Who we are
The center of Jewish life at UCF
A place to learn, lead, and belong since 2001
Our home
One building, four campuses, one community
Central Florida Hillel is the center for Jewish life on campus at UCF, Full Sail, Valencia, and Seminole State. Based right off UCF’s main campus, the Jeffrey and Diane Ginsburg Center for Jewish Student Life is a space Jewish students can call home.
UCFFull SailValenciaSeminole State
Mission
Central Florida Hillel is the foundation from which a student journeys to become their ultimate self, and a catalyst for transformational growth as an individual and as a Jew.
Vision
We envision a world in which every student is inspired to make an enduring commitment to Jewish life, learning, and Israel.
1,000+
So far for school year 2026-2027 Hille has touch the lives of Jewish students.
2001
The year the Jewish Federation of Greater Orlando founded Central Florida Hillel
Every Friday
Shabbat dinner at no cost at Hillel students.
4
Campuses served: UCF, Full Sail, Valencia, and Seminole State
What we do
Four doors into Jewish life
Shabbat and holidays
Candle lighting, a home-cooked dinner, and a hundred friends every Friday. High Holidays, Sukkot, Hanukkah, and Passover at the Ginsburg Center.
Learning
Jewish Learning Fellowship cohorts, conversations with our rabbi and educators, and the Poland Fellowship. No background required.
Israel
Birthright Israel, Onward Israel internships, and weekly culture with our Israel Fellow, from Hebrew over coffee to music nights.
Wellness and support
A staff that notices when you walk in the door, wellness programs, and a place to land during a hard week or a great one.
Come see it for yourself
Students, parents, and friends are welcome any day we’re open. The best first visit is a Friday night.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
What is Hillel?
As the largest Jewish student organization in the world, Hillel builds connections with emerging adults at more than 550 colleges and universities and inspires them to stay engagement with the Jewish Community. During their formative college years, students are challenged to explore, experience, and create vibrant Jewish lives. Hillel International is based in Washington, D.C. Central Florida Hillel is its home for UCF, Full Sail, Valencia, and Seminole State.
Does Hillel have a membership fee?
No. Thanks to the generous support of our community, Shabbat dinners, holiday meals, and programs are offered free of charge to students. These opportunities are made possible by the generosity of our donors, parents, and alumni. If you would like to help make these experiences possible for our students, please visit our Donate page to learn more about ways to support UCF Hillel.
How do I get more involved in Hillel?
Show up once and we take it from there. Come to Shabbat dinner on a Friday or Nosh on a Wednesday, Bagel Brunch on Sunday and follow @ucfhillel, and sign up for the weekly email at the bottom of this page. Ask any staff member about the Student Board, the Jewish Learning Fellowship, Israel trips, or starting something new. The calendar has this week.
Does Hillel offer a Birthright Israel trip?
Yes. UCF Hillel recruits and sends students on Birthright Israel, a free ten-day trip, and on Onward Israel summer internships. Start with UCF to Israel or email our IACT Coordinator, Amberley Gin at Amberley.Gin@centralfloridahillel.org
Does Hillel provide kosher food?
All meals served at UCF Hillel are kosher. When you RSVP, please let us know about any food allergies or dietary restrictions so we can do our best to accommodate your needs.
Do I need to be Jewish to participate?
No. Hillel is for Jewish students of every background, and for anyone who wants to experience Jewish life. Friends, roommates, and partners are welcome at Shabbat and at all programs.
Is Hillel open on the weekends?
Yes! We are open everyday! Check out our Instagram @ucfhillel for details.
What does a regular week at Hillel look like?
Join us throughout the week for opportunities to connect, learn, and build community. Enjoy meals at no cost. Wednesday Nosh dinner, participate in Jewish learning and Israel programs, or spend time studying and relaxing with friends in our student lounge.
Every Friday evening, we gather for Shabbat services and dinner at 6:00 PM, and on Sundays, students can join us for Bagel Brunch at 12:00 PM. Holiday celebrations, trips, and other special events take place throughout the year.
Visit our Events page to see what’s happening this week.
Still wondering about something? Email info@centralfloridahillel.org or stop by the Jeffrey and Diane Ginsburg Center, 3925 Lockwood Blvd, Oviedo, FL 32765.