In the fall of 2014, I was a freshman at the University of Illinois and started coming to Illini Hillel to become involved in Jewish life on campus. In the fall of 2015, I told Erez Cohen, the Executive Director of Illini Hillel, that I wanted to train for a 5k or 10k. Erez countered, essentially, with "why not more?"

This implied question was not just about running. It was, at its core, representative of Illini Hillel. Why stop at good when you can be great? Why stop at great when you can be excellent?

In the spring, I ran a half marathon with Erez, his original suggestion for me, and then some. I even completed a 5k the night right before, doing what the Illinois Marathon calls a Half I-Challenge. This year, however, why not more?

This year, I'll be completing the FULL I-Challenge. That's right, a 5k Friday night, and a full marathon Saturday morning. 3.1 miles, sleep, 26.2 miles.

By supporting my run, you are not only encouraging me throughout my training. You are also supporting programs and initiatives that help inspire and empower students to become involved in Jewish life, embrace Jewish values, and further the prosperous future of the Jewish People. Thank you!