The University is partnering with Hillel, a Jewish campus organization, to transform vacant Kutz Hall into a new Center for Jewish Life. The Center is part of a $25 million campaign sponsored by “a coalition of philanthropists, trustees, faculty, alumni, and parents,” according to the Executive Director of Hillel and Senior Jewish Chaplain Rabbi Seth Winberg. Plans for the new center include a kosher cafe, spaces for events and Shabbat meals, student lounges, a rooftop deck and more. 

The center was proposed due to Hillel “outgrow[ing] [their] small office in Usdan and currently rent[ing] scattered rooms across campus for activities" as well as a way to foster Jewish life on campus. Winberg said that “Hillel has been in discussions with the university for several years about the critical need for a permanent physical home.” Community Engagement Coordinator for Brandeis Hillel Coco Trentalancia '27, said that “Hillel having its own building will really take Jewish life at Brandeis to the next level and allow it to soar.” 

Kutz Hall, located in North Quad, was once home to the Campus Card Office, University Events, the Registrar, International Students and Scholars Office and Office of Graduate Affairs, as well as some classrooms. The offices formerly in the building were relocated to various parts of campus, leaving the building vacant. According to Daniel Tress, the Associate Director of Capital Programs, “I don't believe [the Center for Jewish Life] was ever the "original plan" for Kutz Hall. [The project] has been under discussion for several years without a clearly viable location. Kutz became the most viable location once it was vacated.” 

Planning and fundraising for the project are still in the early stages, and it is unknown when construction is set to begin. Nonetheless, construction will commence in a way that will cause the least amount of disturbance to the students living in North Quad dorms near the Kutz building, according to Tress. Winberg stated that more information on the project will be released this October.