Your Jewish Home Away From Home
Hillel Ottawa’s mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish students so that they may enrich the Jewish people and the world. Hillel Ottawa’s student leaders, staff, and lay leaders are dedicated to creating a pluralistic, welcoming, and inclusive environment. Hillel Ottawa helps students to find a balance between being distinctively Jewish and universally human by encouraging them to pursue tzedek (social justice), tikkun olam (repairing the world), Jewish learning, and to support Israel and global Jewish peoplehood. Hillel Ottawa is committed to excellence, innovation, accountability, and results.
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Director of Hillel Ottawa - Jamie Sweigman
I am thrilled to introduce myself! Having been a student of the University of Ottawa and a resident of the Hillel House during its inaugural year, I experienced firsthand the transformative power of Hillel's mission. As an alumnus of the Jewish fraternity AEPi, I deeply understand the importance of fostering a vibrant and inclusive Jewish community on campus. I am honoured to be a part of Hillel Ottawa and am enthusiastic about guiding our Jewish leaders in achieving the goals we will set forth. Together, we will continue to create an engaging, welcoming, and dynamic environment for all Jewish students.
Connect with me at jsweigman@hillelottawa.ca
Springboard Fellow - Alexa Barett-Taller
I’m passionate about building Jewish community—spaces where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to be themselves. Through meaningful conversations, engaging programs, and joyful holiday celebrations, I strive to create connection, pride, and belonging. Raised in the Dominican Republic and shaped by my experiences in Canada, I bring a deep commitment to equity, mental health, and inclusive Jewish community. I studied Global and International Studies at Carleton University, where I led campus inclusion initiatives ranging from therapy dogs to kosher catering at student events. As a Springboard Fellow at Hillel Ottawa, I’m excited to continue learning, growing, and helping to strengthen Jewish life on campus by supporting students and building a vibrant, welcoming community. Let’s connect: abarett-taller@hillelottawa.ca
Israel Fellow - Yaron Zlot
I am truly excited to begin working with Hillel Ottawa students and to be part of their student life journey. Since I remember myself, I was always connected to the Jewish diaspora, and I see myself as a bridge between cultures—bringing diverse experiences, perspectives, and stories that can enrich the Hillel environment. As an alumnus of the Hebrew University, I was exposed to students from different cultures and backgrounds, and I hope to inspire students to appreciate the diversity of the Jewish culture. I look forward to creating a positive and supportive community where every student feels valued, empowered, encouraged to grow personally and acquire knowledge.
Please connect: yzlot@hillelottawa.ca
and the Beth Shalom Legacy Fund