Frequently Asked Questions
Click on a question below to go directly to the answer.
How many Jewish students go to Towson University?
How many members does Hillel at Towson have?
How many students are involved with Hillel at Towson?
What does the Hillel at Towson offer besides programming?
How connected is the Hillel to the University community?
Is Hillel only for Jewish students?
What kind of student programs and organizations does Hillel at Towson sponsor?
Is there a Jewish Studies Department at Towson? Can I study Hebrew at Towson?
Are there kosher meals at Towson?
How does Hillel at Towson do Shabbat?
How do you pay for all those amazing programs?
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How many Jewish students go to Towson University? There are approximately 2000 Jewish undergraduate and graduate students at Towson, which is about 10% of the campus student population. As the campus continues to grow, we expect the Jewish population to continue to grow! back to topHow many members does Hillel at Towson have? None! There is no such thing as "membership" at the Hillel at Towson. Everyone is welcome to be a participant in any of the programs that we offer. back to top
How many students are involved with Hillel at Towson? This is a very difficult number to measure, since we have no "membership." We have more than 800 Jewish students on our listserv. There are a hundred student in the lounge on a weekly basis and about 500 students participate in some Towson activity over the course of a semester. We have programs designed for small groups as well as programs that attract over 300 people. Our biggest regular program is Shabbat services and dinner with an average attendance of 50 and up to 200. back to top
What does Towson Hillel offer besides programming? You name it! We are well-known and involved in many aspects of the campus. We work closely with the Towson Jewish Studies Program. Our staff works closely with faculty and administration on many projects, and we offer resources and support of all kinds for our students. Our professional staff is always available for students. The Jewish Activities Center is open to students who want to hang out. We are especially well known for our Alternative Break programs. back to top
How connected is Hillel to the University community?Hillel is integrated into the University community through its dynamic programs, co-sponsorship of events, and the involvement of active students in many other University groups. The University is very supportive of Hillel and its role on campus and works hard to provide a welcoming atmosphere for Jewish students, faculty, and families. We are a member of the Integrated Programming Council and the Interfaith Campus Ministers Association. back to top
Is Hillel only for Jewish students? No! Everyone is welcome at Towson Hillel. Please feel free to bring your non-Jewish friends. We're always glad to answer questions for anyone who is curious about Jewish life. Our non-judgmental environment allows all students to feel comfortable and welcome. back to top
What kind of student programs and organizations does the Towson Hillel sponsor on campus?Towson Hillel is home to several student organizations reflecting the gamut of Jewish life at Towson University. Students are encouraged to pursue their ideas and take the initiative, as well as get involved with existing projects and groups. Visit the Student page for more information about each group. back to top
Is there a Jewish Studies department at Towson? Towson University is proud to house a Jewish Studies Minor program as a part of their Interdisciplinary Studies. Jewish Studies sponsors classes, speakers, and programs throughout the year.back to top
Can I study Hebrew at Towson? Yes! Several levels of Hebrew classes are offered at Towson including: Elementary Hebrew; Intermediate Hebrew, and Composition and Conversation. back to top
Are there kosher meals at Hillel at Towson? Yes. Towson University Dining provides many opportunities for students to enjoy kosher food. Kosher dining is available as a part of a students meal plan at no extra charge. Kosher facilities under the Star-k supervision are available in Newell Dining Hall, next to the Jewish Activities Center. Kosher meals are available Monday - Friday for lunch and dinner. Kosher dinners are available after our Shabbat services and for all major holidays. In addition, meals are available on certain holidays (Rosh Hashanah dinner, Yom Kippur Break-the-Fast, Passover Seder, kosher for Passover lunches and dinners) and often as part of other programs. Weekend kosher food is available in the form of preprepared sandwiches and wraps. In addition, snacks and drinks are often available in our Jewish Activities Center. back to top
How does the Towson Hillel do Shabbat? Shabbat services are held by Hillel every Friday evening in the student union when school is in session. The joy of Shabbat is felt through singing, meeting new people and lighting the candles followed by services. There are two student-led services to choose from: Liberal (Reform), Traditional (Conservative). A delicious kosher dinner follows services. Shabbat Shalom! Shabbat daytime programming is available in the form of periodic services, lunchtime discussions, and havdallah. Check the calendar for more information. back to top
How do you pay for all those amazing programs? Towson Hillel is a program of the Associated. Approximately 50% of our funds come from individual donors like you - parents, alumni, students and other community members who care about Jewish life on campus and believe that infusing young people with positive Jewish identities is something important.We also receive grants and support from Hillel: the Foundation for Jewish Campus Life. back to top
