Campus rabbi position filled for Syracuse Hillel with Rabbi Natan Levy; also assigned role of Jewish chaplain at Hendricks Chapel.
New Campus Rabbi at Syracuse University Brings Expertise in Environmental Theology and Interfaith Dialogue
Rabbi Natan Levy, a scholar and interfaith bridge-builder, has been appointed as the new campus rabbi at Syracuse University Hillel and Jewish chaplain at Hendricks Chapel. Rabbi Levy, who hails from California, brings a diverse background of academic scholarship and extensive practical interfaith experience to the role.
Rabbi Levy holds a Ph.D. in environmental theology from the University of Bristol, an M.A. in Jewish Studies from King’s College, and a B.A. in Religious Studies from Pomona College. His academic work links faith with ecological responsibility, including publications like “Genesis 1-11, the Rise of Agriculture and the Earliest States” and “Sharing Eden: Green Teachings from Jews, Christians and Muslims.”
Before his appointment at Syracuse University, Rabbi Levy served as a trusted advisor to the late Chief Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, gaining significant experience in Jewish thought and interfaith matters. He also held leadership roles fostering interfaith dialogue, notably as head of operations for the Faiths Forum in London and leading interfaith outreach for the Board of Deputies of British Jews. These roles underscore his active engagement in promoting religious harmony and building bridges between diverse faith communities.
Jillian Juni, executive director of Syracuse Hillel, is thrilled to welcome Rabbi Levy. She expressed her excitement, saying, "We are thrilled to have Rabbi Levy join our team. His vast experience in interfaith work and environmental theology will greatly benefit our students and the Syracuse community."
Rabbi Levy has been awarded several fellowships and scholarships for his work in interfaith dialogue and environmental activism, including the Gingko Interfaith Fellowship, KAICIID Interreligious Dialogue Fellowship, McCaul Scholarship, Hass/Koshland Memorial Award, and JNF Scholarship for Environmental Activities.
Rabbi Levy is expected to strengthen Syracuse Hillel's offerings and support efforts in building robust Jewish life, deepening community partnerships, and strengthening interfaith work. He has noted the profound impact of Hendricks Chapel's interfaith work and looks forward to growing and learning from his colleagues at Syracuse University. Rabbi Levy is also excited to engage with students and partake in thoughtful conversations at Syracuse University.
With Rabbi Levy's appointment, Syracuse University Hillel and Hendricks Chapel continue their commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive community that values interfaith dialogue and understanding.
[1] Rabbi Natan Levy's academic publications and interfaith work can be found at: [link to Rabbi Natan Levy's academic profile or website] [2] More information about Syracuse University Hillel can be found at: [link to Syracuse University Hillel's website] [3] More information about Hendricks Chapel can be found at: [link to Hendricks Chapel's website]
- Rabbi Natan Levy's focus on connecting faith with personal growth and environmental responsibility makes him an ideal figure for education and self-development within the Syracuse University community.
- With Rabbi Levy's emphasis on interfaith dialogue and deepening community partnerships, he will likely contribute significantly to the personal growth and self-development opportunities available at Syracuse University.
