Rutgers Hillel to honor Rabbi Esther Reed
Rutgers Hillel will honor Rabbi Esther Reed, the organization’s chief operating officer, at its Signature Celebration on April 26. Rabbi Reed, who is leaving Hillel after nearly 25 years of service, will receive the Ner Tamid Eternal Light award in recognition of her transformative impact on Jewish life at Rutgers.
Over the course of her tenure at Rutgers, Rabbi Reed supported generations of Jewish students and played a central role in the opening of Rutgers Hillel’s Halpern House nine years ago. She has received many awards and held leadership roles throughout her career. She was the president of the New Jersey Rabbinical Assembly and the inaugural co-chair of the Rutgers University chancellor’s advisory committee on antisemitism and Jewish life. She earned the Richard M. Joel Exemplar of Excellence award from Hillel International and Rutgers University’s Arrigo Rogers Advisor of the Year award.
“Serving thousands of Jewish students over two decades at Rutgers Hillel has been the greatest honor,” Rabbi Reed said. “I’m grateful for the entire Rutgers community and the greater Jewish community in New Jersey for their support over the years. None of my work would have been possible without my extraordinary colleagues, and I can’t wait to see how they grow from here.”
“Rabbi Esther Reed has supported Jewish students at Rutgers through their questions, milestones, and everything in between,” Lisa Harris Glass, CEO of Rutgers Hillel, said. “We are excited for her to embark on her next journey, but her generous spirit, joyful Judaism, and friendship will be missed.”
“Rabbi Esther Reed’s extraordinary dedication to Rutgers Hillel has translated into life-changing impact for thousands of Jewish students at Rutgers,” Adam Lehman, president and CEO of Hillel International, said. “It’s wonderful to be able to celebrate her impact and elevate her distinguished tenure as a model for other professionals across our Hillel movement.”
This year’s honorees also include Irene Goldfarb and Samuel Goldfarb z”l, who will be recognized with the Rabbi Julius Funk Z”L Alumni award. Eden Greenfest ’26 and Ian Harris ’26 will be honored with the Andrew Getraer Exemplars of Excellence award. Abigail Feinsod ’26, Joe Gindi ’26, Lily Rudd ’26, and Leah Spector ’26 will be named Student Rising Stars in recognition of their impact on Rutgers Hillel.
Speakers will include Ms. Glass and representatives of the Rutgers Hillel student board and board of directors. The organization’s a capella group, Kol Halayla, will perform.
Go to RutgersHillel.org, email beth@rutgershillel.org or call (732) 545-2407 ext. 26 for information.