Richard Dreyfuss connects with community in visits to MSU, Hillel

By Marilyn King | Originally Published: 02/04/08 11:20pm |Modified: 02/04/08 11:21pm | No comments

The importance of religion and politics, civic engagement and reveling in the joys of being an American were among some of the topics actor Richard Dreyfuss discussed at a campus visit Monday.

Dreyfuss, who has acted in widely known films such as “Jaws” and “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” spoke at Wharton Center as part of the World View Lecture Series, which works with several colleges to host guest speakers on college campuses.

Dreyfuss was selected after careful consideration, said Kent Love, director of communications for Wharton Center.

“He’s very involved in a lot of political things, and he wants to stress the importance of getting involved,” Love said. Students were intrigued by the event after following Dreyfuss’ career and being a fan of his work.

Kale Davidoff, who will attend MSU this fall, listened to the lecture and said he got a lot out of it.

“I’m into film and a lot of his movies are my favorite,” Davidoff said. “He’s Jewish, I’m Jewish, and he’s a really good speaker. He feels really strongly about what he’s saying.”

Dreyfuss’ lecture focused on the importance of community involvement and politics, as well as what he learned from being an actor.

“I think people’s life experiences are something one can learn from,” Dreyfuss said.

Dreyfuss spoke not only of weighty issues but also about what he learned from his various roles, particularly “Mr. Holland’s Opus.”

“Mr. Holland I think will outlive me,” Dreyfuss said in his speech. “I’m thrilled that I played (him). All of us, the cast and crew, bonded like family in a way I had never known.”

After the lecture, Dreyfuss went to Hillel Jewish Student Center, 360 Charles St., for a casual dessert reception to meet students.

“Dreyfuss is very proud to be Jewish, and this is a wonderful opportunity to talk to students and a cool opportunity for us,” said Cindy Hughey, executive director of Hillel.

Hughey said she appreciated Dreyfuss’ coming to Hillel to represent the importance of the Jewish community.

“He believes in the philosophies of Hillel and what we do,” Hughey said.

Jessica Katz, Hillel’s statewide campus engagement fellow, said she was excited to have Dreyfuss come to Hillel not only because of his beliefs, but also because he is an experienced actor.

“It’s neat because he’s been in a lot of great movies,” said Katz, who works with Hillel to set up programs within MSU and with other schools. Students left Hillel feeling pleased with their “close encounter” with Dreyfuss.

“He was so nice and very down to earth,” law student Sara Phillips said. “As soon as I found out he was coming, I got really excited.”