Jessica Rykus, Associate Director

Born and raised in sunny South Florida, I took a detour to the desert for a decade, starting as a proud Sun Devil on the Arizona State University dance team before finishing my degree at UCF (Go Knights!). After returning home, I began my career in education before finding my passion in the nonprofit world, where I spent seven meaningful years with the Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County.

Joining Hillel of Broward and Palm Beach as Associate Director feels like the natural next step in my journey—where Jewish values, community, and student empowerment come together. I’m deeply committed to cultivating a vibrant Jewish campus life where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to explore their identity and leadership with purpose and joy. Whether it’s a thought-provoking conversation or a quick candy jar run, my door (and heart) are always open.

When I’m not at Hillel, you’ll find me chasing after my two-year-old son Bennett, dancing to anything with a beat, soaking in beach days, traveling with loved ones, and proudly cheering on our back-to-back Stanley Cup champs—the Florida Panthers!