Dear Friends,

I am pleased to share with you the first WUJS newsletter of 5775. This year marks,not only the beginning of a new year but also the beginning of the shmita year. Coming from biblical origin, this is the final year of a shared calendar cycle, when land is left fallow, debts are forgiven, and a host of other agricultural and economic adjustments are made to ensure the maintenance of an equitable, just, and healthy society. With this in mind, I cannot help but to reflect on the major year ahead for the global Jewish student community. As mentioned in previous newsletters, this year will see us celebrate WUJS’ 90th anniversary, a major milestone for the union. This year for WUJS will be big and bold, which is why I am proud to release the new vision statement for the union which the staff team have been working on over the last couple of months.

WUJS vision is a global, representative, cross-communal and peer-led movement of Jewish students that delivers powerful campaigns that defend Jewish students’ interests; creates diverse and dynamic programming that enriches Jewish life at universities; leads inspiring international events; and develops safe, vibrant spaces for Jewish student activities all over the world.

This message is very clear and I am committed to seeing it come to fruition over the coming year. I encourage you to read on about the many developments for WUJS and our member unions that have taken place over the last month especially the exciting announcement of this years’ WUJS Congress move to the South.

Wishing you a Gmar Chatima Tova,

Andi