After demolishing its previous building in April, Oklahoma Hillels began the second phase of construction for a new OU Hillel center on Sunday.
Following land prep, phase two will consist of installing utilities, pouring foundations and constructing the building’s exterior. Oklahoma Hillels began fundraising for the project over two years ago, having since raised more than $5 million toward its $7.3 million goal.
The previous OU Hillel building, which was in operation since 1952, closed in 2023 after being deemed unsafe. Kasi Shelton, Oklahoma Hillels executive director, attributed its closure mainly to the presence of mold and asbestos from water leaks.
“We didn’t have heat or air (conditioning), and there was black water coming into the building,” Shelton said. “There were minor repairs, but it got to a point where it wasn’t safe.”
After deeming the building inoperable, Shelton said there was no question of whether to rebuild.
“We’d been on campus since 1943, and suddenly we weren’t,” Shelton said. “It was important for us to continue the support of Jewish students on campus while building student leaders and community.”
After researching and touring Hillels across the country, Shelton said she modeled the OU Hillel building after examples of multifunctional spaces and programming.
Construction and rubble from OU Hillel's building demolition.
Shelton said the Hillel building will serve as a communal space for the Jewish population of Norman. While offering religious services and education, it will also be a place to study, order coffee and interact with the Jewish community.
“I think it's really important that we maintain these spaces,” Shelton said. “It’s ensuring that there is a safe space for (Jewish people) to grow and connect, whether it's with mentors, job placement or normal things.”
Shelton said the reconstructed Hillel building will act as a hub of Jewish life and learning for OU students, and the organization takes pride in guiding students to opportunity and connections within the Jewish community.
Much focus was directed towards creating a multifunctional space, Shelton said. The center will feature a large multi-purpose hall, food and coffee bar with student lounges and a courtyard.
The new building will allow for easy upgrades, while also lessening its environmental impact, incorporating solar and geothermal power into use.
“It’s not something that uses a lot of energy,” Shelton said. “A lot of the importance was put on the inside, and it will leave less of a carbon footprint than the old monstrosity.”
According to Shelton, the remaining $1.7 million of funding must be pledged by the time the second phase is completed in February.
The OU Hillel building is expected to be ready for fall 2025.
This story was edited by Ismael Lele, Anusha Fathepure and Ana Barboza. Avery Avery copy edited this story.
