Over the 20 years of CSU Hillel, there have been many special moments. From starting CSU’s Holocaust Awareness Week program to increasing the presence of Jewish students at CSU and within Fort Collins. There have been so many amazing students that have come through the Hillel house, and some have even found the love their life! This is the story of husband and wife, Drew and Jessica Lyneis.
During their freshman year at CSU, Jessica saw a flyer advertising Rosh Hashanah. Jessica decided to go partially because she felt compelled thinking it would make her parents back home in the Chicago suburbs proud of her. Drew, from Denver, was already inside the Hillel house when Jessica walked in – and good thing he was, because it was love at first sight.
“Right as I walked into Hillel, I saw Drew and it was love at first sight,” said Jessica. “He was charming, handsome, smart and so genuine, I had no idea walking into Hillel that day would change the rest of my life!” she added.
The CSU Hillel director at the time was Josh Samet. Josh, Jessica, and Drew built a strong bond together through their almost 9 years friendship that culminated in Josh marrying the couple on their wedding day last August (2017).
“Josh has been an incredible friend and mentor throughout my and Drew’s relationship,” said Jessica. “(Josh) was there the day we met at Hillel and lead us on our birthright trip together. “I am very proud to say I am a CSU Hillel Alumni and I thank you for all that you do for Colorado State University and the Fort Collins community.”
Colorado State Hillel is proud to be a “home away from home” for Jewish students on campus. If you have a beautiful story about CSU Hillel you want to share, let us know! Help us create the Jewish leaders of tomorrow. We are only able to serve our students thanks to supporters like you. 100% of our funding comes from parents, alumni and community members. Keep up with all the latest news at CSU Hillel on our blog and Facebook page and donate to our 20th Anniversary Crowd-fundraiser for 24-hours only and all gifts will be tripled! Share this and all our stories with friends and family!
My name is David Kravitz. I’m a senior journalism major and this semester I’m writing stories for Hillel. I love to tell stories and write. I’m originally from Washington state. I enjoy cooking, writing, laughing with friends and enjoy dogs more than people.