JLIC directors play a valuable role in fostering Jewish relationships during pivotal university years. Through their consistent presence and guidance, they help students navigate dating, engagement, and early marriage, creating connections that often extend well beyond graduation.
Fostering Meaningful Connections
JLIC directors contribute to relationship development in practical ways. Many officiate at weddings, offer premarital classes, and provide advice during significant life transitions. Their support complements the natural relationship formation that happens on campus, offering Jewish context and perspective when requested.
The personal connections are evident across JLIC campuses. At Rutgers University, Rav Avi and Sara Schwartz have witnessed the fruits of their community-building efforts. In 2025 alone, after five years as directors, they’ve celebrated/will celebrate over 20 weddings—and it’s only May. These couples often include JLIC participants who maintained their connection with the Schwartzes, appreciating their guidance during this important life stage.
Creating Supportive Spaces
JLIC programming provides helpful frameworks for relationship exploration. The Shalom Bayit events in Los Angeles offer insights on building peaceful homes. Queens College hosted a workshop on “Building Healthy Relationships” that gave practical tools for communication and understanding. “Love with the Lorkis” creates comfortable spaces for honest conversations about dating and partnership. At the Valley Hub, dating events guide Persian Jews through navigating relationships while honoring ancestral traditions in a modern world. JLIC also partners with organizations to bring together dozens of young professionals to explore dating insights and overcome relationship obstacles.
The relationship opportunities continue expanding through initiatives like “Let’s Meet,” which connects Jewish singles across Israel, and collaborating with Shagririm B’Lev that broaden social circles for Jewish students and young professionals.
Making a Difference One Relationship at a Time
The impact of JLIC directors comes through their authentic presence during meaningful moments. They celebrate with couples during engagements, participate in weddings they helped couples prepare for, and remain available for counsel as new marriages take shape.
What makes these interactions meaningful is their personal nature. JLIC directors build relationships based on trust and shared experiences. When alumni reach out years later for marriage advice, it reflects the genuine connections formed during university years.
Contributing to Community
JLIC relationship work adds to the vibrancy of campus Jewish life. As students form couples and eventually create Jewish households, they often remain connected to the broader Jewish community.
By offering relationship education, friendly guidance, and welcoming community spaces, JLIC directors help students navigate important life decisions while maintaining their Jewish connections.
Continuing the Good Work
As JLIC expands its programming, directors continue meeting students where they are—offering support without pressure, guidance without judgment, and community without conditions.
The many weddings where JLIC educators participate represent meaningful milestones in their work. Through their thoughtful involvement in campus life, JLIC directors make a positive difference for Jewish students navigating relationships during these formative years.
Reach out to any of our Directors to learn more about JLIC and to support our programming.