guidelines, for students to use for meals or quiet time, however they see fit.
As we navigate this strange and challenging time, your input is more important than ever. We want to work with you to create exciting and meaningful programs and events. Please don't be shy about coming forward with your suggestions. And, given that Tufts Hillel is student-led, staff - supported, be ready to roll up your sleeves and lean in!
And remember, Tufts Hillel is here for you. Don't hesitate to reach out to our staff or student leaders if you need support, advice or help with anything, Jewish - related, or otherwise.
Wishing you a fulfilling, exciting and safe semester!