As Vanderbilt Hillel looks forward to an exciting semester, it is preparing for several staffing changes. Hillel’s longtime and dedicated Assistant Director Brian Small and Director of Operations Debby Wiston are both leaving to pursue new opportunities.  Executive Director Ari Dubin said, “They have worked tirelessly on behalf of our students and community for years, and we are deeply grateful to each of them for all they have done to make us the success we are today.” 

Brian Small moved to Nashville with his wife Shannon and their two children in 2017 to join Hillel, and during his time at Vanderbilt he revolutionized many aspects of Hillel’s programs and student outreach.  Dubin said, “Brian successfully created many new ways for students to connect to the Jewish community, most notably starting Hillel’s pre-orientation program for incoming first-year students.”  Brian has accepted a remote position with the Gift of Life as their Jewish Community Engagement Recruitment Manager.  

Since she began working at Hillel in 2013, Debby Wiston’s many roles over the years reflect both the diversity of her talents and her deep commitment to Hillel’s success. In reflecting on Wiston’s time at Hillel, Dubin remarked, “Debby’s leadership and steady hand led us through many campaigns, fundraisers, and student events.  Whether she was leading a student trip to Panama or pulling off an incredible 100th birthday celebration for our namesake Ben Schulman, Debby made it look easy. We are going to miss both Debby and Brian, and we will continue to celebrate them as we move from strength to strength.” 

Hillel’s current Engagement and Social Justice Coordinator, Veronica Grady, is moving into the role of Program Director for Vanderbilt Hillel.  In her new role, Grady will be responsible for implementing Hillel’s programmatic vision and ensuring it maintains its consistent success.  Grady said, “I am thrilled to continue growing with Vanderbilt Hillel in this new role. Our students are truly amazing and inspire me to reach new heights in Jewish programing and engagement.” Hillel has initiated a national search for a Development Director and looks forward to announcing the new hire in the future.