Jeff Linkon Named Indiana University Hillel's New Executive Director

Jeff Linkon Named Indiana University Hillel's New Executive Director

BLOOMINGTON, IN.- The Hillel Foundation at Indiana University is excited to announce Jeff Linkon as the new Executive Director. Jeff is a Hoosier in the truest sense. He was born and raised in Indianapolis. He attended Indiana University, graduating with a Near Eastern Languages and Culture and a Certificate in Jewish Studies. Serving the Greater Indianapolis community for over three decades as an entrepreneur, volunteer, and Jewish Communal Professional, Jeff's dedication to success is evident. Bringing his experience in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors, leading startups, creating departments and programs, and building critical community-wide initiatives is a foundational benefit for IU Hillel and its mission. Jeff has overseen operations at the Jewish Federation of Greater Indianapolis since 2018, most recently as the Chief Community Operations Officer. During his time at the Federation, Jeff was instrumental in creating Safe Indiana – the Federation's safety and security initiative that supports 60+ Jewish community organizations across Indiana.

"In many ways, this is truly a homecoming. While attending IU, Hillel was where I found my people, many of whom remain my closest friends," said Jeff. "At Hillel, I found my voice, and the opportunities that Hillel provided laid the foundation for my leadership journey within the Jewish community. In this time of surging antisemitism on campuses across the U.S., I am humbled by the trust of the Board of Governors, professional staff, and student leadership. I look forward to working with them and other partners to meet the needs of our students and continue my work in building a vibrant Jewish community, continuing the tradition of excellence at IU Hillel and Indiana University"

"Jeff is a phenomenal addition to IU Hillel," said Michael Mervis, Board President.  "His extensive experience, creativity, and tenacity in problem-solving, as well as his ability to inspire, are the perfect skill sets to power IU Hillel into our next chapter."

Adam Lehman, President and CEO of Hillel International, said, “Jeff's journey from involved Jewish student at Indiana University to IU Hillel's Executive Director is a testament to the transformative power of Hillel. We all look forward to supporting his efforts to take IU Hillel to a new level of success and impact in shaping the next generation of Jewish leaders.”
Hillel at Indiana University wishes to extend our heartfelt thanks to Lawrence Bolotin, Chair of the Search Committee, for his leadership and guidance throughout the hiring process.

We also want to express our deep appreciation to Rabbi Sue Silberberg for her decades-long commitment and service to the organization and all the hundreds of students she has connected with. Her hard work and dedication to Hillel at Indiana University have laid a strong foundation, and we wish her all the best in her future endeavors.