Building a New Era at Mizzou Hillel: Scott Gerstel on Community, Connection, and Campus Life

Image courtesy of Scott Gerstel.

Ten years ago, Scott Gerstel was a freshman at the University of Central Florida studying engineering, wide-eyed, eager, and friendly like so many students stepping onto campus for the first time. In 2016, Gerstel found his way to Central Florida Hillel.

Of anyone I’ve met, Scott most embodies the ethos of Sam Friedman, who worked at Central Florida Hillel when we were students: that Hillel serves as a springboard for both personal and professional growth for Jewish students.

Now, in 2026, Gerstel has become one of the youngest Executive Directors serving a Hillel campus. In just a decade, he transformed from an eager freshman into an experienced leader helping usher in a new era on campus. I spoke with him about leadership, community, and how he brings his mission and vision into this new role.

Image courtesy of Scott Gerstel.

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Scott Gerstel Interview

1. Why should students get involved in college?

College involvement prepares students for the real world. It gives you an opportunity to make mistakes, learn, and grow in an environment where the stakes are lower. Student organizations are like learning labs. They help you figure out how to work with people, lead teams, communicate, and develop professionally before entering the workforce.

College is where you gain practical skills and build relationships that shape your life.

Image courtesy of Scott Gerstel.

2. How has your experience as a student leader translated into your work at Hillel?

The first time I walked into Hillel, it fundamentally changed my life. Because of that experience, I now try to treat every student as if they could have the same transformative moment.

At Hillel, I found community, friendship, and a stronger connection to my Jewish identity. It also led me into other areas of campus involvement, like student government and Greek life. Hillel introduced me to people and opportunities that shaped my college experience.

A lot of what I learned as a student leader translates directly into my work today: relationship building, mentorship, community building, and helping students grow into confident adults.

3. What made Hillel work so well for you personally?

You get out of these experiences what you put in. Hillel created opportunities, but I also invested myself in the community.

What made it special was that it wasn’t just about Jewish programming, but also personal growth. College is a major developmental stage in people’s lives, and Hillel becomes a place where students can learn socially, emotionally, professionally, and spiritually.

For many students, Hillel staff become mentors and trusted people they continue turning to long after graduation. That mentorship piece is incredibly important.

Image courtesy of Scott Gerstel.

4. How do you incorporate Hillel’s mission and vision into your work?

Hillel’s mission is to enrich the lives of Jewish students so they can enrich the Jewish people and the world. I try to do that by meeting students where they are, both in their Jewish and personal journeys.

College is a bridge between adolescence and adulthood. Students are figuring out who they are socially, professionally, and personally during this time. Hillel has the opportunity to support them through that process.

Sometimes that support looks religious or cultural, and sometimes it’s simply mentorship, guidance, or helping someone find community and confidence.

5. What advice would you give to students in high school or college?

College should be both meaningful and enjoyable. Embrace opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun.

After college, it becomes much harder to find community organically. In college, you’re surrounded by people your age who are all trying to meet friends and discover themselves. That environment is unique and temporary.

Take advantage of opportunities. Build relationships, get involved, meet people, and say yes to experiences. Friendships and connections you make in college can direct your life trajectory.

Don’t isolate yourself. Go live your life. And if Hillel can be part of that experience, that’s something really special.

Image courtesy of Scott Gerstel.

6. What’s next for you?

I’m excited to begin this upcoming chapter as Executive Director of Mizzou Hillel. Right now, my priority is meeting as many students and community members as possible.

I want to meet people, learn what students need, and help build a welcoming environment where everyone feels connected.

If you're involved in Jewish life or enjoy connecting with others, let’s grab coffee. I’d love to meet you.