To the editor:

I was thrilled to read the article announcing that Bernie Marcus will be Emory’s commencement speaker this year, I was especially glad to see that the Wheel acknowledged the Marcus Foundation’s gift to build the Marcus Hillel Center at Emory. Thanks to Mr. Marcus’ vision and philanthropic investment, Emory Hillel is building a world-class facility to serve as a vibrant hub of Jewish life on campus for Emory Hillels and for the Hillel’s of the Georgia network of campus programs.

The Marcus Hillel Center will be a home away from home for Jewish students and a place where everyone is welcome to explore Jewish arts, culture, spirituality and community. Emory is the last university in its class to have such a facility, and the wait is nearly over.

The Billi and Bernie Marcus Foundation’s lead gift of $3 million to build the Marcus Hillel Center at Emory is a challenge grant. People from across the country have been answering the call, and we are within $300,000 of reaching our goal. I encourage your readers to join the campaign and help meet Mr. Marcus’ challenge.

We would also like to take this chance to congratulate Mr. Marcus on receiving his honorary degree on the Quad just days after he puts a shovel into the ground to create another jewel in the crown of Emory and the broader Atlanta community. All are welcome to attend the groundbreaking ceremony on May 4 at 3 p.m. at the site of the future Marcus Hillel Center, at the top of Gatewood Road.

Michael Rabkin, Emory Hillel Director