Hillel has raised $9.5 million of its $12 million goal for the new Kristol Center, including gifts of over $1 million each from Stuart and Suzanne Grant, the Kristol family and the Book family. In recognition of these transformational gifts, the new facility will be named the Stuart and Suzanne Grant Hillel at the Kristol Center for Jewish Life.
“We’re making an investment in the future of the Jewish people,” Stuart Grant said. “This building will be a place where UD students go to turn that spark of Judaism into a lifelong Jewish journey. And within this new building, the Jewish students of the University of Delaware will have a place to go in refuge for trying times and a place to celebrate joyous times.”
Gov. Matt Meyer said the groundbreaking event was a momentous occasion not just for the University but for the entire state of Delaware.
“Through facilities like this … I have confidence that we can continue as a people around the world and as a people here — the Blue Hen [Jewish community] — that we can thrive for generations to come,” Meyer said.
Amidst a recent rising tide of antisemitism on college campuses around the country, the new building will serve as a welcoming space where students can authentically express their identities, engage in Jewish life and find a shared community.
“This represents much more than bricks and mortar. It really stands as a symbol of resilience, of identity and of unwavering community,” said Neil Book, a donor and UD alumnus. “My hope and prayer is that this will always serve as a place where Jewish students not only find connection and joy, but also strength and courage in who they are. When I look at this building, it says to me that we’re here to stay.”