Last month, IU Hillel was fortunate to have Sybil Mervis talk to Hillel’s Student Leadership Board about the inspiring work she has done. She exemplifies the ideals of tikkun olam and tzedakah, and sees that her life’s mission is to improve the world. Mervis is a businesswoman, community volunteer and philanthropist, as well as a former teacher.

She is passionate about children and education, and strives to fulfill her life’s calling through volunteer service. Students were in awe of what Sybil has accomplished in her life. She challenged them to seek out their own ways to repair the world.

This past December, IU Hillel staff went with 60 students to Israel on Taglit-Birthright Israel—the gift of a free trip to Israel for Jewish young adults ages 18-27. IU Freshman Max Fader described the trip, “Taglit-Birthright Israel was a life-changing experience! Not only did it give me the amazing opportunity to visit the homeland of my ancestors, but it helped me realize my personal Jewish identity.” This summer, Hillel plans to take another 120 IU students to Israel. Visit freeisraeltrip.org for more information.

The phone has been ringing off the hook as students who are feeling under the weather call The Mordoh Matzah Ball Soup Hotline. Thanks to the generosity of Leon Mordoh, we are able to deliver matzah ball soup anywhere in Bloomington. Call us at 812.336.3824.

Sybil Mervis, the founders and funders of Taglit-Birthright Israel and Leon Mordoh exemplify the fundamental Jewish principals of tikkun olam and tzedakah. It is through experiences like these that our students learn about Judaism.