It is always hard to be away from family during a holiday. Over the past few years it became a tradition for some staff and their families to open their home and provide a place for students to observe Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. We cook traditional meals and provide students with time to connect with each other. Unfortunately, this year students were unable to mix with other dorms groups during Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, so our tradition was put on hold. I was disappointed that I could not host our usual celebration. I have really enjoyed celebrating with our students, not to mention expanding my cooking abilities! Although these are still weird times, yesterday we celebrated the first night of Hanukkah as a group. One of our current student’s father is a Rabbi and Zoomed in to lead us in blessings, songs and lighting of the Menorah. From the Oli Family to yours, we wish you a Happy Hanukkah!

Connor Fahey
Dean of Student Life & Merrill Dorm Parent