The university environment is a marketplace of ideas and experiences that can pose both challenges and opportunities to an Orthodox Jew's observance and commitment. In recognition that the overwhelming majority of Modern Orthodox college students are being educated at secular universities, the OU, in partnership with Hillel, administers the Heshe and Harriet Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC), a program that helps Orthodox students navigate the college environment, and balance their Jewish commitments with their desire to engage the secular world. In addition, JLIC provides avenues for spiritual development and exploration for Jewish students from varied backgrounds; JLIC presents a positive, sophisticated and welcoming face for Orthodox Judaism on campus.
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The Heshe and Harriet Seif Jewish Learning Initiative on Campus (JLIC) strives to tailor its activities to the particular needs and culture of each local campus environment and in a manner that would accentuate the unique strengths and talents of the couple. As a result, key aspects of the program, such as the target populations, specific JLIC activities and Shiurim, relationships with student leadership, etc., will differ significantly from campus to campus. However, while the specific activities and focus at each campus might differ, each JLIC couple utilizes the same overall techniques and approach. There are five "hallmarks" of JLIC's educational methodology which are then adapted and applied within each local campus context.
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The mission of JLIC is threefold:
- To enable, encourage, and advance the Torah education and commitment of Orthodox students at secular universities.
- To provide avenues to spiritual development and exploration for Jewish students from all backgrounds.
- To strengthen Orthodox communities on campus in a manner that also encourages openness and mutual respect to all Jews and Jewish communities on campus.
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