For many students, being away from home can be especially challenging during major holidays — and Passover is no exception.
But, thanks to the efforts of student leaders like Sophie Genshaft, the engagement intern and holiday chair at UW Hillel, Jewish students at the University of Wisconsin can look forward to a warm, welcoming and meaningful Passover experience this year.
Genshaft helps connect with students, hosts tabling events and plays a major role in organizing Jewish holidays throughout the academic year.
“This year we’re offering a ton for Passover, which I think is really great,” Genshaft said.
Passover begins Saturday, April 12 and Hillel is kicking things off with two Seder options in the evening.
These consist of a traditional family-style Seder Passover meal and a shorter 30-minute version, Genshaft said.
“A lot of Jewish students come from different backgrounds — whether that’s conservative or reform — so people like to celebrate Passover in different ways,” Genshaft said. “We want to offer options that make everyone feel included.”
The celebrations continue Sunday, April 13, with a Yontif Passover lunch and another family-style Seder in the evening, according to Genshaft.
From Monday, April 14 through Sunday, April 20, UW Hillel will also provide daily Passover-friendly meals — lunch at 11:30 a.m. and dinner at 5 p.m. — to support students who choose to keep kosher for Passover, Genshaft said.
“It’s really nice for students living in dorms or who don’t have a place to cook,” Genshaft said.
One event Genshaft is particularly excited about is Torah on the Terrace, a special gathering Friday, April 18 which brings students together to study Torah in a casual, outdoor setting.
For Genshaft, last year’s Passover was especially memorable.
“It was my first Passover away from home and I was nervous,” Genshaft said. “But getting to lead a Seder for over 100 students and seeing how everyone brought their own traditions to the table was just amazing. It really felt like a new kind of family.”
More than just food and festivities, these events highlight what makes Hillel so impactful — a strong sense of community and opportunities for students to grow, Genshaft said.
These events create spaces where students can connect deeply with their identity, build lasting friendships and find support throughout their college journey.
“I hope students come and see how amazing Hillel is — how many leadership opportunities there are and how much fun it can be to get involved,” Genshaft said. “It opens up a whole different community, especially when you’re far from home.”
