The University of Denver Hillel chapter will dedicate the new Merage & Allon Hillel Center from 4–6 p.m. on Sept. 26. The two-story, 8,000-square-foot center is 10 times larger than the group’s former building.
Chancellor Robert Coombe, building namesakes Harvey Allon and David Merage, and Eran Gasko from Hillel’s International Center, will speak during the dedication. Rabbi Julian Cook of Congregation Emanuel will perform a mezuzah ceremony, during which a sign and reminder of the Jewish faith will be affixed to the doorpost. Kosher food will be provided.
The new Hillel Center includes a student lounge, library, offices, game room, chapel, kosher kitchens and multipurpose rooms wired for multimedia use. The building also has wireless access. It will serve as a student activity center for DU students, of which approximately 1,000 are Jewish, and for Jewish students from throughout the Denver metro area.
Hillel, a non-funded student organization, has been a presence on the DU campus since the 1950s and was located in the Max Frankel Hillel House for the past 16 years. Although Hillel is a specifically Jewish organization, it is engaged in partnerships with many organizations on campus, says Pat Blumenthal, Hillel’s statewide executive director.
“We hope that the new center will provide opportunities for the campus as a whole.” Blumenthal says.
The Merage & Allon Hillel Center is located at 2390 S. Race St., on the corner of Race and Wesley. The event is open to the public, but RSVPs are requested. To register, contact Pat Blumenthal at 303-777-2773, x225 or by e-mail atpat@hillelcolorado.org.