JLIC Directors at Brandeis University

Who We Are:  

The Orthodox Union's Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (OU-JLIC) places rabbinic couples on college campuses to provide Orthodox Jewish students with Torah education and mentorship, helping them continue their spiritual growth into adulthood. OU-JLIC offers a range of programs, including learning sessions, Shabbat experiences, and social events, fostering a strong sense of community and spiritual growth. Additionally, OU-JLIC extends its support to Israel, offering summer and year-round programs that combine Torah study with professional opportunities.  

The Orthodox Union (OU) is the largest Orthodox Jewish organization in the United States. Founded in 1898, the OU supports a network of synagogues, youth programs, Jewish and Religious Zionist advocacy programs, programs for the disabled, localized religious study programs, and international units. The OU maintains a kosher certification service, whose circled U symbol is found on the labels of many kosher commercial and consumer food products. 

Position Summary:  

The Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC) at Brandeis University seeks a Rabbinic Couple to serve as Directors, residing on the Brandeis University campus in Waltham, MA. This position, offered on a full- or part-time basis, entails the provision of daily Torah study opportunities, including Chevrutot, Chaburot, and Shiurim, as well as the hosting of Shabbat meals, student mentorship, and the facilitation of personal and spiritual growth within the student body.  

Brandeis has a warm, engaged Orthodox student community that's well-integrated into both the broader Jewish life on campus and the university as a whole. There are daily minyanim, kosher food in both dining halls, and a campus eruv. 

Located just outside Boston—one of the largest and most vibrant Jewish communities in the US—Brandeis offers a unique opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a dynamic, intellectually rich campus environment. The position includes a house just off campus.

The Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC) is a program of the Orthodox Union, in partnership with Hillel. https://oujlic.org/     

Duties and Responsibilities:  

• Torah Education and Mentorship: 

• Providing Torah learning opportunities through classes, one-on-one sessions, and informal discussions. 

• Serving as role models and mentors for students navigating the challenges of college life while maintaining their Orthodox Jewish identity. 

• Answering halachic questions and providing spiritual guidance. 

• Community Building: 

• Creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for Jewish students. 

• Organizing Shabbat meals, holiday celebrations, and social events. 

• Fostering relationships with students and building a strong sense of community. 

• Program Development and Implementation: 

• Designing and implementing programs that promote Jewish awareness, learning, and engagement. 

• Coordinating with Hillel and other campus organizations. 

• Creating and maintaining infrastructure to support observant life on campus. 
• Fundraising and administrative duties are also a large part of the work. 

• Student Support: 

• Providing personal support and guidance to students dealing with academic, social, and personal challenges. 

• Coaching students through life events such as dating, engagement, and marriage. 

• Strong Torah Scholarship and Dedication: 

• A deep and broad knowledge of Torah, coupled with a genuine commitment to its values. 

• The ability to effectively impart Torah knowledge to diverse student populations.