Openness and Opportunities

The first few weeks at college are exciting and also challenging, as students adjust to life away from home, form new friendships and learn to navigate the new architecture and culture of on-campus life. For those interested in learning about Jewish identity and experience, the Milton B. Asbell Center for Jewish Life is a nerve center of cultural discovery. And for those who grew up in the Jewish tradition, it’s a place to continue that spiritual journey within a welcoming community, in ways old and new.

Throughout the academic year, the Asbell Center hosts and organizes religious services and holiday parties, lectures and activities centering on Jewish culture, kosher cooking classes and bagel brunches as well as interfaith events presented collaboratively with the Office of Religious Life. There’s also an in-house café.

“I just walked in … and I met all of these amazing people,” says Jessica Herrmann ’16, recalling the day she checked out the center during her first semester on campus. “I felt like I was part of the group already.”

Yael Farber ’17, a reform Jew, appreciated the chance to join a diverse community. “It was really eye-opening to me to hear from my friends who grew up with very different backgrounds,” she says.

“Being able to have the opportunity to have different leadership roles [through the Asbell Center] has really shaped who I am,” adds Hannah Glick ’15.

Learn more

• Milton B. Asbell Center for Jewish Life
• “Shared Sadness, Renewed Hope”
• Opportunities for Engagement
• Dickinson Admissions
• Latest News

Published October 7, 2014