About Us
University at Albany Hillel is an organization dedicated to empowering students to develop strong Jewish identities through creative self-expression. The Hillel community is driven by an eclectic group of students who each bring their own unique perspective of Jewish life on campus. Our staff and student leaders creates fun, meaningful, and inclusive experiences that are designed to strengthen each participant's connection with Israel, their own Jewish identity, and one another. Come join us!
Experience
From Shabbat dinners, to apple picking, to our weekly hangout, Tuesday Shmoozeday, we have an event for you! Our staff and student leaders work together to bring you classic and creative experiences and activities. With so many events, don't forget your homework...
Follow us for the latest!
Mission & Vision
Our Mission: Enriching the lives of Jewish students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world.
Our Vision: We envision a world where every student is inspired to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel.
OUR TEAM
RABBI NOMI MANON
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Rabbi Manon has been the Executive Director of UAlbany Hillel for 18 years and is inspired by students every day. Nomi is a graduate of Alfred University and The Reconstructionist Rabbinical College, where she received her Rabbinic ordination. In Rabbinical school Nomi’s specialization was in campus work which focused on enhancing the Jewish experience of college students as well as non-profit management and fundraising. She is passionate about working at UAlbany Hillel, a pluralist organization that recognizes, supports, and encourages all types of Jewish expression. Nomi encourages students to explore their many identities and passions in a Jewish context. Nomi also works extensively with the UAlbany administration to ensure that Jewish students are supported on campus. Nomi is always available for informal counseling and conversations about life, Judaism, politics, and relationships. Nomi has two daughters and three step-daughters which gives her personal insight into teen and young adult issues, experiences, and viewpoints.
Parker Meyers
COLLEGE TO COMMUNITY COORDINATOR
Born and raised in Sarasota, Florida, Parker Meyers received a BFA from Ringling College of Art and Design in Film, with a minor in Business of Art and Design. He is an award-winning filmmaker who has worked in various roles of production on both indie and studio work. After relocating to the Capital Region, he became very involved in the local Jewish community, as well as began working as a religious school teacher and youth director at his synagogue. He enjoys studying Torah and exploring a wide range of Jewish texts, utilizing his writing background to create stories, commentaries, and reflections based on his interests. His writing work has branched off into him pursuing a MA in Jewish Studies, with a focus on Jewish Philosophy, that he is attending through Yeshiva University. He is very passionate about cultivating personal Jewish identity that is meaningful to everyone, regardless of background, knowing the importance of a pluralistic community, and aims to be a resource and friendly face both on and off campus. When he’s not working, he enjoys working on his film/tv projects, reading, and spending time with his dogs.
Janna Tukh Einat
ISRAEL FELLOW
Janna is a first-year Jewish Agency Israel Fellow at the University at Albany Hillel.
Born and raised in Israel’s Negev desert, she values the region’s natural beauty and quiet strength. In her youth, she was active in the HaNoar HaOved VeHaLomed youth movement. Janna holds a B.A. in Political Science and Sociology-Anthropology. During her studies, she interned at the Israeli parliament, coordinated the Young Woman Politicians program at Ben-Gurion University, and participated in the DiploAct program, focused on Israeli public diplomacy and advocacy.
During her studies for a master’s degree in Israel Studies, Janna worked at the Student Authority of the Israeli Ministry of Immigration and Integration, engaging with young Jewish adults from around the world and accompanying them throughout their academic journey in Israel. She also worked at the Ben-Gurion Archive and combined this with educational and social mentoring at an elementary school in her hometown.
Janna speaks three languages- Hebrew, Russian, and English.
She hopes to inspire curiosity and initiative among students, introduce them to new and unexpected dimensions of Israel, and help build a strong, supportive, and inclusive community.
