A new calendar year marks the symbolic opportunity for reflection, resolution and a renewed commitment to working toward a brighter future.

Over the past year, Jewish Greater Philadelphia has experienced an unprecedented rise in incidents of antisemitism, specifically college students have been subjected to harassment, vandalism, intimidation and the disruption of Jewish events. 76% of students believe antisemitism has gotten worse across college campuses according to the Jewish Federation’s Center to Combat Antisemitism’s partner Stand Up to Jewish Hate.

That is why the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia remains dedicated to addressing all forms of hate, proactively preparing community members with security trainings and educational workshops and immediately responding to incidents as they arise. As part of its ongoing commitment, the Jewish Federation recently launched its Center to Combat Antisemitism to heighten its efforts to stop Jewish hate.

“Starting the new year, I am optimistic that the Jewish Federation’s ongoing conversations with administrators at colleges and universities in Greater Philadelphia, especially in tandem with our Hillels and other agency partners, will effect change,” said Jason Holtzman, the Jewish Federation’s director of the Jewish Community Relations Council. “There is much work to be done, but we are committed to our community, student safety and combating antisemitism. This vital work will not just have an impact on Jewish students today, but for generations to come.”

As 2025 begins, the Jewish Federation turns to the next generation who has experienced the brunt of the historic surge in antisemitism to share their thoughts of the past year and their hopes for the future. 

West Chester University Hillel

"In these many years of unrest and unprecedented antisemitism—especially now, as we face some of the hardest times—I continue to hold onto hope for a glimmer of peace. I believe this hope will transform into lasting solutions for the Jewish people. May this vision of peace and prosperity become a reality, fostering a world where Jewish people can thrive without fear." – Tyler Lehman, Class of 2026

Penn Hillel

“In a year marked by a troubling rise in antisemitism, my hope for the future is that Penn's Jewish community emerges stronger and more unified than ever. I aspire to see us move beyond the challenges of the past year and a half with an even deeper pride in our Jewish identity, refusing to shy away from who we are. As a senior at Penn, I personally aim to carry that pride forward, continuing to embrace and celebrate my Jewish identity and values in all aspects of my life.” – Maya Harpaz, Class of 2025

Hillel At Temple University

"I hope and believe in a future where Jewish students feel safe to openly express their Judaism without fear of being intimated or ostracized. On a broader level, I hope for the safety of Jewish people around the world and continue to hope for lasting peace in the Middle East." – Sara Bock, Class of 2027

Hillel at Drexel University

"Personally, I hope to stay connected to the values and traditions that have shaped me during my time at Drexel, like hosting Shabbat dinners with my friends and expanding my learning. For the community, I hope we continue to stand together and celebrate our shared traditions that bring light and connection to everyone. I’m so grateful for the joy and support that the Hillel community has given me, and I am excited to graduate and be a part of Jewish Philly's vibrant future." – Zoe Kronish, Class of 2025

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Start 2025 off strong and help the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia in its mission to create a safer future for all, free from hate. Show your commitment to the Jewish community at jewishphilly.org/donate.