The University of Arizona Hillel has appointed a new executive director, Shoshi Lipschultz, who will start in July.
Eric Natter, president of the UA Hillel board of directors, announced the appointment last month.
An Arizona native and University of Arizona alum, Lipschultz returns to Tucson with more than 20 years of experience in Jewish communal leadership. Her professional background includes impactful leadership at York University in Toronto, where she was Hillel’s senior campus director, as well as extensive work in Jewish education, camping, and student engagement. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a strong ability to cultivate vibrant, inclusive communities grounded in meaningful Jewish life, Natter says.
“Shoshi brings a clear vision for strengthening student engagement and deepening connections across our campus community. Her leadership reflects a thoughtful commitment to fostering belonging, purpose, and enduring Jewish identity among students,” Natter says, adding that Lipschultz and her 100-pound hound, Loki, are especially excited to trade snow shovels for sunny Tucson trail walks.
“Returning to UA Hillel as its new Executive Director feels like coming home in the most meaningful way. This is the place that shaped me — not just as a student, but as a Jewish leader. It’s where I found my voice, built lasting relationships, and began a journey that has guided my path ever since,” says Lipschultz, who found an old copy of The Daily Wildcat while packing for the move.
“There I was on the cover, helping lead a memorial for Yitzhak Rabin on the first anniversary of his assassination. That moment reminded me how deeply Hillel shaped my sense of identity and responsibility,” she says, adding that her story “is proof that the work we do on campus lasts a lifetime.”
Eager to begin her new role at UA Hillel, Lipshultz says, “There is something truly special about this campus and its students — the warmth, the energy, and the deep sense of community. I’m looking forward to building meaningful relationships, creating spaces where students feel truly seen and connected, and empowering each student to find their own personal and joyful path into Jewish life and leadership.”
Natter expressed gratitude to Interim Executive Director Eddie Lange, whose contributions over the past 16 months “have been instrumental in sustaining and strengthening our community.”
It was a privilege to serve that community, Lange says. “What makes U of A Hillel so special is its people — students, staff, families, and supporters who care deeply about Jewish life on this campus. Shoshi brings extraordinary experience, heart, and vision, and I could not be more excited for what lies ahead under her leadership.”
For more information, visit uahillel.org.
