On campus, you might have an organization or even a building called Hillel. Hillel is the general name for Jewish campus organizations across North America. Hillel is usually the central address for Jewish life on campus and serves as an umbrella for other Jewish organizations.

On many campuses, Hillel and Kesher have a strong working relationship.  Many Hillel directors themselves come from Reform backgrounds and feel a special affinity toward Kesher.  It is hoped that this is the case at your own campus.  However, sometimes the relationship is less than cordial; some Hillel professionals and more traditional students have a difficult time accepting Reform customs, such as using a guitar on Shabbat or eating foods that do not have an Orthodox hechsher (kosher certification).  In these situations, it becomes very difficult for Kesher to work with the other Jewish student groups connected to Hillel.

Reform Judaism values klal Yisrael, the collective community of Jews in the world. KESHER suggests that individual Kesher chavurot work within the Hillel structure whenever possible. Hillel the Elder, the namesake of the North American organization, once said, "Do not separate yourself from the community" (Pirke Avot 2:5). This is our motto as well. However, if a situation arises in which, even after careful consideration of the circumstances, dialogue with the Hillel staff, and discussion with other students, compromise is not possible, try programming your activities without a relationship to Hillel on your campus. This should be a last resort, however, if this occurs, please notify the KESHER offices at KESHER@uahc.org.

"A Good Name Is Better Than Fine Oil": Choosing a Name for Your Campus Group

Each campus group can name themselves however they please. Most campuses use "Kesher" as their name, which offers less confusion when trying to explain its KESHER affiliation or when advertising a KESHER convention. Some older, well-established groups created their own acronym, such as Brandeis’s BaRuCh group (Brandeis Reform Chavurah)

When thinking about your name, consider which groups you will be affiliated with. Consider other campus group names, and remember that this will be long-lasting. You will also want something that is simple and identifiable. The name (and the KESHER logo or your own logo) will be used to make your group known. Remember that everyone may not know Hebrew; consider an English and Hebrew name.

If you are revitalizing your group, you may also want to consider a name change to create a new image. However, if your group has its name out on campus, a name change could also be a hindrance. Regardless of group name, if you identify with Reform Judaism, then KESHER and the UAHC in general want to work with you!