he ommentator T The Independent C Student Newspaper of University

VOL. LXXXVII TUESDAY, AUGUST 31, 2021 ISSUE NO. 1 Students Return to Campus With Nearly No COVID-Restrictions

By Seffi Jonas

This article was published online on August 29.

Yeshiva University undergraduates re- turned to campus with nearly no COVID- restrictions on Wednesday, Aug. 25, when the fall semester began. Student council leaders and the Office of Student Life (OSL) organized the back-to-school programming. Last semester, about 550 students lived on campus. Those students were required to wear masks and receive a negative PCR test twice weekly. For the 2021-22 academic year, students only needed proof of vac- cination and a negative PCR test to return to campus, without further COVID testing. Unvaccinated students who were granted exception from the vaccine requirement have stricter guidelines. Superstorm Henri, which made landfall on Sunday, Aug. 22, delayed moving into the dorms for some of the student body. Despite the storm, orientation commenced that same Sunday evening. OSL provided students with several op- portunities to do chessed during the first week back on campus. Students pack- aged kosher Rosh Hashanah packages for American military service members. During Continued on Page 3 Students at Beren Campus

YU Faculty Council Calls for Mandatory Indoor Judge Denies Masking as Fall Semester Begins Plaintiffs’

mandate be set for all indoor interactions,” Three days later, on Friday, Aug. 27, Request By Sruli Fruchter the resolution said, “providing our students Associate Dean of Students Joe Bednarsh and faculty the same protection that is pro- wrote in an email that three students — one Requiring YU In an emergency meeting on Tuesday vided for the vast majority of students and from Beren and two from Wilf— tested posi- night, Aug. 24, the Faculty Council — a rep- faculty in the NYC area.” tive for COVID-19; students and professors to Allow LGBTQ resentative body of YU’s faculty to include It added that the council will “support in their classes were specifically notified. He them in forming university-wide, academic any faculty member who requires students also said that exposed individuals who are Club While Case policies — passed a resolution by a 12-2 to wear masks in their classes.” fully vaccinated and remain asymptomatic vote calling for YU to mandate masks in all Before the council meeting on Tuesday, do not need to take any action. Continues in “indoor interactions,” even for vaccinated Vice Provost for Student Affairs Chaim The Faculty Council’s emergency meet- individuals. Nissel emailed students, faculty and staff ing came after YU formally told professors of about YU’s policy, signed by Provost and its current policy the day prior. On Monday Court “Why not do everything Vice President of Academic Affairs Selma night, Aug. 23, Botman and Dr. Robert van we can for those of us with Botman. “One of the remarkable things Amerongen, YU’s medical director, spoke By Sruli Fruchter younger children or vulnerable about being part of a values-based commu- with faculty about the university’s policy for nity, is that we are respectful and care about the semester, who voiced their support for a This article was published online on August family members, or faculty one another and the health and wellbeing complete masking requirement, according 19. and students who might be of the entire community,” the email began. to professors who attended the meeting. “We understand that the new Delta variant Following this, faculty members reached Judge Lynn Kotler of the New York County immunocompromised?.” is of concern for everyone, and we are work- out to Professors Abraham Ravid and David Supreme Court denied the Pride Alliance and ___ ing closely with our Medical Director and Cwitich — both chairs of the Faculty Council the other plaintiffs’ request for a preliminary Prof. David Lavinsky following guidance from New York State — who subsequently contacted the admin- injunction on Wednesday, Aug. 18, allowing and in order to navigate the istration but did not hear back by Tuesday. Yeshiva University to deny an official LGBTQ The resolution, which acts as a rec- uncertainty that it presents.” “There was no immediate response and club from forming on campus while the dis- ommendation to YU and is not binding, YU will not mandate masks, the email time was running out,” Ravid told The crimination case continues in court. thanked the university for requiring vaccina- clarified, but it also indicated that students Commentator. “At noon on Tuesday, with In April 2021, the Alliance, three former tions for all students and faculty to return are expected to comply with faculty requests less than 24 hours left [until classes began], students and a current anonymous student to campus but indicated that this was not to wear masks in class, though they are we decided to call a meeting of the council sued YU for discrimination under New York enough. “We request that in accordance with not required to do so. It concluded that YU on short notice.” City Human Rights Law (NYCHRL) for its the latest CDC guidelines and following our “will continue to evaluate this policy based As of July 27, the Center for Disease continued refusal to allow an LGBTQ club for own Cardozo [School of Law] and Ferkauf on infection rates, as well as local and state [Graduate School of ], a mask guidance, and may revisit it as necessary.” Continued on Page 4 Continued on Page 4

NEWS | 5 FEATURES | 14 OPINIONS | 17 BUSINESS | 23

YU Defends LGBTQ Club Decision Alan Broder and the Hybrid Classroom Rape and Rape on the YU campus Shopping in the Workplace 2 From the Editor's Desk Tuesday, August 31, 2021

The Commentator 2021-2022 From the Editor's Desk Editor-in-Chief SRULI FRUCHTER

News Senior Editor Junior Editor JARED SCHARF SHLOMIT EBBIN A Year of Possibility Features Senior Editor Junior Editor DANIEL MELOOL GILAD MENASHE

Opinions determine the rules of eti- issues happening in real time Senior Editor Junior Editor NAFTALI SHAVELSON ARIEL KAHAN By Sruli Fruchter quette. This year is a year of affecting real people. When possibility, but to make the it comes to seeking change The future is like someone most of it, we need to put in in these areas, it’s not easy. sitting at a kitchen table sur- the work. Here, change begins with rounded by empty seats, un- difficult conversations and Business assigned place settings and This year communal reckoning, things Senior Editor Junior Editor an open door. Who walks in our community particularly MAX ASH ALIZA LEICHTER is anyone’s guess. Will they is a year of struggles with. As a Jewish dine with Pain or Pleasure? possibility, but journalist recently told me, Will Disappointment come “People always care about and dominate the conver- to make the most airing our dirty laundry, but Senior Layout Editor sation, or can Something they rarely care about the MICAH PAVA Better a word in? There of it, we need to dirty laundry itself.” are no guarantees, only put in the work. These struggles are uncertainties. not unique to YU. At The Social Media Manager The unknown is scary, and Commentator, we are cer- DANYA PARKER anything linked to the un- Positive change is not tainly not immune to our known is, by association, also made in a vacuum. It re- own serious failures and er- Website Manager scary. That’s why it’s so easy quires candid reflection and rors. Despite our best efforts RAPHAEL ALCABES to be repelled by the idea of humble accountability, abili- and intentions, I have no change. Change means dif- ties that allow us to see where doubt that there were times Business Managers ferent, and while different we were, where we are and we hurt people, fell short in Senior Manager Junior Manager can mean better, it can also where we want to be. In some our reporting and allowed JONATHAN KATZ JAMES HEISLER mean worse. For many, that’s areas, this process will not our egos to step in front of not a risk worth taking, and be too difficult. Take, for ex- our Jewish values. Even so, they’d rather avoid the kitch- ample, considerations about I can say that we are always Layout Staff en table altogether. But that’s what improvements can be seeking to change — to im- AZRIEL BACHRACH, JULIA POLSTER, a mistake. made in YU’s Shabbos life, prove, develop and grow. ESTHER POLOTSKY AND DVORAH RAHIMZADEH As the world re-emerges campus programming and Every institution, organi- in this post-COVID era, we academic opportunities. zation and society is rife with Staff Writers are faced with a new realm Understandably, practical- its own problems. The im- ELLIE GOFMAN, RIKKI KOLODNY, YONATAN of possibility, and that can be ly everyone would warmly portant distinction, however, KURZ, JONATHAN LEVIN, AKIVA LEVY, WILLIAM daunting. Naturally, there’s embrace those goals, and all is what they are willing to do MOGYOROS, RAPHI SINGER AND YOAV ZOLTY an instinct to try and return that’s left is the plan to follow to change. At YU, we must to the way things were, to through. In contrast, change ask ourselves: What are we “go back to normal.” This in other areas will not come willing to do to change? is especially apropos as we easily. In fact, it may not This year is giving us a gift The Commentator is the student newspaper of begin this year at YU. With come at all, and if it does, it we’ve never had before: pure Yeshiva University. two grades who have never can be drastically damaging. possibility. The kitchen table experienced a COVID-absent These areas are the “con- is set, the guests are arriv- For 87 years, The Commentator has served students and administrators as a communicative conduit; a kinetic vehicle year and another that only troversial” ones, the ones ing and the menu is being disseminating undergraduate social, religious and academic went through one such se- people love to read about but prepared. What do we want beliefs across the student bodies; and a reliable reflection mester, we have, in many don’t want to speak about, to do next? The onus does of Yeshiva student life to the broader Jewish and American ways, a clean slate set before the gossip people adore but not fall on one person; we communities. us. Any precedents for cam- the exposés they abhor. We need collective work, collec- The Commentator staff claims students spanning the diverse pus life, campus culture or all know what falls into these tive support and collective spectrum of backgrounds and beliefs represented at Yeshiva. academics are now the ghost camps: LGBTQ issues, sexual change. Now, we just need of an old historical record, assault in our communities, to be willing to embrace the We are united by our passion for living the ideals of a remnant of what was, not administrative failures, etc. opportunity. Umadda, and a commitment to journalistic excellence. what is. We are now the hosts It’s easy to see these topics Read more at yucommentator.org of YU’s kitchen table — we as abstractions that make for decide who joins us, and we good Facebook posts, but the reality is that these are real Tuesday, August 31, 2021 7 Up 7 Down 3 RETURN TO CAMPUS It's Good to Back Continued from Front Page

Those were the two longest weeks of my life. the Welcome Back Bash and BBQ on Tuesday, 1 Aug. 24, students were invited to swab their cheeks for The Gift of Life marrow registry. Students also cleaned Highbridge Park in Washington Heights. Welcome! On Wednesday, Aug. 25, Beren Campus Penina Bernstein joined a team of 2 Probably the highest rate of FTOCs since 1886. Who are all you people? Beren Campus spiritual leaders — which in- cludes Beren Campus Jacob Bernstein, Associate Dean of Torah Studies and Spiritual Life Shoshana Shechter and Director of NFTs Skyrocket Spiritual Life Mrs. Rachel Ciment — in a panel discussing questions about getting into the Changing the world one jpeg at a time. Perfect for the test bank mesorah. 3 spirit of Elul and starting school. Rebbetzin Bernstein also gave a in the Stern College NCAA Nil Decision Beit Midrash with free Carlos and Gabby’s for students on Thursday, Aug. 26. NCAA players can now profit from their name, image and likeness. Somebody should start selling “The Panel this past Wednesday night was 4 Macs t-shirts, or jpegs or something. an incredible way to start off the year and energize each of our students for all the un- tapped potential that is to come,” shared Torah Activities Council (TAC) President Suzanne In The Heights Rabinovitch. “TAC looks forward to continuing to provide meaningful Torah, Shabbat, and 5 Meat grilling, hydrants busted, blasting through the street ... yes, you’re in the heights. chessed opportunities to our entire student body this year, who’ve waited all too long to come together again and take part in what makes our university so unique.” Brand New Target Free ice cream was distributed to all stu- dents and faculty on both campuses on the 6 181st and Saint Nicholas. Great for 1st dates and burning your allowance. first day of classes. This was cosponsored by OSL, Office of Housing and Residence Life, HR, the Career Center, the Counseling Center, and student council. Big In-Shabbos Student council also provided additional back-to-school activities for students. Student

7 Shabbos is for the boys … and the girls … and I guess everyone? Organization of Yeshiva (SOY) sponsored free cholent for students on Wilf Campus following

the first Thursday Night maariv of the school

year and Stern College for Women Student

Council (SCWSC) sponsored smoothies and

7 coffee for Beren students on Thursday morn- UP by Raphael AlcabesDOWN ing. On Sunday, Aug. 29, students from both 7 campuses were invited to spend a Sunday touring New York City, with stops at Central Park and the zoo. “This week was so fun!” Dalia Levin (SCW ‘25) told The Commentator. “I am making so many new friends and the atmosphere here is so exciting! I hope every week is as great Trolling and full of activities and opportunities as this week has been.” We don’t get summers off. 1 “The sentiment I’ve heard from the stu- dent body has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Yeshiva Student Union President Elazar Abrahams. “Everyone has such hakaras hatov Olympics to YU for working hard to bring things back to mostly normal. I didn’t fully realize how Gold Medal for disappointments goes to … 2 much I missed this place until I was back in the packed shiur room and it felt like my friends and I hadn't skipped a beat.” Campus life commenced as the Delta vari- Dirtbikes ant — a more contagious strain of coronavirus — surges across New York City. On Tuesday, They’re on X Game mode. 3 Aug. 24, Vice Provost for Student Affairs emailed students, faculty and staff about YU’s policy, signed by Provost and Vice President Governer Cuomo of Academic Affairs Selman Botman. “We understand that the new Delta variant Anyone else notice YU took down his posters? Are they stored in a vault with Robert Kraft? is of concern for everyone, and we are working 4 closely with our Medical Director and following guidance from New York State and New York Increased Caf Prices City in order to navigate the uncertainty that it presents,” the email said. While YU’s policy is not changing now, it I just hope I graduate before we’re charged for spicy mayo. told students they should listen to professors’ 5 requests to wear masks in class, although they are not required to do so. Schottenstein Not Opened This Semester It ended, “We will continue to evaluate this policy based on infection rates, as well I guess you can say YU #canceled it. as local and state guidance, and may revisit 6 it as necessary.” Shlomit Ebbin and Sruli Fruchter contributed Summer Weather in to this story. There’s nothing more refreshing than drips from an overhead AC. 7 4 News Tuesday, August 31, 2021 MASK MANDATE Continued from Front Page Control (CDC) recommended that fully vac- cinated individuals should wear masks in public indoor settings with “substantial or high” transmission, which, according to its COVID Data Tracker, applies to the New York County area. Recently, the CDC noted that the vaccine is less effective against the more contagious Delta variant. Various New York City schools, including New York University and , are mandating masks indoors for all stu- dents and staff this fall semester, regardless of vaccination status. Other institutions, such as the City University of New York and Columbia University, are only requiring masks indoors for unvaccinated individuals. Many YU faculty members are scared about the university’s lack of a blanket mask mandate and the potential dangers they and their families face against the Delta variant. Some professors, like Yeshiva College The Faculty Council held an emergency meeting Tuesday night, Aug. 24. YESHIVA UNIVERSITY (YC) Psychology Department Chair Jenny trying to encourage others to make pro- Isaacs, fear returning to campus because for some reason YU believes that vaccina- has also been extremely stressful for those fessors safe. Abigail Lerman (SSSB ‘22), of their vulnerable family members. “I have tion is [enough] protection, even though who don't have the protections of tenure the Sy Student an unvaccinated small child and medically shows it’s clearly not so. Especially and are worried about asking students to do Council president for Beren Campus, told vulnerable parents,” she said. “I cannot ac- for educators who got their vaccine relatively something that has — unfortunately — been The Commentator, “In​​ alignment with our cess my office without using an elevator and early … No one has to choose between their politicized.” Torah values, “if a professor asks students can’t utilize them if anyone is not wearing a livelihood and their (or [their] loved ones’) As a result, many professors — such to wear a mask, I would urge everyone to be mask. I am offended that we are not follow- health.” as those in the Chemistry and English a mensch and comply with their professor’s ing the current CDC guidelines for indoor YC English Prof. David Lavinsky agreed. Departments — are asking students to request, even if there is not an official mask masking, especially as a scientist. This is a “Why not require a proven layer of protec- wear their masks in class, and according to mandate.” grave mistake.” tion, at a very small cost, that will ensure some professors, students are complying. Other students disagree with this ap- Isaacs added, “I am only teaching live we can remain in-person for the rest of “The students in my classes have all been proach. “The university mandated a contro- because I fear losing my job if I don’t.” the term?” he asked. “Why not do every- cooperative,” Mesch said. “I know of some versial vaccine in order to return to normal One professor from the Stern College for thing we can for those of us with younger faculty who have had some pushback, but life, but with professors requiring masks Women (SCW) English Department, who children or vulnerable family members, by and large the students have been kind in their classes it takes us two steps back,” asked to remain anonymous to protect her or faculty and students who might be and respectful.” a YC student said under the condition of students’ identities, told The Commentator immunocompromised?” Still, some professors are upset that YU anonymity. “If a professor or student is un- on Friday that one of her students recently Prof. Rachel Mesch, chair of the YC is putting them in this position at all. “The comfortable, then they have every right to tested positive. “I have arranged to be tested English Department, felt similarly. “It's absence of a mask mandate for indoor set- put on a mask, but forcing other people to on Monday,” she said. “In the meantime, I been an incredibly stressful way for faculty tings also means that the burden of creating wear masks based on their discomfort is just have to figure out how to limit exposure to to go into the new semester — especially safe campus spaces falls on individual fac- not how the real world works.” my son, who is autoimmune compromised.” those who have unvaccinated children or ulty, students, and staff members,” Lavinsky Another professor, who spoke under grandchildren, are immunocompromised, or commented. the condition of anonymity, questioned live with someone who is,” she explained. “It From the side of students, some are YU’s rationale. “It’s tricky,” they said, “as

LGBTQ CLUB Continued from Front Page students. The same day, plaintiffs asked the will win their case. Kotler noted that, at this “not maintain the status quo,” which she discussion of material facts, without a full court for a temporary, expedited decision — time, it is unclear whether YU is bound by indicates is needed for an injunction to be trial. Oral arguments will be held virtually known as a preliminary injunction — to have NYCHRL, as the plaintiffs argue. YU con- granted. “Plaintiffs allege that Yeshiva’s re- on Oct. 19 via Microsoft Teams. YU recognize the club for Fall 2021 until the tends that it is exempted from those laws fusal to formally recognize an LGBTQ orga- “We are pleased with the ruling and the court comes to a complete, final ruling in the because it says it is a “religious corporation nization has been ongoing for a decade,” she Court’s recognition of Yeshiva’s ‘proud and case at a later time. incorporated under the law” and explained. “The relief plaintiffs seek would rich Jewish heritage,’” the university said Kotler wrote in her decision on this mo- not a place of public accommodation. “If change the status quo.” in a statement. “We look forward to the ad- tion that the plaintiffs failed to meet the that is the case,” Kotler said, “then plaintiffs Previously, the defense asked the court ditional briefing in the coming weeks and to “heavy burden” for a preliminary injunction do not have a claim under NYCHRL against to dismiss the case on the grounds that YU the oral argument in October.” to be granted. Yeshiva for failure to officially recognize YU is not bound by NYCHRL, among other rea- As of publication, Katherine Rosenfeld, One factor necessary for the preliminary Pride Alliance.” sons. Kotler instead decided to move for a who is representing the plaintiffs, did not injunction to have been granted is that the Kotler also said that compelling YU to summary judgment which is a final decision immediately respond to The Commentator’s plaintiffs must show a likelihood that they permit the club through this motion would by the court, based strictly on the law without request for comment.

News Briefs Tenzer Gardens and Nagel's Bagels Reopen, RIETS Master’s Program Delayed

Welcome Back BBQ on Aug. 24. was supposed to begin for the first time in Fall 2021, will not By Jared Scharf Nagel’s Bagels first closed when the COVID-19 pandemic be taking place this year, according to students who were began in March 2020. The university did not respond to enrolled in the program. Tenzer Gardens and Nagel’s Bagels Reopen inquiries as to why the location was closed for the previous RIETS did not respond to comment on why the program semesters. Nagel’s Bagels resides adjacent to the Glueck was canceled and if it will be reinstated at a later point. Tenzer Gardens and Nagel’s Bagels, both of which are Beis Medrash and the Heights Lounge. According to Yeshiva Academic Institutional Repository located on Wilf Campus, reopened for the Fall 2021 semes- (YAIR), 10-15 students applied to the Chaver program — a ter. Tenzer Gardens is an area that was previously used for RIETS MHL Degree in full-time or part-time learning program designed for Yeshiva barbecues, sports games and other student events. Nagel’s Postponed University graduates to spend an additional year in Yeshiva Bagels is an eatery located in Gleuck Center for Jewish study. before graduate school or working — or MHL program and In early 2019, Tenzer Gardens first closed for reconstruc- The Masters in Hebrew Letters (MHL) Program under all are currently enrolled in the former as of now. tion purposes. It was utilized for the first time since for the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS), which Tuesday, August 31, 2021 News 5 YU Defends Decision to Reject LGBTQ Club and Receive Government Funding in New Court Documents

emphasis on “Torah values” and presence of the plaintiffs, from her interview with The “The Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological By Sruli Fruchter and Daniel religious services on undergraduate cam- Forward. YU explained that the plaintiffs Seminary Association,” it was a sectarian Melool puses, YU tried to demonstrate the “religious “hope that ‘an establishment of a club re- institution that did not receive government character” of its undergraduate programs in ally could change things’ at [YU], including funding. Nearly 50 years later in 1945, YU This article was published online on June 3. its argument to the court. Any government changing the ‘people who are against the officially changed its corporate name to involvement in the university’s decision with movement in the student body.’” “Yeshiva University,” still remaining a sec- Yeshiva University is defending its de- this club, YU says, would be an infringement YU also believes that the plaintiffs’ suit is tarian institution. In 1970, however, YU cision to refuse official club status to the separated from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Pride Alliance — an unofficial, undergradu- Any government involvement in the university’s decision with Theological Seminary, which still remained ate LGBTQ club — while retaining its non- a sectarian institution, and amended its sectarian status, which allows it to receive this club, YU says, would be an infringement on their right to charter to become nonsectarian in order to government funding, in new court docu- receive government funds. ments filed Friday, May 28. freedom of and would be "unconstitutional." “Yeshiva University cares deeply for and Back in April, the Pride Alliance, several welcomes all of our students including our YU alumni and an anonymous student sued LGBTQ students,” YU said in a statement YU, President and Vice Provost on its right to freedom of religion and would misguided because they “cannot claim any sent to The Commentator. “We continue to for Student Affairs Chaim Nissel for dis- be “unconstitutional.” legal injury” due to the club’s denial, reason- be engaged in a productive dialogue with crimination under New York City Human YU explained that it is “wholly committed ing that there “cannot be irreparable harm our , faculty and students on how we Rights Law (NYCHRL) for rejecting the Pride and guided by Halacha and Torah values,” when Plaintiffs do not even have a claim to apply our Torah values to create an inclusive Alliance as an official student club. They which is why it rejected other student clubs vindicate.” It also disputed that the alumni undergraduate campus environment.” argued that, as a nonsectarian institution, in the past, such as a Jewish AEPi fraternity and student experienced any “irreparable The university’s statement concluded, YU is bound by NYCHRL and must approve and a gambling club, because they appeared harm” to begin with. “Ultimately, however, the central ques- the club or lose their funding. not “consistent with Torah values.” After For their defense, YU, Berman and Nissel tion this case presents is who is the ulti- The university is now arguing that an conferring with roshei yeshiva about the are being represented by attorneys Brian mate arbiter of how Yeshiva University’s institution’s nonsectarian status is solely Pride Alliance, YU said that it could not give Sher, Samantha Montrose and Kenneth religious values are applied on campus. On determined through its admissions of stu- approval to the club for the same reason. Abeyratne from Kaufman Borgeest & Ryan matters of religious belief the law is clear, dents — meaning that it does not discrimi- Additionally, the university said that because LLP. Sher is awaiting a response from the Yeshiva University should be free to apply nate in admitting students. YU adds that, it allowed LGBTQ events on campus, in ad- court for his request that YU be allowed the the multi-millennial Torah tradition we rep- while not being a “religious corporation,” it dition to introducing LGBTQ-inclusive poli- assistance of attorneys Willaim Haun and resent and hold sacred without government has always functioned as a religious entity, cies in September 2020, the Pride Alliance Eric Baxter of the Becket Fund for Religious interference.” which exempts it from following NYCHRL is not necessary. Liberty — a non-profit, legal and educational Katherine Rosenfeld, who is the lead attor- that prohibits discrimination. “Plaintiffs want [YU] to ‘make a state- institute focused on preserving religious ney for the plaintiffs, told The Commentator Referencing its mission, ment,’” YU said in these new documents, liberties. that she will be filing a response to YU’s quoting Molly Meisels (SCW ‘21), one of When YU was first founded in 1897 as memorandum with the court on June 7.

Avi Feder Takes Over as Wilf Campus Director of University Housing and Residence Life

YU’s affiliate high school, from August 2015 By Seffi Jonas to July 2017. Feder graduated from the Sy Syms School of Business in 2014 and the Avi Feder began his tenure as the new Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary Wilf Campus director of University Housing in 2017. During his time as a YU student, and Residence Life (UHRL) on Aug. 2. Feder served as both a resident advisor (RA) Feder is the fourth Wilf Campus direc- and a head RA. tor since November 2020, when Jonathan “I am excited to be back at Yeshiva as the Schwab left the position. After Schwab’s Director of Residence Life, and particularly departure, Senior Director of the Office of excited to welcome students back to campus Student Life Rabbi Josh Weisberg served very soon!” Feder told The Commentator. as interim director of UHRL until February “I will be focusing my efforts on the Wilf 2021, when Lee Seguin took over for just four Campus while working collaboratively with months. As of publication, the university has the staff from Beren Campus. Working close- not communicated Seguin’s departure but ly with Michael Altaras and our talented notified students of Feder’s appointment in group of RAs and Head RAs, we will continu- an email on Aug. 23. ally enhance and improve the housing and resident life experience for all.” “I am fully confident that YU administrators expressed optimism Avi — along with Assistant regarding Feder’s appointment. “In addi- tion to Avi’s strong background in Housing Director of Housing Michael and his intimate understanding of the YU Altaras — will truly community, he is also a caring, approach- able, and creative leader,” Vice Provost for accomplish great things for Student Affairs Chaim Nissel said. “I am fully resident life this year” confident that Avi — along with Assistant ___ Director of Housing Michael Altaras — will Vice Provost for Student Affairs truly accomplish great things for resident life this year.” Chaim Nissel Head Resident Advisor Mordy Blau Following four years as Yachad’s direc- (YC ‘22) also expressed excitement toward tor of Volunteers and Advisor Engagement, Ferder’s appointment. “Avi truly cares about Feder transitioned to this new role over the the students and about the people that he summer. Previously, he was the director of works with,” he said. “He really pushes Dormitory Life and National Recruitment us [resident advisors] to be our best and at the Marsha Stern Talmudical Academy, we’re excited to see all that he has to offer to Yeshiva.”

Avi Feder took over as director of UHRL on August 2nd. AVI FEDER 6 News Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Joe Bednarsh Assumes New Role of Associate Dean of Students, Greg Fox Promoted to Athletics Director

During Bednarsh’s time as director of amazing for YU’s athletics program” shared Moss told The Commentator, “As there By Shlomit Ebbin and Ellie Gofman Athletics, the women’s athletics program Alon Jakubowitz (SSSB ‘22), a member of will be additional staffing changes within expanded from three to seven teams, a the men’s basketball team. “I’m especially the department within the next few weeks, This article was published online on July 15. full-time sports information director was grateful for how hard they worked to make the exact responsibilities will continue to hired, an assistant director specifically for sure we had a season last year with all the evolve as necessary.” Former Director of Athletics Joe women’s sports was hired and full-time ath- challenges and complications we had to “Contributing to the continued growth Bednarsh began the new role of associate letic trainers were hired for both campuses. deal with. Joe did an amazing job with the and success of Yeshiva University’s athletics dean of students on July 1, playing a larg- Additionally, each of the fitness centers were Athletics Department these past couple of program is an opportunity that incites my er part in the overall student experience. refurbished and updated, and more facilities years and I’m excited to see what Greg has passion for working with student athletes,” Greg Fox, the former associate director of were acquired for Beren students’ varsity in store.” added Moss. “I would like to thank both Greg Athletics, replaced Bednarsh as director, and games and practices. Fox came to YU five years ago as associ- Fox and Joe Bednarsh for the prospect to Carly Moss was promoted from assistant “There are so many caring faculty, staff, ate director of Athletics. Over those years, continue to grow the athletics department Athletics director to the associate position. and administrators with whom I’ve been he was the administrator for eight sports and enhance the student-athlete experience lucky to work over the last 30 years,” said and helped establish the YU Athletics Hall here at YU.” Bednarsh. “I plan to bring that experience, of Fame. “It will be a bittersweet for me not to be "It will be a bittersweet for me institutional knowledge, and drive to work “I’m excited to take on this role,” said at the helm anymore,” Bednarsh wrote in his not to be at the helm anymore, collaboratively with students to make real, Fox. “I’ve learned a great deal in my five email to the student-athletes, “but I could lasting, and meaningful change that will years at YU as Associate Director under Joe not be more confident in a new leadership but I could not be more better the experience of every student.” Bednarsh. I’d like to take this knowledge and team than I am with Greg and Carly.” Bednarsh will continue to work closely use my previous experience in Division I to Fox shared with The Commentator his confident in a new leadership with Vice Provost of Student Affairs Chaim achieve our wide-ranging department goals.” aspirations for the Athletics department. Nissel in his new position. “I have worked Like Fox, Moss also joined YU five years “This is a great time to be a Maccabee and team than I am with Greg and closely with Joe for many years and am ago as assistant Athletics director. In August I would like to see even greater numbers Carly." thrilled that he has agreed to accept the 2017, Moss earned the title of Athletics from our female and male student body ___ role of Associate Dean of Students and to healthcare administrator. She is also cur- participating on teams and experiencing take on these additional responsibilities,” rently the senior woman administrator and all of the positives that come with that,” he Associate Dean of Students Joe Nissel said. the only athletics administrator on Beren said. “Ultimately, we’d like to create a family Bednarsh Some student-athletes expressed their Campus. Moss is now responsible for YU’s atmosphere in which previous, current and gratitude for how the Athletics Department seven women’s varsity sports and oversees future generations of YU athletic alumni On June 23, Bednarsh emailed Yeshiva was run under Bednarsh. “For the two years the recreational and intramural opportuni- know they have a second home here.” University student-athletes to inform them I’ve been in YU, Joe and Greg have been ties for the university’s female students. of this change. The role of associate dean of students is a new position at YU, and the responsibilities include working to enhance communication with students and overall campus experience, as well as overseeing student health and COVID-19 monitoring. Bednarsh will continue to work with de- partments he previously was involved with — such as Athletics, Office of Student Life and University Housing and Residence Life –– and will also begin working with addi- tional departments across campus. Bednarsh occupied the role of director of Athletics at YU since 2006 and has been working at the institution since 1991. He be- gan working as a lifeguard in the Gottesman Pool, and he held every position in the de- partment of Athletics since then. This past year, Bednarsh also worked as a member of the COVID-19 monitoring team. Greg Fox, Joe Bednarsh and Carly Moss (left to right) YESHIVA UNIVERSITY

YU Discontinues Most COVID-19 Protocols for Vaccinated Students, Employees Over the Summer

Regardless of vaccination status, Nissel with our policy.” participating in June Zman. “Now as COVID By Sruli Fruchter noted in his email, YU still requires all stu- According to the message, this “test run” restrictions are being lifted, I realize I only dents and employees returning to campus was done at the behest of the university. As just saw the beginning of what is looking to This article was published online on June “for the first time” to submit a negative PCR of publication, Nissel did not respond to The be an incredible year to come with limudei 22. test in advance. Other updates include the Commentator’s request for confirmation kodesh and chol [regular and holy studies]. Fully vaccinated students and employ- discontinuation of building temperature regarding this. I’m just so excited to really feel what YU will ees who submit proof of vaccination are checks, the daily health self-assessment form “We hope to shortly announce our Visitor be able to offer in the future." no longer required to wear masks or social and prior registration for athletic facilities. Management System will be open for full- “It will be so nice to go back to campus distance on YU’s campuses over the summer, YU’s FAQ page for COVID-19 require- vaccinated alumni to obtain the Alumni ID this fall with a sense of normalcy, assuming emailed Vice Provost for Student Affairs ments includes details about submitting card,” Nissel shared in his email. He also YU continues lifting these restrictions,” said Chaim Nissel on Monday night, June 21. proof of vaccination and other campus pro- said that YU is reviewing its “Travel and Sela Boord (SSSB ‘22). “Even though I am These policy changes do not apply to un- tocol for the fall semester, but it is unclear Guest policies.” going into my senior year, this would be my vaccinated students who must continue dis- if, and in what capacity, those guidelines “In light of these developments, we con- first full semester on campus with no COVID tancing and mask-wearing on campus. The apply for the summer. tinue to expect that we will be able to return restrictions. I am so excited to experience Summer COVID-19 Monitoring Program — Before this year’s June Zman — a month- to full capacity in the Fall for our classes, all that YU has to offer.” which requires on-campus students to test long period for Wilf students to attend residence halls and other campus spaces,” In late April, President Ari Berman twice a week — will also only be in effect for optional shiurim — a WhatsApp message cir- Nissel wrote to students. “As we get closer emailed students that full in-person instruc- unvaccinated students. culated among students that mask-wearing to the Fall semester, we will share with you tion will resume for Fall 2021. He added These developments come as the percent- and social-distancing would be suspended our COVID-19 protocols for the Fall.” that all students and faculty will need to age of fully vaccinated New Yorkers above only for fully vaccinated students on the Students expressed excitement about this be vaccinated before returning to campus, 18-years-old hovers around 60%. On June first floor of the Glueck Beit Midrash. The step in YU’s return to pre-pandemic life. excluding those with “medical and religious 15, New York State Gov. Andrew Cuomo message said that students were required “Since I have come to YU, it’s really been exemptions,” though he did not elaborate announced that COVID-19 restrictions were to submit proof of vaccination, adding that an incredible experience being around the what qualifies as such. lifted as 70% of adults received at least their “Rebbeim and others will be checking peri- guys and just feeling the really warm atmo- first dose of the vaccine. odically to ensure that everyone is complying sphere,” shared Yosef Tropp (YC ‘24), who is Tuesday, August 31, 2021 News 7 YU Partners in Learning Program in Memory of Donny Morris

for Girls, the S. Daniel Abraham Israel By Yonatan Kurz program and Congregation Beth Abraham of Bergenfield, New Jersey also worked to This article was published May 12. launch this program. Morris was learning at Sha’alvim this year, and Congregation Beth Yeshiva University has partnered with Abraham is his family’s local shul. several other organizations to create a three- The first component of the program is the part memorial program in memory of Donny “Self-Improvement Initiative,” which allows Morris (YUHSB ‘20). Morris, who graduated participants to commit to one of several acts from YU’s high school last spring, was one of self-improvement to refine their character. of 45 who passed away in the Lag Baomer These actions included arriving at shul five incident in Meron, Israel on April 30. minutes before davening, refraining from The programs consist of commitments to speech while in the shul’s sanctuary, starting take on acts of self-improvement, complete the daily Chofetz Chaim program, initiating cycles of Tanach, Mishnah and Gemara, greetings with others and “calling a grand- and replicate different segments of Donny’s parent every day.” As of publication, over Torah learning schedule; these three com- 460 people have signed up to take on mitments will lead up to Donny’s sheloshim at least one of these initiatives. — the 30-day period after one’s passing. The second part of the program is the Yeshiva University High School for Boys, siyum, where people can elect to learn a daf Yeshivat Sha’alvim, Naaleh High School Continued on Page 8 “We wanted to do something more/different than the classical learning mishnayos in memory for a sheloshim. We felt that the impact of Donny's petira was felt by the larger community and wanted to do something that anyone could participate in. We also wanted people to consider taking on a / commitment to change something in their lives — after habituating for 30 days — so we came up with the self- improvement initiative.” ___ DONNY MORRIS Z”L MEMORIAL PROGRAM The program consists of three different commitments Rabbi Yosef Kalinsky, Dean for Undergraduate Torah Studies. to replicate the life of Torah that Donny encapsulated.

Senior Class Nominates Professors and Adjuncts of the Year

and SSSB, respectively, an award that the exciting classes during the past semesters.” Professor Broder is a clinical profes- By Ariel Kahan university began giving to part-time profes- The Professor of the Year awards are sor and chair of the Computer sors in 2018. SCW does not have this award. endowed by Dr. William Silber, who gradu- Department at SCW. Broder has been work- This article was published online on June 3. All of the awards are decided by under- ated from YC in 1963, and his wife Lillian ing at Yeshiva University since 2013 and was graduate seniors in annual online votes Silber. The awards also provide an hono- selected for the Faculty Award for Yeshiva University awarded the Lillian F. that are administered by YU’s Office of rarium of $1,800 to each awarded faculty Exceptional Educators in 2017. “It is a and William L. Silber Professor of the Year Institutional Research & Assessment in member. great honor to receive this award,” Broder Award to four professors across its three the spring semester, which took place this Professor Catrina began teaching at YU commented,“and it is a true privilege to teach undergraduate schools, Yeshiva College (YC), year on April 19. Results of the senior un- in 2019 in YC’s Department of Chemistry such awesomely talented students.” Stern College for Women (SCW) and Sy Syms dergraduate vote were announced on May and Biochemistry. When asked how she A clinical associate professor of School of Business (SSSB). This year’s award 3 for SSSB at the SSSB senior dinner, and felt about receiving the honor, Catrina said, Management on the Beren Campus, Finkel recipients were Professors Dr. Irina Catrina on May 6 and 10 via a Zoom awards session “This is not my achievement alone. First and teaches Principles of Strategy and Start- for YC, Alan Broder for SCW and Mark Finkel for YC and SCW, respectively. foremost, the students are the ones who Up Strategy. Finkel has been teaching at and Yitzchak Rosenthal for SSSB for women According to an email about the vote motivate me to continuously improve as YU since 2017 and was also grateful about and men, respectively. sent to YC students by Associate for Student a teacher, and second, I receive amazing receiving the award. “I am truly humbled Adjunct Professors Akiva Rube and Rabbi Affairs Dean Fred Sugarman, one of the support, help and guidance from everyone to have been given this honor,” he said. “I Dovid Bashevkin were nominated for the main purposes of the award is to “recognize in the YU Department of Chemistry and am indebted to all the smart and talented Adjunct Professor of the Year Award for YC the faculty who have provided the most Biochemistry.” students I have been able to teach. Their positive midot and inquiring minds propel me to try to be a better teacher.” Professor Finkel’s co-recipient from SSSB, Professor Rosenthal, teaches on the Wilf Campus and is a clinical associate pro- fessor of Information and Decision Systems; he has been teaching in SSSB since 2002. Rosenthal said, “The past year or two has been challenging in different ways for a lot of people, myself included. It was nice to be recognized by the students more, but the best feeling I get is when I hear back from students who have succeeded in their jobs and careers after graduation.” Professor Rube graduated from YC in 2018 and began giving lab sessions at YC in the spring of 2019. Rabbi Bashevkin, a YU graduate who received semikha from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary, began teaching at YU in 2019 and now teach- es public policy, religious crisis and rabbinic thought. THE COMMENTATOR/YESHIVA UNIVERSITY (Left to right) Professors Catrina, Finkel, Broder and Rosenthal 8 News Tuesday, August 31, 2021 RIETS Launches First-Ever Master’s Degree in Rabbinic Literature for Fall 2021

By Jared Scharf

This article was published online on July 12.

The Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS) is beginning its first-ever Masters in Hebrew Letters (MHL) program this upcoming 2021-22 academic year. The one-year program is open to men with an undergraduate degree and will offer an MHL with a focus in rabbinic literature. The program includes two sedarim — sets of hours learning Torah — per day; students are able to join any Mazer Yeshiva Program (MYP) shiur for the morning and are of- fered various learning options for the after- noon and night, which are coordinated by RIETS Rabbi Daniel Feldman. According to the website, these courses will be covering “major sugyot [topics] in [].” Additionally, a mandatory Friday class will discuss the development of the Oral Torah. Grades will be given through final exams and projects. The program costs $3,750 per student. Aside from an undergraduate degree, re- quirements for admissions also include an entrance examination and a personal in- terview. The application for the program is online. “We expect a small cohort of students, as the details of the program emerged through the pandemic,” said RIETS Dean Rabbi Menachem Penner. “We hope that the program will expand significantly in the Fall of 2022.” Rabbi Penner did not specify the number of students, but Dr. Yuxiang Liu, director of Institutional Research & Assessment at Yeshiva University, noted that “some students in graduate programs usually register very late.” The program was conceived this past winter from a series of meetings with RIETS’ senior leadership and Board of Trustees, as part of YU’s increasing efforts to encourage students to continue pursuing Torah learn- ing after graduation, Rabbi Penner said. He explained that RIETS discovered it was authorized to offer an MHL and “thought that was a good [match].” Rabbi Yaakov Taubes, assistant director of RIETS programming, completed the necessary state approvals and paperwork through the New York State Education Department, and YESHIVA UNIVERSITY the program was officialized shortly after RIETS will be initiating its first-ever MHL program this upcoming 2021-22 academic year. Pesach. students because it makes it easier for them Previously, the Chaver Program, a one- to explain to potential employers or graduate “We are most excited about this new initiative to extend the year learning program for post-graduate schools why theyone are taking time off to time our talmidim learn at Yeshiva as well as maximize their male students, was the only option for men learn Torah. to learn in Yeshiva University without being “We are most excited about this new experience at RIETS. We also hope that these new degrees will enrolled in the semikha program. initiative to extend the time our talmidim The MHL program is not for students in learn at Yeshiva as well as maximize their bring new students to our beit midrash who have not yet had the the semikha program and is only designed experience at RIETS,” Rabbi Penner shared. privilege of a RIETS Torah education.” for students taking a year off after college “We also hope that these new degrees will ___ graduation. The program was also designed bring new students to our beit midrash who for people studying for admission exams have not yet had the privilege of a RIETS Rabbi Menachem Penner or working part-time. According to Rabbi Torah education.” Penner, a master’s degree is beneficial to DONNY MORRIS Z"TL Continued from Page 7 of Gemara, a perek of Mishnah or a perek of the void that now exists following Donny’s exemplified and lived by our values. He was that anyone could participate in,” Rabbi Tanach before Donny’s sheloshim. Currently, petirah [passing away].” Options include Daf known for his selflessness, his true love for Yosef Kalinsky, dean for Undergraduate nearly four cycles of all of Shas Mishnayos Yomi, shnayim mikra, Halacha, Navi, mus- learning and willingness to always help oth- Torah Studies told The Commentator. “We have been signed up for, along with three sar and divrei Torah on the parsha, doing ers in need.” also wanted people to consider taking on a cycles of all of Tanach and almost all of Shas a weekly chessed [good deed], and calling Morris’s funeral took place on Sunday kabbalah/commitment to change something Gemara. one’s grandmother. night, May 2, on Har Hazeitim in Israel, also in their lives — after habituating for 30 days The last part of the program, titled “We are simply devastated and filled with known as Mount of Olives. His sheloshim — so we came up with the self-improvement “Donny’s Seder,” is a learning initiative that tears at the tragic passing of Donny Morris will occur on Monday, May 24. initiative.” consists of Donny’s weekly Torah learn- Z”L at the catastrophe in Meron, Israel last “We wanted to do something more/differ- A global siyum for all of the learning will ing regimen and seeks to “emulate Donny’s evening,” President Ari Berman said in ent than the classical learning mishnayos in be held on June 1. strong commitment to a life of growth in ded- a statement to the student body on April memory for a sheloshim. We felt that the im- ication to limmud haTorah and cultivating 30. “As a student of our Yeshiva and a son pact of Donny's petira was felt by the larger the most refined middos tovos,” and “fill of a multigenerational YU family, Donny community and wanted to do something Tuesday, August 31, 2021 News 9 Wilf Director of University Housing and Residence Life Leaves YU After Four Months

was given regarding this news. August 2014 through December 2020, he By Sruli Fruchter It is unclear whether Seguin was asked worked at College of Mount Saint Vincent to leave or left on his own volition. His in several roles, including associate director This article was published online on May 14. LinkedIn page no longer displays his role of Housing and Residence Life. as director of UHRL. After former Wilf Campus Director Wilf Campus Director of University “We do not comment on personnel of UHRL Jonathan Schwab left YU in Housing and Residence Life (UHRL) Lee changes,” Vice Provost for Student Affairs November 2020, Senior Director of Student Seguin left Yeshiva University after four Dr. Chaim Nissel told The Commentator. Life Rabbi Josh Weisberg became the act- months in the position, The Commentator “We wish Lee well and appreciate all that he ing director while the university sought a has learned. did. We are working closely with our hous- replacement. Seguin filled the new role a Seguin’s initial appointment was an- ing team to ensure that our students have a few months later. nounced to Wilf students via email on Feb. 9, successful end of the semester and for fall Seguin is one of many university staff and on Thursday, May 13, Assistant Director housing enrollment.” members to leave the university over the of UHRL Michael Altaras emailed Wilf resi- The university is currently searching for last 1o months, including Assistant Director dent advisors (RA) about his departure. As a new director of UHRL. Nissel added that of UHRL Natan Bienstock in August 2020, of publication, the university did not notify “at this time we have not finalized our de- Schwab in November 2020, Wilf Campus students about Seguin leaving. cision regarding merging housing director Student Life Director Avi Schwartz in “I am reaching out to let you know that responsibilities for both [Wilf and Beren] December 2020 and OSL Director of Student as of today Lee will no longer be working campuses.” Events Linda Stone in March 2021. with us at University Housing and Residence Seguin came to YU with over 10 years of As of publication, Altaras and Seguin did Life,” Altaras wrote in his email to RAs. “I experience working with college students. not respond to The Commentator’s inquiries want to thank you for all your hard work From June 2011 through June 2014, he on the matter. and I know together we will finish off the worked at Bates College as coordinator of MANHATTAN Student Activities and Residence Life. From Seguin left his role as COLLEGE year strongly, as a team.” No explanation Wilf director of UHRL.

Two Wilf Hebrew Professors Resign as YU Ends In-Person Hebrew Program Next Year

the fall,” Linzer said, “but one of the prin- again next semester.” is to have a single program for both campus- By Sruli Fruchter cipals in Bergen County reached out to me Some Wilf students who were previously es so all students “will have the same course unexpectedly [in early June], offering a in Linzer and Schachter’s classes felt their offerings and competency expectations.” This article was published online on Aug. 19. Tanach position. YU has told its Hebrew departure was a significant loss for YU. Over the years, YU has reconfigured teachers they will not be needed after spring “I think I speak for many when I say that and changed the Wilf Hebrew program Wilf Hebrew Professors Lori Linzer and 2022, so it made sense to pursue this op- Professor Schachter has always exemplified several different times. YU’s most recently Aliza Schachter resigned this summer due portunity, especially because Tanach is my the values that make a great professor: re- redesigned Hebrew program for Wilf stu- to the university’s decision to end its in- passion.” Linzer taught Hebrew at YU for spect for her students and commitment to dents began in Fall 2020 and began its first person Hebrew program beginning in Fall over eight years. their success,” said Liav Garbuz (SSSB ‘22), year operating online via Zoom due to the 2022, The Commentator has learned. The Schachter, who taught at YU since 2010, who took Schachter for two of his Hebrew COVID-19 pandemic. new program will instead operate online — was motivated by the same reason. “I de- courses. “I certainly wish her well in all of According to Koller, an asynchronous in an asynchronous format — and does not cided not to return when I learned that YU her future endeavors and know that YU will model is “not any less expensive” to run require the re-hiring of Hebrew professors. was getting rid of all but one Hebrew teacher be lacking without her presence.” than an in-person one. He explained that the Linzer and Schachter were set to teach people-power needed to return feedback on three and four courses in the fall semester, “Knowing that I would no longer have a future teaching Hebrew assignments for “the hundreds of students respectively, and both professors are still we [will] teach each semester is not cheap.” listed to teach those classes on the MyYU at YU made it very difficult to stay.” “The goal here is not to save money,” student portal, which is used for course ___ Koller said, “but to create a program that registration. As of publication, students en- Prof. Aliza Schachter provides more options for students in terms rolled in their courses were not notified by of scheduling and learning.” YU about either professor’s resignation or and replacing us with asynchronous videos Alex Friedman (YC ‘22) was in two of “All in all, I am sad that an asynchronous about the university’s plans going forward. starting Fall 2022,” she explained. “Knowing Linzer’s courses and expressed a similar Hebrew program is what YU has chosen Dean of the Undergraduate Faculty of that I would no longer have a future teaching sentiment about her departure. “Professor for its students,” Linzer said. “So many of Arts and Karen Bacon told The Hebrew at YU made it very difficult to stay.” Linzer was one of the most caring and en- the students want to improve their Hebrew Commentator that students will be con- Next year, Schachter is working at gaging professors I have had at YU,” he said. conversational skills and this is nearly im- tacted once the university “finalize[s] faculty GETIDA, a technology solutions company “She made an otherwise difficult subject possible to do without human interactions.” assignments.” specializing in auditing Amazon sellers for of learning Hebrew fun and exciting. It's a She added, “As I told the Dean and the “Although it will not be possible to replace financial discrepancies. “While I will miss shame future YU students won't have the Provost, it has been a pleasure and privilege Professor Schachter or Professor Linzer in being in the classroom,” she said, “I am opportunity to take her.” to teach Yeshiva College’s students. I feel any real way,” explained Prof. Aaron Koller, excited for this new challenge.” Bacon told The Commentator that, cur- fortunate to have met and worked with so coordinator of the Wilf Campus Hebrew Some students registered for either pro- rently, Wilf and Beren students have “very many wonderful students, and I look forward Language Program, “there are a good num- fessor’s class were frustrated about the situa- different requirements and course sequenc- to hearing about their many successes in ber of competent Hebrew instructors in the tion. “As a student, I research each professor es.” She explained that the university’s plan years to come.” New York metropolitan area, and we are in prior to registration and I heard great things discussions with a few of particularly high about Professor Linzer,” Zach Wild (SSSB quality to staff the courses for this coming ‘23), said. He explained that he and other year.” students are put “in an awkward position All Beren Hebrew professors listed not knowing who will be teaching us next for courses on MyYU are expected to semester and whether or not that professor teach in the fall, according to Director of will even be a good teacher at all.” and Literature Prof. Wild added, “Obviously you can’t blame Zafrira Lidovsky-Cohen. She also told The Professor Linzer for leaving YU because Commentator that she will be working this long-term job security is imperative.” semester to “lead the efforts to move the Ozzie Jeselsohn (YC ‘23) felt disap- Hebrew program online” and will not be pointed about the news and felt YU should teaching Hebrew this fall. have communicated this to him. “I’ve been Linzer and Schachter credited their res- signed up for Professor Schachter’s class ignations to the university’s plan of ending for a while now and am upset that YU never the in-person Hebrew program. told me about this,” he said. “I had Professor “I was fully planning to return to YU in Schachter last semester, and she was amaz- ing — I was looking forward to taking her YESHIVA UNIVERSITY 10 News Tuesday, August 31, 2021 YU’s 2019 Tax Return Reveals Salaries of President Berman, Senior Officials

By Jared Scharf was $745,683, which included a base salary salary of $350,000. college that year. Joel’s house, which he just above $590,000 that was about $2,000 In contrast, some senior officials saw a has maintained since the beginning of his This article was published online on July 11. less than in 2018. That total also included decrease in pay. VP of Business Affairs Jacob presidency in 2003, cost $2.2 million and an additional compensation of $2,386 and Harman’s total compensation decreased continues to be owned by the university. Yeshiva University’s Form 990 from the nontaxable benefits — which could include from $663,860 in 2018 to $549,286 in 2019. Asked about Joel’s high compensation, 2019 fiscal year, which discloses the salaries health insurance or retirement services — of Ahron Herring, the university’s chief invest- a YU spokesperson told The Commentator and compensation of President Ari Berman $152,623. Additionally, Berman is provid- ment officer, made slightly over $419,000 that “other than what is required by law to be and numerous senior executives, was ob- ed with a $1.8 million parsonage house in in 2019, nearly $100,000 less than in 2018. disclosed in Form 990, the University does tained by The Commentator. Teaneck, NJ, which he has maintained since As of publication, YU did not immediately not disclose confidential salary or benefit Form 990 is an IRS form required for the beginning of his presidency. respond to The Commentator’s inquiries information of individual employees.” non-profit organizations, which provides its Lauer’s total compensation was $874,181 regarding these changes. The tax return also included informa- financial information for the general public. — over $170,000 more than in 2018 — Aside from the listed senior officials, for- tion on YU’s finances in 2019. That year, The form is due annually on May 15 and ranking him the highest-paid senior staff mer President — who is the YU spent nearly $2.4 million in advertis- becomes publicly available soon afterward. member of 2019, followed by Berman. In Bravmann Family University Professor and ing, about $130,000 less than in 2018. In 2019, Vice President (VP) for Legal 2018, his $700,000 compensation made taught three courses at the Sy Syms School Similarly, travel costs decreased from about Affairs and General Counsel Andrew Lauer, him second behind Berman. Joseph, who of Business in 2019 — continued to be on the $3 million in 2018 to about $2.5 million in former Senior VP Josh Joseph and Berman left YU in 2020, saw an increase of more top of the payroll in 2019. In addition to the 2019. It also showed that YU gave over $98 were the only executives on the form who than $200,000 from 2018 to 2019, for an university-owned residence, Joel continues million in “scholarships & fellowships” to made over $700,000, with Lauer breaking aggregate sum of $706,580. The 2019 tax to receive money from YU, this year with a 3,921 students. YU did not respond to The $870,000. Berman’s announcement last record also noted that both Joseph and Lauer total compensation of $428,283. In 2018, Commentator’s inquiries regarding whether summer that he would take a 20% pay cut received $250,000 in deferred compensation he made $665,889. that was across all of its schools or only while other senior officials took between from past years. Joel’s total compensation averaged $1.16 certain ones. 5-10% will be reflected in the 2020 Form Vice Provost Selma Botman received a million between 2009 and 2016, and was 990, which will be released next year. $50,000 raise in 2019, with a base salary $2.5 million in 2013, rendering him the Sruli Fruchter contributed to this story. Berman’s total compensation in 2019 of $400,000, compared to her 2018 base fourth-highest-paid executive in private

Joseph, Berman and Lauer (left to right) were the only senior officials who made over $700,000 in 2019. YESHIVA UNIVERSITY

Marjorie Rasinovsky-Albert Promoted in OSL, Several New Staff Members Hired to Focus on Student Affairs alum, current graduate student, employee, amazing resource for students and student University (OSU). As a university student, By Avigail Greenberg and a proud member of the YU community, I programming in her expanded new role.” Rahi worked in the International Student am looking forward to using my past experi- “I was lucky enough to get to know and Scholars Office and held leadership Marjorie Rasinovsky-Albert, formerly the ences to serve our student body in this new Marjorie through close collaboration on positions in the OSU International Student student life program manager at the Office of role,” she said. “Yeshiva University provided Yom Haatzmaut programming last spring,” Organization. Student Life (OSL), will be taking on the new me with some of the best years of my life, said Yeshiva Student Union President Elazar Reichenberg is a Stern College for Women role of associate director of student life, Vice and I am so excited to be able to give other Abrahams (YC ‘22). “She's an absolute leg- graduate who was actively involved in cam- Provost for Student Affairs Chaim Nissel students even more incredible opportunities end who understands and cares deeply about pus life as a student. After receiving her emailed students on Aug. 23. His email also on campus.” the students of YU, and I'm excited to see bachelor’s degree in biology and business, included that the Office of Student Affairs Rasinovksy-Albert’s promotion follows a what she can accomplish in this expanded Reichenberg went on to earn a master’s (OSA) hired several new staff members for year of departures from OSL. Student Life role.” degree in biotechnology management and various new positions. Coordinator Avi Schwartz left YU to work The new OSA staff come with their own entrepreneurship from the Katz School of Kristen Gartside and Rukia Rahi are in the ’s Jewish Learning backgrounds for their new roles. Yeshiva University. She spent the last year joining the Office of International Students Initiative on Campus at Rutgers University Gartside has worked in the field of in- as the primary coordinator for managing (OIS) as assistant director and international in December 2020. Following Schwartz’s ternational education for over seven years, COVID-19 related isolation and quarantine program coordinator, respectively. Alana departure, Director of Student Events Linda including nearly four years as an interna- on the Beren campus. Reichenberg is working with the Department Stone also stepped down. tional student advisor at The New School. Burrs holds a master’s degree from Kent of University Housing and Residence Life State University in higher education admin- (UHRL) as the new housing manager, along "Yeshiva University provided me with some of the best years istration and a bachelor’s degree in com- with another role in COVID-monitoring, munication, and is currently working on while Ashlee Burrs will begin as the director of my life, and I am so excited to be able to give other students earning a doctorate in higher education ad- of student success. even more incredible opportunities on campus." ministration. Her most recent roles include Rasinovsky-Albert’s role was created in ___ director of student success and learning place of the director of student events, for- center as well as director of campus life at merly held by Linda Stone. She will be re- Marjorie Rasinovsky-Albert Long Island University. sponsible for overseeing event programming In Nissel’s email to students, he an- administrative aspects of OSL. A graduate of “I congratulate Marjorie on this pro- Rahi was born in Baghdad, Iraq and raised nounced a total of 13 new hires or promo- SCW, Rasinovsky-Albert has over six years of motion,” commented Nissel. “Just as she in Stillwater, Oklahoma. She earned a bach- tions, some of which The Commentator experience working at the university. “As an has shined as a student and in her various elor’s degree in marketing and minored in previously reported on. roles on campus, she will continue to be an international business from Oklahoma State Tuesday, August 31, 2021 News 11 Fall 2021 Course Registration Resumes for Beren and Wilf Students After Technical Delays

By Sruli Fruchter the 10 a.m. registration slot assigned to On April 27, Information Technology that “it's very unfair and inconvenient to lower seniors. Services (ITS) emailed students about the expect the students to move around their This article was published online on May 11. In an email sent that day to Beren “upgrade of Banner Database Systems,” schedule for registration.” students around 12 p.m., Beren Associate which began on April 30 and ended on May Moshe Hecht (YC ‘22) also experienced Fall 2021 course registration resumed Registrar Aniruddha Das announced 2. As of publication, ITS did not respond difficulties. “It was frustrating trying to for Beren and Wilf students on Thursday, that registration was temporarily halted, to The Commentator’s inquiries regarding register for classes and being locked out, May 6 and Tuesday, May 11, respectively, crediting the delay to a “technical issue.” how, if at all, these changes affected the unsure if some of the classes I had hoped to after initially being suspended on May 5 Once the issue was resolved, Das notified registration difficulties experienced by take would be filled up,” said Hecht, who is and May 10 due to technical difficulties. students that the registration slots of students. classified as an upper junior. “Nevertheless, The delays occurred during the registration seniors, juniors and sophomores were As per standard policy, students can I think this is an issue YU can learn from slots of Beren seniors and Wilf juniors. adjusted to “re-prioritize” seniors and that continue to add courses until Sept. 10 and in the future by making sure everything is Beren Campus registration was set registration would resume the following drop courses without a “W” — which would up to code with their systems before class to begin on May 5 for seniors, May 6 for day on May 6. not indicate a “W” on one’s transcript — registration begins.” juniors, May 7 for sophomores and May Others, like Lily Polonetsky (SCW 11 for freshmen. The delays pushed the “I think this is an issue YU can learn from in the future by ‘22), were not significantly affected by the registration dates for seniors and juniors technical issues. “Mistakes happen,” she to the following days, and sophomores making sure everything is up to code with their systems before said. “Thankfully it wasn't such a big registered on May 10 at 9 a.m, before Wilf class registration begins.” deal for me because I got into the classes students experienced difficulties. ___ I needed, and the classes I couldn't get Registration for Wilf students began on into were specific for my major, so I knew May 6 for seniors, and the slots for juniors Moshe Hecht (YC '22) I would be able to get in once the issue was and upper sophomores were planned resolved. I understand it's frustrating but for May 10, while lower sophomores and On May 10 around 2:30 p.m., upper until Oct. 18. The drop date with a “W” my personal experience wasn't.” freshmen were designated times on May and lower juniors of Wilf Campus were requires permission from an academic Nissim Cantor (YC ‘23) had a similar 11. Due to registration being suspended prevented from registering after the MyYU advisor and ends on Dec. 2. experience. “Thankfully, I was able to on May 10 in the afternoon, juniors, portal experienced a “system outage,” Some students expressed annoyance register for all of my secular classes before sophomores and freshmen instead according to an email by Wilf Associate about the situation. “It's very upsetting after the system crashed,” he explained. “When registered on May 11. Registrar Rabbi Akiva Koenigsberg. all the work being done to the website that I attempted to register for my shiur less On May 5, when upper seniors of Beren He added that registration would be it can't function on such a day planned and than thirty seconds later, the system was Campus began selecting their fall courses suspended for the remainder of the day. expected for high traffic, like registration,” no longer functioning. Fortunately, I was at 9 a.m., the MyYU Banner portal, which is While some juniors did sign up for their shared Akiva Levy (YC ‘22). “I planned my able to register for my shiur after about used for course registration, indicated that desired courses, others could not due to schedule around [the original] registration, twenty minutes, but I know that many of “registration changes” were not allowed the technical issues. and I'm busy during the new time. It's very my friends were not as lucky.” and prevented students from signing up for Four hours later, Rabbi Koenigsberg upsetting and very inconvenient. It seems University Registrar Jennifer Spiegel their classes. While this was fixed shortly informed students that registration fairly unprofessional and unprepared of did not respond to The Commentator’s afterward, students were then locked out would resume the following day on May YU to be doing this — the traffic should be request for comment about the registration of some classes that needed prerequisite 11, beginning with upper juniors at 11:30 expected.” difficulties. courses, even if they had the necessary a.m. Each following hour, the lower grade Levy felt that the university was requirements. This issue continued into would be able to register. unprepared for the high traffic usage, adding

MICAH PAVA Course registration for Beren seniors and Wilf juniors was temporarily suspended due to technical issues. 12 News Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Moody’s Raises YU’s Credit Ranking to B2 With Positive Outlook in a First Since 2013 demoted outlook from “positive” to “stable” Moody’s determined the university’s situa- including a “more rapid” decline in liquid- By Sruli Fruchter since 2014, when it was first placed in the tion to be “stable,” followed by an upgraded ity and a failure to reduce “operating deficits B3 ranking. This year’s report attributed “positive” outlook for the next two years. in line with expectations.” This article was published online on June 23. YU’s upgrade to “positive momentum” with However, last year, in light of the pandemic S&P 500, another major credit rating revenue from tuition — which enhanced that financially crippled institutions across company, also upgraded YU’s credit rating After seven years in the subpar B3 rank- university operations — and improvement America, Moody’s brought down its outlook this year from “Negative” to “Stable” in its ing, Yeshiva University’s credit rating was in “liquidity and financial resources.” of YU to “stable.” BBB- category. upgraded by Moody’s Investors Service to Although a level higher than B3, the B2 According to the report, YU can further As of publication, Vice President of the B2 ranking with a “positive” outlook, ranking is still considered “speculative and improve its credit rating by sustaining rev- Business Affairs and Chief Financial Officer according to Moody’s June 22 report. high risk,” which can lead to continued high enue growth, controlling expenses and de- Jacob Harman did not respond to The Moody’s, a leading credit rating company, interest rates for YU from potential lenders. veloping strategies to “invest in capital and Commentator’s request for comment. publishes data on commercial and govern- In 2014, Moody’s downgraded YU from programs to strengthen market competitive- ment bonds relating to assets, debts and B1 to B3 with a negative outlook, drawing ness,” among other suggestions. income, all of which are used to measure attention to the university’s deteriorating The report also cautioned that several credit. Last year, YU’s rating faced its first financial condition. Three years later in 2017, factors could downgrade YU’s ranking,

Campuses and Events Receive Extra Security Due to Rise in Antisemitic Violence Across the US

By Jonathan Levin and Hamas, a state department-designated on May 26 that “there will be an adequate prejudice, they will be found.” terrorist group located in the Gaza Strip, security presence at the Yeshiva University The student response to the enhanced This article was published online on May 30. began to clash. In the New York metropolitan commencement at Arthur Ashe Stadium,” security measures has been positive. “I feel area, these attacks consisted of the attempted scheduled for that afternoon. The com- like it’s the right move, and a safer environ- Due to the recent spike of antisemitic torching of synagogues, and numerous inci- mencement passed without incident. ment for Jews in the city is better for both incidents in the United States, enhanced dents of gangs attacking Jews, in some cases Due to the anti-Jewish violence, New the Jews and the city,” Ezra Emerson (SSSB security measures for Yeshiva University’s with baseball bats and explosive devices. York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and other ‘23) told The Commentator. campuses and events began last week. Other students felt similarly, but felt that These steps were taken by the YU Security “I feel like it’s the right move, and a safer environment for Jews the scaling back of certain services due to the Department, the New York Police pandemic has created headaches for security. Department (NYPD) and by the New York in the city is better for both the Jews and the city.” “I wish the local shuttle would come back so State Police. ___ we don't need to bother individual security The Security Department informed the Ezra Emerson (SSSB '23) guards to walk us back to our building at student body in an email sent out on Friday, night,” said Leah Feder (SCW ‘22). “Even May 21 that it would increase security mea- On May 24, New York Governor Andrew government officials have met with represen- so, every time I've asked security to walk me sures, would be in close contact with the Cuomo announced that state troopers will tatives of the Jewish community, promising back they've been very helpful and welcom- NYPD and would have their personnel begin providing extra security near Jewish increased police presence and the arrest of ing and I truly appreciate all that they do.” available to escort students around campus. institutions in New York City and the Lower the perpetrators of any antisemitic attacks. Both the Security Department and the NYPD Hudson Valley, which includes both of YU’s After one such meeting on Sunday, May 23, The mayor’s office did not respond to The declined to comment on any of the specific campuses. Mayor de Blasio — according to CNN — told Commentator’s requests for comment. security measures on campus. In response to an inquiry from The reporters that “we will stomp out [antisemi- Antisemitic violence has risen globally Commentator about security at Yeshiva tism] anywhere we find it. It is unaccept- — including a spike of 80% in the United University’s 90th annual commencement, an able. This is a city that is for everyone, and States alone — since May 10, when Israel NYPD spokesperson told The Commentator anybody who perpetrates an act of bias and

THE COMMENTATOR YU Campus Security Tuesday, August 31, 2021 13

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Contact us: 718-853-0900 ext. 307 [email protected] Visit us online @makor_disability_services 14 Features Tuesday, August 31, 2021 How Prof. Alan Broder Changed the Game for We Asked, Hybrid Teaching Y(O)U Answered the classroom, contrasting to a typical Zoom cost of under $3,000. “What I’ve demon- Expectations By Gilad Menashe session where a participant could only hear strated is you could use this system for not whoever is closest to the speaker. The core that much money,” Broder said. The system for Return to This past year, as the vast majority of system was the Blackmagic Design ATEM was funded by an outside grant received by classes were operating at least partially on- Mini, which was the control panel for the the university. line, Chair of Computer Science at Stern entire system. Broder was able to present his Broder taught two courses this past se- Normalcy College for Women (SCW) Prof. Alan Broder slides in a weatherman-type of format using mester, COMP 1300 and COMP 1320, which By Daniel Melool and set up a technological system for his hybrid this control panel along with a green screen. both utilized this system. “Professor Broder’s classes that allowed for a more engaging The Blackmagic Design control panel pro- dedication to teaching gave his students Gilad Menashe experience for his virtual students without sacrificing the experience of those in-person. "Professor Broder’s dedication to teaching gave his students After more than a year of uncertainty, Broder presented his slides to his stu- an unparalleled experience on Zoom, one that came close to in students are returning to campus fully in- dents akin to a weatherman communicating person. Considering that the pandemic and a weather report. His image was displayed person classes." its implications affected certain students in front of the slides where he was able to ___ differently than others, The Commentator has collected a few perspectives on how indicate what was relevant, differing from Talia Leitner (SCW '22) the typical Zoom session where the professor students are feeling about the world going teaches from the corner of the Zoom screen. back to normal. The slides presented on the green screen duced what was shown on the green screen. an unparalleled experience on Zoom, one were displayed to the in-person students on “The remote students have reported to that came close to in person classes,” Talia Rivka Shavelson (SCW ‘23) an additional monitor beside Broder. The me that they’re tremendously engaged and Leitner (SCW ‘22) told The Commentator. Major: Speech Pathology and in-person students managed the class by they feel that it’s almost as good as being “We all benefited from his commitment, and Audiology looking back and forth between the monitor in person,” Broder told The Commentator. I was able to continue my computer science beside Broder when observing content and Complicated technological systems are courses with very few glitches.” “I am definitely excited to be back in directly at Broder when he lectured. not foreign to Broder. He ran a computer Broder’s system exhibits that any edu- the classroom, learning alongside my When Broder was having a back-and- software company for 15 years prior to teach- cator willing to take simple efforts could peers and face-to-face with my profes- forth discussion with a student, he shifted ing at SCW, where he has been teaching for ultimately change the quality of education sors. Despite the comfort and relief I feel the Zoom image to a view from the corner of the past eight years. He received this year’s given to their students. “I want other teach- from this return to normalcy, I am anxious the classroom — similar to a security camera Professor of the Year Award from SCW. The ers here and at other universities to see how about certain things as well. I am a second angle — so that the online students could see system he built perfectly demonstrates his a small expense could deliver a much more year student, but am still unfamiliar with the entire communication. dedication to his students and the effort engaging experience,” Broder advised. “This the campus. Additionally, the day-to-day Additionally, there were multiple speak- he has put into giving them a top-quality is not a substitute for normalcy, but if you lifestyle change will contrast with my vir- ers placed throughout the classroom for the education. “I put a lot of effort into being as have to do Zoom why not do it right?” tual habits that consisted of grabbing a virtual students to hear whoever was speak- engaging as I can with my students,” Broder This technology was simply a temporary snack from the fridge or taking a nap in ing at the same level of volume regardless of said. “When I started watching the videos solution to the global health crisis. As the between Zoom classes. I know that I’ll where the sound was being projected. of myself using standard Zoom I knew that world returns to normalcy and as the univer- have to reprogram myself back to ‘real The system used two key technologies. my students couldn’t possibly be engaged.” sity will be completely in-person this coming life.’ Although I am a little nervous, I am The first was a microphone array system Other additional equipment included the- fall, the system will be unnecessary. But what generally looking forward to this transition. from the brand Acoustic Magic that cap- ater lights to lighten up the image displayed Broder’s system has proven is that going the “The virtual classroom seemed to lend tured sound from around the classroom. on Zoom to students and a monitor in the extra mile for the students generates better itself much more toward lecture-style As mentioned before, the system allowed back of the classroom for Broder to see the performance, a skill that all educators must teaching and less interactive learning. remote students to hear a speaker at the “gallery view” of his virtual students. possess in order to adapt to any situation and Though discussions are a vital part of the same volume no matter where they were in This system was set up at a staggering provide the greatest quality of education. learning experience, lectures given on Zoom moved at a quicker pace and cov- ered more ground than they would have in person. Additionally, many classes were recorded so that students could go back and listen to points they missed or needed clarification on. If I could keep anything from the virtual experience, I would keep the class recordings. This would aid stu- dents by allowing them to absorb material repeatedly. “Being that this upcoming semester will be my first time on campus, it's hard for me to pinpoint my expectations. I imagine, however, that campus will be livelier and busier both in the classrooms and dorms. I think that a full student body will enhance the YU experience and will provide a sense of excitement. I am sure there will also be technical issues in readjusting to a full student body such as classrooms being double-booked or the Caf running out of food. After the first month or so, I'm con- fident that things will function much more smoothly as everyone –– students and staff included –– will be better adjusted to the routine and expectations of living on campus.”

Binyamin Jachter (YC ‘23) Major: Computer Science

“From the testing perspective, Zoom will never replace in-person testing. From the learning point of view, Zoom was just as good as absently watching a video online. If a class was pre-recorded, I can rewatch if necessary and email the professor if some- thing isn't fully clear. In-person is clearly superior in the capacity for learning. Even just being in a learning environment is TALIA LEITNER better than a corner of your house. Prof. Alan Broder has changed the game for hybrid classes. Continued on Page 15 Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Features 15

WE ASKED, Y(O)U ANSWERED Continued from Page 14 Hezbollah — What’s Next? for a larger conflict with Israel. Hassan damage. Also notable is that Nasrallah has “Making recorded classes standard would By Rami Levin Nasrallah, the chief of Hezbollah, has open- said Hezbollah will retaliate to airstrikes be incredibly helpful. I studied by listening ly said they will retaliate against future “in a suitable and proportionate way.” If to class recordings. It also benefits those who In the midst of the Israeli-Hamas crisis Israeli airstrikes. he holds to this standard, Hezbollah would had an off day and couldn't focus to not fall of 2021, from May 13 to 19, about a dozen Another Lebanon-Israeli war would be not escalate to an open conflict. behind as quickly. Granted, that may lead to rockets were fired from Lebanon into Israel. disastrous. Hezbollah is estimated to have It should be noted that Hezbollah is not others’ feeling that class isn't required, but This was the first time since late 2015 that 40,000 to 150,000 rockets. Such a bar- Hamas. Here’s why that is important. if you can perform well on exams and still such an attack was carried out, breaking the Hamas is the government of the Gaza be a part of the class, I don't think there is unofficial ceasefire and paving the road for strip. They have full control over their ter- much to gain from having that attitude in further attacks over the summer. These attacks give rise to a ritory, using courts to punish those deemed the classroom anyway. The next rockets over the Lebanese bor- criminal. The only way to expand is conflict “I hope that the campus environment valid fear of war. der would come two months later. On July with Israel. The same cannot be said of is back to complete normalcy, without the 20, at 3:54 a.m., sirens went off in about Hezbollah in Lebanon where the govern- regulations of where and when students can ten towns in northern Israel. This time, rage would absolutely overwhelm the Iron ment is still functioning. Hezbollah still hang out and the need for reservations to use only two rockets were fired. Dome. And, unlike Hamas’s rockets, these has more internal room to “grow.” An open facilities. As the world transitions back into The latest round of attacks on Israel are military grade. conflict with Israel would weaken Hezbollah normalcy, I expect YU to emulate that and proper occurred on Aug. 4, at 12:15 p.m.: Fortunately, escalation is not guaran- and limit their ability to gain further con- reincorporate its pre-pandemic routines.” Three rockets were fired, with two land- teed. For one, Hezbollah has not claimed trol of Lebanon. At the same time, how- ing in Israel. Two days later, on Aug. 6, responsibility for any of the following ever, Hezbollah is funded by Iran. Indeed, Malka Kershner (SCW) sirens went off in three towns in the Golan attacks, except for the launches into the Hezbollah has been called an Iranian proxy. Major: Psychology Heights. Golan Heights. The attack that occurred on As Iran speeds up uranium enrichment and These attacks give rise to a valid fear July 20, for example, was claimed by the Israel contemplates striking Iran, Hezbollah “I consider it a joy to return to in-person of war. With the current instability of the Palestine Islamic Jihad, a terrorist organi- might be influenced to launch rockets as a learning; however, the return to normalcy Lebanese Republic, the terrorist organiza- zation affiliated with Hamas. While other distraction. This would put Hezbollah at a affects some students’ level of comfortably tion Hezbollah has functionally become, for attacks are unclaimed, Hezbollah’s denial crossroads: Attack Israel and be put under attending school. Zoom allows students to many, the de-facto government. As such, of responsibility could be viewed as sort of greater Iranian influence, or have a cold join classes regardless of physical location. Hezbollah would be aware of planned at- a “de-escalation.” peace while establishing a stronger grasp Students from all over the world can con- tacks along the Lebanese border with Israel. More significantly, none of these at- over Lebanon. tribute to the classroom in an easily acces- Considering this pattern of attacks, it tacks have resulted in any casualties on What will Hezbollah do next? Such re- sible fashion. While in-person classes are appears rockets will not stop for the near either side. Many rockets launched at Israel mains to be seen. For now, expect bloodless wonderful, I feel strongly that the addition future. While the rockets launched in May are landing in empty fields, and those that shows of force, with a possibility of a sharp of a virtual alternative is highly beneficial could have been in response to Israeli air- aren’t have been intercepted by the Iron escalation. for both students and faculty. strikes in Gaza, there isn’t as clear of a Dome. Israeli airstrikes into Lebanon have “Zoom is a wonderful advancement in reason why rocket attacks are happening also not caused casualties. Effectively, cur- making programs and lessons accessible now. This could indicate Hezbollah’s desire rent rocket fire is for “show,” not for actual globally. This is beneficial on many levels for both students and faculty. While in-person classes require limited attendance, vaccina- FROM THE COMMIE ARCHIVES tion and other regulations and protocols, Zoom is safe, limitless, inclusive and forward (January 1, 1948; Volume 26, Issue 5) — Maybe thinking. I believe if YU were to provide options of both in-person and virtual at- I’m Wrong: Expressing Student Criticism Purpose tendance, the result would be positive and provide easier accessibility to students.” Of Undergrad Paper Ilana Aidman (SCW ‘23) Major: Studio Art to turn elsewhere. “Commie” has always for good within these walls. By Myron M. Fenster stood for forthright uncensored opinion of We are living through a period which “I’m happy about the transition from the student body of Yeshiva College, with- sees the squelching of student opinion on Zoom back to fully in-person because I’ll Editor’s Note: Since its founding, The out waiting years to express that opinion all sides, in colleges throughout the country actually be able to pay attention in class and Commentator has been a paper of free and without waiting to see whether or not which were formerly noted for their liberal- look at people’s outfits. There is nothing from thought and diverse opinion. Below is an it could stand the test of time. In all in- ity of thought. For that reason, Dr. Belkin the virtual experience that I want to keep — it editorial from the 26th volume’s manag- stances majority opinion is expounded. is to be highly lauded for never having at- was so bad. I do hope that it stays common ing editor, Myron M. Fenster, discussing Whether it be dramatics or pleas for a mili- tempted to usurp our freedom by censor- for people to stay on campus for Shabbos. the importance of the constructive criti- tant we feel the will of the student ing the content of this paper. This, despite “I think that campus life will, hopefully, be cism often expressed in the paper. As we body of Yeshiva College is being expressed. pressure many times from highly influential full of people. I also don’t think that masks are in the month of Ellul, this piece serves Dissenting student opinion is heartily wel- sources. It may even surprise some to know will stay on as long as they did last year.” as a reminder that in the quest for self- comed. I can truthfully state that I have that the editors fully appreciate the freedom betterment, one should be constructive and never barred these pages to any student of movement that has been offered to them not destructive. in this institution. Our sole purpose is to and have never purposely profaned that record student opinion. freedom. It becomes poignantly evident with each Unfortunately, no institution can be free successive issue that many do not fully un- 'Commie' has always stood of some internal deficiencies. We feel it derstand the scope and purpose of an under- incumbent upon us to point these out from graduate newspaper. The members of this for forthright uncensored the students’ viewpoint with hope of their staff who from time to time express their opinion of the student body early amelioration. Instead of disregarding views herein are considered the bearers of all criticism as just so much blasting by well- only unpleasant, highly-exaggerated tidings of Yeshiva College, without meaning but politically naive individuals, it with the result that any and all suggestions would seem worth the administration while are usually ignored. This is grossly unfair. waiting years to express that to actually look into some of the suggestions In the past the opinion columns of to see if they are sound or not. “Commie” have been, on the whole, of a opinion and without waiting What is most important of all, I feel that critical nature. But in all instances these to see whether or not it could readers construing our opinions as being have been offered in a strictly constructive directed against the core of Yeshiva are manner, the aim being the improvement of stand the test of time. committing a gross injustice to us. an institution which we all hold dear. At no Regrettably enough, a certain Jewish time has any criticism purposely been given weekly, always prone to play up the dis- in a derisive manner either to indIviduals We do not for one moment contend sident forces of Orthodox , has or groups. Why some consider a divergence that our knowledge is equal to that of our found these pages fruitful hunting grounds. of opinion a sign of disrespect or why they teachers and leaders, but to us the students Perhaps they will also be interested in what feel personally affronted or insulted when are the most important, the pivotal part is to follow. Despite all the criticism, which our opinion disagrees with theirs is difficult of this University. Commentator exists so is done only in the hope of self-betterment, to understand. that these students may have a medium for the students, including the “reformers” and I would be the first to agree that in the their expression. Despite the protestations, the “revolutionaries,” consider this institu- THE COMMNETATOR The Commentator past the Commentator may have been wrong despite the unbecoming cries of “reformers” tion unparalleled as far as erudition and Archives on certain issues. We do not claim to be and “revolutionaries,” I think that any hon- liberality is concerned. They consider it a infallible, perfectionists being requested est observer will readily admit that through true symbol of of which the years this paper has been an instrument we all may feel extremely proud. 16 Tuesday, August 31, 2021

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I simply wasn’t sure how to explain to the not to go to the police or the school imme- make me feel safe on campus this upcom- By Anonymous professor that I was sexually assaulted diately after the assault. ing year. Since getting the results I have two nights prior or that I had to go to the In truth, the outcome had proven why reached out multiple times concerning my Editor’s Note: Under normal circum- hospital to get a rape kit and have testing I wanted to keep silent. The duration and safety in the library and other spaces on stances, The Commentator does not pub- done during class. Overwhelmed with the back-and-forth with the school felt like an campus as I will be on campus again this lish articles anonymously, but given the situation and the inability to explain to the eternity, and the time spent waiting for the coming year. I have been told to just deal exceptionally sensitive nature of this professor what had happened, I burst out school's response afterward seemed like with it and that nothing can be done by YU piece, we have decided to grant the author in tears. The professor then proceeded to no less of an eternity. What I was made to — not one thing. The perpetrator is a play- anonymity. er on the men’s basketball team, so I also Sometimes I feel as if telling the school was almost as painful reached out to the Athletics Department. It Content Warning: This article mentions turns out that it’s simply not in the school’s and briefly describes the author’s sexual and hard to go through as the rape itself. interest to prevent me from running into assault, which may be upsetting to some my rapist again. I am not sure why YU has readers. kick me out of class as they did not under- believe would be a quick investigation ex- chosen to ignore me and try to silence me, stand what was happening. That was when tended over the course of three months, in but I think it has to do with the reputation When I first heard about the conversa- I knew I needed to face the discomfort of which every day I would anxiously refresh of the basketball team. tions of rape culture on college campuses, the situation and contact the school. When my email for any updates on what was go- After this happened, I started to realize I remember thinking to myself that surely I reached out to Vice Provost Nissel’s of- ing to happen. The process felt like a re- that there is indeed a rape culture at Ye- rape could never happen at Yeshiva Uni- fice, I decided to keep the perpetrator com- traumatization of what I had been through shiva University, and it enables rapists to versity. Then it happened to me this past pletely anonymous because at the time I — like I was still holding on to the incident rape without fear of getting in trouble. YU year. felt so much shame and guilt for what had that I would do anything to let go of — and is not an exception to the rule –– its found- In retrospect, I realize I had felt falsely happened: I felt guilty for being so trusting each day of waiting was just adding to that ing pillars have become weak. Every stu- protected by the morals and values that are of my fellow YU student, and I felt bad for trauma. dent deserves to feel safe on campus, and the founding pillars of our institution. He possibly ruining his life just as he had done Finally, I received an answer, but not right now, they do not. The moral structure was also a YU student, and he was on the to mine a few nights before. the one I was looking for. Vice Provost is collapsing, and I experienced one of its men’s basketball team; we agreed to hang The school continuously asked me to Nissel’s office gave me the news that “it’s fatal breachings. Students are not safe on out for a little while, and then he raped give over the name, as they claimed they usually hard to prove something happened campus, and the school cares too much me. I still remember the shock I was in as could only help me if I gave it over. They when only two people were there.” This left about its image to restore its values or do I sat in the hospital the day after the rape. claimed that giving over the name would me in complete shock. My heart sank. My anything about it. Rape culture is real at My heavy thoughts quickly changed from not only ensure my safety but the safety world was turned upside down. I had de- YU, and it needs to be taken seriously. “it could never happen at YU” to “did this of other female students on campus. I fi- veloped a sense of hope that after months really just happen at YU?” Part of me did nally gave over the name, and the school of worrying and pain, I might finally be If you or anyone you know needs help and not want to believe that it happened in our took over from there. They made me and validated and heard, but I was not. The support, you can call the National Sexu- institution, but I am now forced to realize my rapist sign a non-disclosure agreement same people who had constantly encour- al Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 or that a school like Yeshiva University essen- (NDA) before anything was done, which I aged me to go through this painful process visit Rape, Abuse and Incest National Net- tially acts as a sanctuary for rapists, since was made to believe would have a positive — all the while promising that I would feel work’s website at rainn.org. If you would the school system allows them to walk free- outcome. I am limited in what I can share safe again — seemed to have pretty much like to share your story with The Com- ly while forcing victims to suffer in silence about the school’s involvement because of known from the start that nothing would mentator, please email Sruli Fruchter at and pain. that NDA. come from it. [email protected]; any informa- I can sometimes be a very trusting Since formal claims were made with the The school has refused to do anything to tion you share is completely confidential. person, especially when it comes to other university that a member of the basketball people at my school, so naturally, I trusted team raped me, another player on the team him. I do not wish to go into details, but decided to slut-shame me in a semi-public when he proceeded to hold me down and place, calling me a “whore” and “slut.” He respond to my “no” with “but it’s fun,” I told me, “You’re so dumb for letting this knew that I could no longer trust anyone happen to you.” As a member of another at YU. The feeling of his body holding me athletics team, this is extremely surprising down with no escape will forever be en- considering the NCAA goes to great lengths graved in my mind. I explicitly told him I for sexual harassment trainings. did not want to have sex, I remember tell- Sometimes I feel as if telling the school ing him “no,” but that word had no mean- was almost as painful and hard to go ing in his mind. He had already decided he through as the rape itself. I was alone and would not take “no” for an answer. “But it's continuously had to give over my story — fun,” he said. That clearly had more weight every single detail — some of which I could in his mind, since it was the last thing he not remember because I felt as though said before he raped me. my brain had partially shut off during the I won't lie. I felt completely lost and rape in order to protect myself. The same confused for the months following the repression that protected me also made rape. Immediately afterward, I did not me feel dumb, as the school would ask the want to tell the school. I was extremely most technical of questions about the inci- hesitant. Everything was so fresh. I was dent. It was a consistently unfortunate and not even sure how to process it. I told some overwhelming conflict. of my friends about what happened, but At one point, I was questioned by a man my mind still could not process the viola- as to why I chose not to go to the police. tion both my body and mind were going I answered that I was scared, shocked and through. I only decided to take matters to alone. He thought it was ridiculous. The the school after a professor yelled at me for man made me feel bad about myself and missing a class and the work for that class. second guess myself because I had chosen Wilf Campus YESHIVA UNIVERSITY

University Statement

Yeshiva University is dedicated to en- stricts what we are allowed to share to pro- NDA was signed by the parties in order to By Yeshiva University gaging everyone with respect and dignity tect the parties involved, we treat this and protect the confidentiality of the investiga- while providing a safe and secure envi- all allegations in a caring, sensitive, and tion and the integrity of the process. The Editor’s Note: The following statement ronment for our students, faculty, and compassionate manner. As is our standard NDA did not in any way restrict any party was sent to The Commentator follow- the entire YU Community. To this end, we practice in sexual misconduct complaints, from speaking about the incident or their ing our recent publication of the article, have extensive policies and procedures in we immediately retained independent in- experience. In addition, at the beginning “I Thought Rape Culture Didn’t Exist at place, required by Title IX, to address al- vestigators to conduct a comprehensive and throughout the process, the University YU — Until I Was Raped.” While we usu- legations of sexual misconduct in which all inquiry into the allegations and a final de- informs all complainants that they can go ally include university statements in news complaints are investigated fully and com- termination was made based on a full eval- to the police with the full support of the pieces, we have decided to publish this prehensively. YU also conducts annual ha- uation of all available information. University. here. rassment and misconduct training for staff Based on the advice of outside legal and students. While the law very clearly re- counsel, prior to delivery of the report, an 18 Opinions Tuesday, August 31, 2021 An Unmitigated Disaster: The Pullout From Afghanistan

amount of freedom to the Afghan people. Here, we arrive, finally, at the commander- scheduled a vacation for a time of crisis. In By Elishama Marmon Most significantly, for 20 years there were in-chief of the United States armed forces, the same interview he callously dismissed the no more 9/11s. There were no more attacks whose approval, if not leadership, created people who had fallen from planes, saying Over the course of only a few days, the on American soil originating in Afghanistan. this mess: Joe Biden. His messaging about (falsely), “that was four days ago-five days Afghan military and national government fell With our withdrawal, the risk of the next this has been confusing, even downright ago”. He asserted that no one was dying at to the Taliban terror group. But the Taliban’s 9/11 is elevated significantly. contradictory. Not only that, but he lied to the Kabul Airport (which is incorrect), that resurgence and the government’s collapse So the withdrawal itself was a foolhardy the American people. the US has no troops in Syria (incorrect) were entirely preventable, caused entirely mission. But even many people who were He described the situation in Afghanistan and that he wasn’t told by his own advisers by bad decisions made at the top levels of interested in withdrawing are currently un- as an “endless war” which would add “end- to leave troops there (evidence says this is American leadership. happy with the situation. For that matter, less rows of headstones at Arlington National also incorrect). The United States first sent troops into this withdrawal has been such a disaster Cemetery.” This, as discussed above, is a This entire episode has shown the world Afghanistan in the aftermath of 9/11. Now, that the number of Americans who support completely false claim to make about the one thing: America is a bad ally. We betrayed almost 20 years later, we have left. There are it dropped from 73% in April to just 45% situation he inherited. He claimed he had the Afghan army, cutting off their air sup- two large questions here: First, should the now. What went wrong? no choice due to the deal that the Trump port, intelligence and even contractors to US have withdrawn its troops, and second, The short answer is everything. We pulled administration made with the Taliban, de- maintain their vehicles, and then blamed did we execute the withdrawal in the best out our last troops before we evacuated our spite the fact that the Taliban violated the them for their loss. We betrayed our coalition possible way? embassy or, for that matter, got our citizens terms of that agreement, and that Biden has partners, leaving them under an oppressive and allies out. Now, that embassy has been proven completely willing to get rid of many regime with no way out. And we betrayed taken over, and our people –– over 10,000 Trump deals he didn’t like. He claimed, in thousands of our own citizens, leaving them This entire episode has shown Americans and 85,000 Afghans –– are a ridiculous smear, that the Afghan army’s stranded in Afghanistan with no guarantee the world one thing: America is trapped under Taliban rule. We abandoned collapse proved that they were not willing of their safety as they try to escape. the larger Bagram Airport without informing to fight the Taliban, despite the fact that the What does this mean for our geopolitics? a bad ally. our allies, and now we no longer have the Afghan army has lost over 70,000 troops President Biden has made the unbeliev- airport capacity for effective evacuations. over the course of this conflict, far more ably false claim that our adversaries would We negotiated with the Taliban, and may than the US ever did. like nothing more than for us to stay in The US has sunk, in popular parlance, a have paid them off, to let people get to the Furthermore, on July 8 the president Afghanistan. But all evidence suggests oth- lot of “blood and treasure” into Afghanistan. airport at all. Now, not only are our people assured the world that the odds of “the erwise. It seems more likely that our adver- That can be measured at nearly a tril- at their mercy, but we only have until their Taliban overrunning everything and owning saries –– China, Russia, North Korea, Iran lion dollars, 2,300 US troops killed and Aug. 31 deadline to get the Americans out. the whole country is highly unlikely.” This –– are overjoyed in seeing a weak America 20,660 Americans injured. That is a high And what about the Americans unable to get proved to be incorrect and to conflict with unwilling to help its allies, led by a weak cost, but when deciding between staying out before then? It seems at this point that many intelligence reports now being released President unable to handle crises. in Afghanistan and leaving, it’s critical to we will simply abandon them, along with to the public. He then claimed during an Aug. What message will Taiwan take from note two things –– timeline and benefits. our Afghan allies, to the tender mercy of the 18th interview that chaos was always going to this? What about Hong Kong? Israel? Can At the conflict’s peak, the US had 110,000 Taliban, which has a track record of brutal be part of the withdrawal and that this was they trust the United States, particularly this troops in Afghanistan. Since 2015, how- and heartless attacks on those they consider in fact the best it could have gone. If that’s administration, to stand by them in their ever, we have had only about 10,000 troops to be enemies. In the meantime, people are true, not only does it raise questions about own struggles? Recent events unfortunately in Afghanistan, and that was lowered to passing their babies over the airport’s barbed his previous briefings, but also about why he suggest not. about 2,500 by 2021. Spending has been wire fence to get them out of the country, and reduced to under 40 billion dollars a year, others are hopelessly clinging to planes as and we’ve averaged under 14 fatalities a year they take off, plummeting to their deaths. since 2015, including over a year without a This is before touching on the effect on single one. That was not a “forever war.” That the people of Afghanistan, including but not was not a large US force when you consider limited to: Taliban massacres, journalists be- that we have more troops in Italy, the UK, ing targeted, girls being restricted from cer- Kuwait, Bahrain, Iraq, Spain, Qatar, Japan tain jobs and schools and pictures of women and Germany. The war in Afghanistan was being painted over. Americans, Christians no more a “forever war” than WWII, and and anyone who helped the previous regime in recent years we had pulled back to such have to worry about the Taliban’s door- a small force that we could have easily sus- to-door searches, the checkpoints where tained it in perpetuity. Taliban officials are checking papers and But what was the return for this mod- destroying many people’s documents, and est expenditure? The goal of the war in much more. Afghanistan was rooted in 9/11 and the death There are only two possibilities as to what of over 3,000 innocent American citizens. happened here: either there was a complete After the Taliban, who harbored al-Qaeda, breakdown in the intelligence coming out refused to give up 9/11 mastermind Osama of Afghanistan, or the intel was accurate bin Laden, we began combat operations. We and some people made terrible decisions. routed the Taliban, killed bin Laden, and, as Reports coming out over the last few days a side benefit, brought an unprecedented point toward the latter. So where did the withdrawal go wrong? US Marines at a Kabul Airport evacuation checkpoint, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Aug. 20, 2021 The Pundit What the Events in Afghanistan Tell Us About American Foreign Policy subsequent takeover by the Taliban. While Biden. However, Biden was not the only casting blame, we should be learning from By Alex Friedman America’s withdrawal was supposed to target; many Democrats blamed President what happened so we can ensure that US mark the end of a nearly 20-year-long war, Trump for the crisis because of his deal foreign policy changes for the better and Editor’s Note: This article is the first in America was forced to send troops back into with the Taliban last year, setting a May that the current events in Afghanistan are a new Commentator column called The Afghanistan after the Taliban swept through 31 deadline for American troops to with- never repeated. Pundit, developed in partnership with the the country and regained power in a mere draw without handing over a proper plan While watching all of the coverage from Dunner Political Science Society. It is a 11 days. It is obvious that the withdrawal to the Biden administration. Some com- Afghanistan, the thing that struck me most platform for students to express and share of forces did not go according to plan, and mentators even blamed President Obama was the Taliban’s attempts to appease the diverse perspectives on politics and current the scenes of the American embassy being for Afghanistan’s collapse while some went West and launch a PR campaign on Western events. For more information about the hastily evacuated and the chaos at Kabul as far back as President George W. Bush. In media outlets. Watching any of the major society, and to write for The Pundit, email Airport have turned the withdrawal into a reality, the responsibility for recent events in news outlets, you would see the Taliban’s Alex at [email protected]. humanitarian disaster and a crisis for the Afghanistan probably lies on the shoulders English spokesperson, Suhail Shaheen, Biden administration. of all four. However, trying to assign blame speaking to the likes of CNN and the BBC, Recent headlines have been dominat- Of course, in the days following the does nothing to change what happened, does saying that women’s rights and freedom of ed by the drama and horror occurring in Taliban’s takeover of Kabul, it seemed the not immediately tell us what we can do dif- speech would be protected and that there Afghanistan following the withdrawal of focus on every politician’s mind turned to ferently in the future and certainly does not will be no retaliation against former Afghan American forces from the country and the blame, with most of it directed at President help the people of Afghanistan. Instead of Continued on Page 19 Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Opinions 19

THE PUNDIT take a radical and anti-Western shift, the This, coupled with existing sanctions by the engagements ruined. However, the after- Continued from Page 18 new President, Mohammed Morsi, reas- US and other countries on the Taliban, will math of the collapse of Afghanistan has officials. Listening to this spokesperson, as sured America and its allies such as Israel make it impossible for the Taliban to govern demonstrated that America’s influence and well as to the Taliban Press Conferences in that Egypt’s agreements would stay intact effectively. These sanctions make it difficult economic power still rule, even when its mil- Kabul, it would seem the Taliban is building itary’s credibility suffers. Just a few days in a pluralistic and democratic state that pro- Instead of casting blame, we should be learning from what governance has shown the Taliban that their tects the rights of all. Of course, the reality only successful path in maintaining their is far from that. The Taliban has already happened so we can ensure that US foreign policy changes for governance is not with Chinese or Russian returned to some of their brutal ways, and support but with American support. Will the the fact that the Taliban is building a sophis- the better and that the current events in Afghanistan are never Taliban change their ways? Most certainly ticated international PR campaign to show not, but that doesn’t mean America cannot the world that they are upholding Western repeated. change. The future strength of American for- values is startling. eign policy is not in the Defense Department, As New York Times reporter Max Fisher and that he would undertake a “balanced” for international and humanitarian aid to but in the State and Treasury Departments, put it: “The result is head-spinning scenes foreign policy. But, unlike Morsi and almost enter Afghanistan as well. as well as in international organizations. As like Mr. Mujahid’s [the Taliban’s spokes- any modern government that has come to After 800,000 American troops de- President Biden himself said at his inaugu- man] press event, with hardened fighters power, the Taliban has been a sworn enemy ployed, 2,352 Americans killed, 20,000 ration speech, “We will lead not merely by toiling to appease the very foreign powers of the US for decades, one whose coopera- wounded and more than two trillion dollars the example of our power but by the power they dedicated their lives to expelling, and tion with American soldiers and diplomats spent, it seems we are back to square one — of our example.” trying to smooth over the hard-line ideol- would seem unthinkable just a few years with America’s reputation in international ogy that animates their movement.” And ago. But it is happening right now. the audience could not be clearer. China Above all, what this shift in the Taliban’s has already taken steps to recognize the attitude tells us is how important legitimacy Taliban’s regime, and Russia has indicated in the eyes of America is for any aspiring they are willing to engage with the Taliban. government. America has created an in- For the Taliban, the last big prize remain- ternational system dominated by itself and ing, and really the most important prize, is its partners, reliant on the US dollar and legitimacy from America and its partners. full of American-led international orga- This strange dichotomy is not new. Indeed, nizations such as the United Nations, the it has been demonstrated before by newly World Bank, the International Monetary formed governments. Fund and the World Trade Organization. For example, when the Muslim Soon after the Taliban took power, the US froze billions of dollars in Afghan govern- Brotherhood came to power in Egypt in CPL SAM SHEPHERD 2012, stoking fears that the country would ment reserves placed in US bank accounts. Afghanistan, 2011 On Hamas Rockets, the Sheikh Jarrah Crisis and Fighting Antisemitism Online

By Avigail Winokur It’s by far the worst rocket warfare in the in a fortified shelter. That is, those who are the most non-partisan, factual view of cur- last decade. lucky enough to have one nearby. They’re rent events as it relates to Israel in a way This article was published online May 12. There is a war brewing, if not ensuing. sometimes scarce in apartments that will reach the largest audience. Operation Guardian of the Walls. because Jerusalem isn’t usually subject to Because of the time I’ve spent on this As I’m writing this, over 1,050 rockets I have friends in the IDF, and though rocket threats and red alerts. platform, I’ve been exposed to neo-Nazis, have been launched by Hamas into Southern as women they won’t be on the front lines, I was living in Jerusalem up until a Israeli and Palestinian extremists, and and Central Israel. At least five Israelis and they are gearing up their soldiers. They month ago. Had this happened then, it misinformed Americans. I’ve seen both an Indian caretaker have been murdered don’t know what tomorrow is going to bring. would have been me hearing red alert sirens American laymen and politicians believe by those Hamas rockets, and at least nine The current violence is pervasive, dis- and watching the Iron Dome disintegrate that their surface-level knowledge of a nu- Palestinian children have been killed (along anced and complicated conflict gives them with 47 other people, both civilians and the right to speak out from the comfort of Hamas militants), due both to Israeli retali- To bring peace, we have to understand that the past, present and their North American homes. ation strikes and some likely by a Hamas future of Israelis and Palestinians are irrevocably intertwined. What I know is this: Israel has an unde- rocket misfire. 21-year-old IDF Sergeant niable and inalienable right to both exist Omer Tabib was murdered by a Hamas There is no future or self-determination of one group without and defend itself. Posting #FreePalestine anti-tank missile fire. while presenting a demonizing, double- Jews have been nearly lynched for tak- the other. standard and delegitimizing view of Israel ing a wrong turn into a Palestinian village (see Natan Sharansky’s 3Ds) will NOT bring (only to be saved by a righteous local), and turbing, and feels deeply personal. There rockets before my eyes. That would have Palestinians any freedom. It only perpetu- Palestinians have been teargassed and shot. are videos of desecrated synagogues in been me spending my nights in a bomb ates antisemitism. Terrorists have been attacked, Hamas tar- , a town where I was just over a shelter, listening to explosions overhead, Don’t get me wrong. I think there’s a gets have been neutralized and our country month ago. A similar event in today knowing that mayhem and destruction lie large gap in our pro-Israel education. Those is on fire. There are videos of children on was dubbed a “Kristallnacht in Lod” by the outside. That could have been me duck- of us that attended Zionist day schools know both sides of the Gaza border cowering in town’s mayor. My good friends and family, ing for cover on Ben Yehuda street, with what I’m talking about. We receive an edu- fear. It’s impossible to fully capture and located all over the country, have spent a nowhere to go in the 90 seconds one has cation that is largely one-sided. This is the recount the scope of the violence happening. good portion of their last 24 hours hiding to take cover. same criticism many of us have of those who Eid al-Fitr, the end of Ramadan, is on are posting only the Palestinian perspective Wednesday. I wonder if the three dead on social media. Palestinian children were planning activities Through a lot of research and exposure for the festivities for one of the most joyous to multifaceted opinions, conversations with days in the Muslim calendar. They would people who think differently than me, both be alive if Hamas respected the sanctity of Israeli and Palestinian, I’ve come to realize a life. Those children are only dead because few things. To truly be pro-Israel, one needs Hamas values agenda-fueled warfare over to recognize Israel’s flaws, acknowledge ar- the security of its people. eas for improvement, and most importantly, I don’t know how to feel. recognize the suffering that the Palestinian Many YU students have seen YUPAC’s people have had to endure (at the hands Instagram account, @yupac21. For more of their own leaders and the Israeli gov- information about what sparked the cur- ernment). As long as the criticism is with rent tension, the Sheikh Jarrah Crisis, I the intent to improve, one can safely do so recommend checking out our infographic outside of violating Sharansky’s 3Ds. as a start. That is just as a start because To be very clear, I’m saying this as an historical and legal land battles cannot be outspoken and proud Zionist. You can find summarized into an eight-slide infographic. proof of that on both my personal social That leads me to what I wanted to write media pages and YUPAC’s. about today. Because of my role as YUPAC’s True Zionism is not equivalent to hatred PR director (and incoming co-president), I of Palestinians. To bring peace, we have spend a lot of time monitoring and updating to understand that the past, present and our social media page. We try and present House in Israel Destroyed by Hamas Rocket Continued on Page 20 20 Opinions Tuesday, August 31, 2021 MassChallenge Israel: Where YU and Startup Nation Collide

By Naftali Shavelson on a fundraising roadshow in New York and consider building new lives for themselves traditional grading and examination. Boston. Triumphant founders and ecstatic in the Jewish State. Fundamentally, YU would be able to fur- I woke up the morning of my flight, pass- co-founders wept over their glimmering To me, this geopolitical crucible repre- ther actualize its core Zionist values, bringing port ready and headphones charged, to a text crystal trophies and even brighter prospects, sents a perfect opportunity for YU to launch the next generation of world Jewry to its that my trip was cancelled. For the second the whirring of the light rail providing a sort a more permanent version of our summer- historic homeland and fostering bilateral time. I had signed on for the inaugural sea- of abstract commentary off in the distance. long internship program. Repackaged as flourishing in terms of physical safety, eco- son of YU MassChallenge Israel, a summer I loved the work from beginning to end, a YU semester abroad, the initiative could nomic development and spiritual growth. internship program run by YU in partnership *** with the eponymous startup accelerator, Morning following the MassChallenge but our flight kept getting delayed due to Fundamentally, YU would be able to further actualize its core finale was bright and quiet, with a slight a COVID-related visa backlog at the Israeli breeze. We spent it deconstructing –– taking Ministry of the Interior. Somewhat disheart- Zionist values, bringing the next generation of world Jewry to its apart tables and lugging their components ened, I re-unpacked my suitcase. historic homeland and fostering bilateral flourishing in terms of into storage, organizing and itemizing un- Two days later, though, the daybreak text claimed notebooks and party favors, unty- read “WE ARE ON!” shadowed by no fewer physical safety, economic development and spiritual growth. ing flags and pennants from the building’s than 14 Israeli flag emoji. And the following exterior walls and watching them flutter afternoon, jet-lagged and bleary-eyed, I and softly to the ground. As I worked, primeval my fellow interns tumbled out of a creaking but the extracurricular experience was see students take Brand Management on dust from the Shaarei Tzedek cellars mixed minibus in the middle of YU’s suburban similarly impressive. At YU’s campus on Mondays… and go to work at local start- on my palms with nascent dew that had col- Jerusalem campus. Duvdevani Street, we enjoyed an open Beit ups on Tuesdays to put their coursework lected over the banners left out overnight. It was worth the wait. I spent the Midrash and numerous shiurim by figures into practice for actual brands. A longer- It reminded me of the riotous surrealism of next two months at the Israel branch of from inside and outside the YU community. term partnership with MassChallenge and tackling tomorrow’s challenges in the capital MassChallenge, a global zero-equity accel- Once a week, the ten of us would board that its alumni could provide a steady stream of Jewish yesteryear. The latest in artificial erator which provides Israeli and interna- same creaky minibus to the headquarters of of relevant employment options in diverse intelligence coming alive a short walk from tional early-stage companies the resources, an Israeli high tech company, where we met sectors. Classes could, at least initially, be where King David encountered Aravnah training and connections they need to thrive researchers and executives who shared their a mix of virtual and in-person to maximize the farmer, negotiated to buy his threshing in the modern business world. In my specific stories and introduced us to the pioneer- the university’s resources across New York floor and built upon it an altar to the God role, I helped build links between entrepre- ing projects undertaken by their respective and Jerusalem. Employee performance met- of his forefathers. neurs and corporate partners in an effort organizations. And on the rides there and rics at the internships could complement to keep our corner of the Israeli innovation back, we got to know each other too, form- machine running as smoothly as possible. ing and solidifying friendships sure to last Two other interns and I worked directly at well beyond the conclusion of the program. MassChallenge, and half a dozen others were Such a positive summer experience got us paired with various startups that had gradu- thinking that YU could and should facilitate ated from its accelerator in years prior. Our footholds for its students in Israel in more work experience, despite being stuffed with serious ways. And the need could not be hours of cold calls and Excel spreadsheets, more pressing. Key events over the past was often exciting and always eye-opening, few years have accelerated certain social exposing us to fascinating and unexpected trends that have been bubbling below the aspects of Israeli business culture. (The de- surface of Information Age society for quite gree to which projects are equitable and some time. The pandemic has snowballed collaborative has no parallel on Madison an embrace of remote and hybrid work, and Avenue or Wall Street. Nor, of course, do the resulting job insecurity especially among sandals people wear to the office.) young people has solidified shifts away from The summer seemed to end as abruptly the liberal arts and toward concrete voca- as it began. On the evening of July 26th, tional training, especially in tech-related guests filtered into the courtyard of the fields. Unease with standardized testing and MassChallenge Israel headquarters, housed traditional grading has led academic insti- in the old Shaarei Tzedek building on tutions to move away from or completely Street. String lights blinked on, casting a abandon such touchstones. Very recently, rich glow on the inventors, investors and stock market volatility and unprecedented innovators milling about the outdoor ven- access to equities markets has exposed Gen. ue. A few taps on the mic indicated that Z to retail investing and the corporate culture the keynote was about to begin. Seats were it brings with it. Closer to home, political taken, conversations halted. Against a developments across the globe have shocked purple Jerusalem sky, judges announced diaspora Jewry out of complacency in the The Old Shaarei Tzedek building on Jaffa Street, WIKIMEDIA COMMONS the nine winners of the 2021 accelerator face of rising antisemitism, and driven re- where MassChallenge Israel’s offices are located cohort, selected from the class of 42 to go cord numbers of young Western Jews to HAMAS ROCKETS Continued from Page 19 future of Israelis and Palestinians are ir- world, Israel would be a state reminiscent is extremely relevant when it comes to the change my opinion that there is a great and revocably intertwined. There is no future of the Kingdom of Judea, flourishing as it conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, powerful need for our role in the larger con- or self-determination of one group without did under the rule of King David, that is not and knowing that while I will defend Israel’s versation to change. the other. the reality. Israel is a vibrant, multicultural right to exist for as long as I live, I will learn We are Jews. Israel is our home. We must As much as people would like to pretend and multireligious country. It is the only as much as I can to make sure my defense protect and defend that home, whether on- that the existence of the other is an impass- safe place for LGBTQ people in the Middle is rooted in truth. line or in person. But again, our defense able barrier for their respective statehoods, East, relative to countries like Iran, where That is why I ask anyone who has social has to be rooted in truth to be effective. To that is a false pipe dream that will frankly 20-year-old Ali Fazeli Monfared was killed in media, to take a moment and engage people defend our nation in person and online, we bring no one closer to peace. However, the an “honor killing” for being gay. For the most in dialogue. I find it ironic when comments have to know what lies beyond sparkling pro- importance of criticizing Israel CANNOT part, all citizens of Israel enjoy equal rights. are limited on a #FreePalestine post by Bella paganda. Take a moment, do some research be used as a justification for calling thinly- In fact, the Israeli Supreme Court, which Hadid. How can we move towards peace and arm yourself with facts to articulate for veiled antisemitism criticism of Israel (again, is adjudicating the Sheik Jarrah case, has without a free and open dialogue? the State of Israel. Sharaknsky’s 3Ds). a sitting Arab justice, George Karra. How I feel similarly anytime I hear some- I wish peace, safety and prosperity for all This is why I mourn the death of Yehuda many Arab countries have a sitting Jewish one in our communities wish death upon the people of Israel, and I hope this conflict Guetta, a 19-year-old student who died after justice on their supreme court? How many Palestinians. The Zionist community will comes to a speedy end. a drive-by shooting last week, and the three even have a supreme court? have growing pains. I myself am experienc- Ki Beiti Beit Tefilah YiKareh LiKol other yet unnamed victims of the rocket On a deeply emotional level, I am enraged ing those pains as my perspective on the HaAmim. [My House will be known as the attacks. But I also mourn the deaths of the and disturbed by the antisemitism and mis- conflict grows and becomes more nuanced house of prayer for all.] Palestinian children. I mourn the death of information perpetuated by influencers on with each new voice I listen to. However, Hiney Lo Yanom viLo Yishan Shomer 16-year-old Said Odeh, who was a civilian social media. Presenting one side of a conflict we cannot become enraged at one-sided Yisrael [Behold, the guardian of Israel nei- killed in clashes with the IDF. Life is sacred. does no one justice. And that goes for both social media posts and call for a two-sided ther slumbers nor sleeps]. I blame Hamas entirely for these deaths. people presenting just the Israeli side of the perspective, while only listening to Israeli Without Hamas violence, there would be no conversation and people presenting just the voices ourselves. A valid defense of our belief Editor’s Note: Some Instagram accounts reason for retaliation. No reason for more Palestinian side. must be rooted in a multifaceted perspective. to follow for more information are @ bloodshed. This isn’t me pointing fingers or “fence- Again, I want to emphasize that I am a henmazzig, @rudy_israel, @evebarlow, While some may think that in an ideal sitting.” This is understanding that nuance staunch and proud Zionist. But that doesn’t @ajewishresistance and @jewishunpacked Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Opinions 21 A Call for Hebrew

By Rabbi Yitzchak Blau the problem. Many practically motivated greatest Torah teachers of our time teach Jewry. This should be good enough cause students today eschew humanities in favor predominantly or exclusively in lashon for learning to speak Hebrew. My parents and mother-in-law can all of business, computers and . hakodesh. One who cannot understand Our three arguments for Hebrew do not carry out basic Hebrew conversations even The New York Board of Regents dropped such shiurim loses out on the deep shiurim all lead to the same conclusion; the first mo- though none of them studied in Israel for the Regents exams for all foreign languages. klaliem of Rav Re’em Hacohen, the insightful tivates study of biblical Hebrew whereas the a year. Yeshiva education of the 1940s and latter two emphasize contemporary Hebrew. 1950s included enough Ivrit b’ivrit in el- Nonetheless, the two goals work together. ementary school (Etz Chaim in Brooklyn, Our Jewish world translates almost all Torah into English. Despite language’s development over time, The Yeshiva of Crown Heights) and in high the two Hebrew discourses exhibit consid- school (Central) for them to acquire this skill. However, not studying texts in the Hebrew original erable overlap. It is no accident that Israeli With the exceptions of Yeshivah of Flatbush impoverishes our . students read scripture and rabbinic sources and Ben Porat Yosef, I do not know if any much more easily than their counterparts other Orthodox American schools could from abroad. make that claim today. The idea that an educated person knows Tanakh readings of Prof. Yoni Grossman and President Ari Berman deserves credit At a later stage, American students something about Greek, Latin and Hebrew the profound thought of Rav Yuval Sherlow. for stressing Israel as a value more than learned modern Hebrew during their year appears to us a quaint idea from a distant Furthermore, certain seforim such as Rav any of his predecessors. Unfortunately, in Israel. In the 1970s, almost all the options past. Hutner’s “Pachad Yitzchak” become much the university’s recent decision to do away for boys (BMT was an exception) were I propose that the Jewish community more comprehensible if one knows modern with Hebrew in person courses flies in the yeshivot with Israeli peers and instructors needs to fight this trend when it comes to Hebrew. Surely, we would like to provide our face of this emphasis. In almost all fields with intensive exposure to Hebrew. Two Hebrew skills. Our Jewish world translates students with access to this world of Torah. of education, dialogue between the teacher things have changed since then. One, many almost all Torah into English. However, not Finally, study of Hebrew reflects our and students plays an important part of the exclusively American programs opened (in- studying texts in the Hebrew original im- strong identification with the Zionist project. pedagogic program, all the more so when cluding one at which I am a rosh yeshiva). poverishes our Torah study. Someone who Language is identity; note how individuals learning how to speak a different language. Secondly, even in the hesder yeshivot, reads Tanakh in translation and juxtaposes who want to be more yeshivish increase As a result of this decision, YU has already programs for foreign students have grown the nakedness of Adam and Chava with the their employment of Yiddish phrases. To be lost two excellent Hebrew professors. It is increasingly separate from their Israeli coun- cleverness of the snake misses the Hebrew sure, a smattering of phrases does not equal hard not to see this as reflecting indifference terparts with many shiurim designated ex- word play (Bereishit 2:25-3:1). A reader who fluency, but they both reflect the powerful as to the quality of the Hebrew language clusively for students from abroad. Thus, we hears Joseph complain about being put in connection between mode of discourse and program. It is equally hard to accept at face have the odd phenomenon of students who prison will not realize how the Hebrew word identity. Those who identify with Medinat value the claim that this has nothing to do spent two years at a hesder yeshiva and still “bor,” both pit and prison, allows Yosef to Yisrael should want to speak its language with financial savings. cannot speak Hebrew. simultaneously protest his brothers and and the ability to do so will also make mov- YU students: You can still overcome this I emphasize that, in other ways, Jewish Potiphar’s mistreatment of him (Bereishit ing there a more successful endeavor. We decision. You can begin with protesting and education has improved and that language 40:15). A translator who renders “kach na are the beneficiaries of the unprecedented calling for a return to regular or even en- achievement is not the only barometer of et birchati”as “please take my gift” loses the and amazing story of a people returning to hanced Hebrew instruction. If that proves success. At the same time, we should admit resonance of Yaakov returning the blessing its homeland after two millennia of exile. unsuccessful, you can work on Hebrew skills and confront the implications of not teaching to Eisav (Bereishit 33:11). Finally, simply Moreover, the successful forming of the state without the university’s help. Learn “Peninei Hebrew skills. knowing how nifal, hifil, and heh ha’yediah happened in the hour of greatest need, just ,” listen to Hebrew shiurim online These communal changes have been in work will make one a more competent reader after arguably the worst tragedy in Jewish and spend a summer in Israel in a Hebrew place for a while, but recent trends in the of every biblical chapter. . The state has led to the renewal of speaking environment. Hachi chashuv: Al broader , including the de- Knowledge of Hebrew impacts on Torah Orthodoxy, the rebuilding of Torah learning, tityaeshu vi’tilmidu et leshonenu hakadosh! valuing of language acquisition, exacerbate learning in another way as well. Many of the and the rescue of Russian and Ethiopian

Zysman Hall on Wilf Campus THE COMMENTATOR 22 Opinions Tuesday, August 31, 2021 From the President's Desk: SCWSC An Unprecedented Opportunity Pathways Shabbaton last semes- making all in attendance reflect on whether spectacular Welcome Back Week. Night By Talia Leitner ter. For those of you who are unfamiliar, they recognize all that YU has to offer. activities and trips to New York City at- tractions are also in the works. We look I am so excited to welcome all of you forward to celebrating Thanksgiving, to campus this semester! Like most things When we chose to come back to YU, we were choosing to invest Chanukah, Purim, Yom Ha’atzmaut and lately, this semester is “unprecedented” in much more together, but we especially that the vast majority of YU students have in our college experiences. Your time at YU is limited, so what is hope that you will come celebrate with us. never actually experienced campus life “as stopping you from making the most of it? As we enter a year that we pray will be usual.” Only those who began their time at “normal,” I ask that we reflect upon the YU prior to Spring 2020 will recall the fight positive experiences that we had over the to secure a spot on the elevator or waiting Mechina Pathways is a program for stu- Last semester, many of us were able to past year and a half. Instead of reverting in the never-ending line for the salad bar. dents who are new to Hebrew language return to campus thanks to the hard work campus culture back to the ways of pre- That being said, this gives us a special op- and textual studies. Students spoke of their of the administration, faculty and student COVID, let us create a new atmosphere portunity to reinvent campus life. Instead unique paths that led them to Stern, and council. Although there were many no- on campus. I can tell you from personal of focusing on reverting back to pre-COVID it was incredible hearing how much they ticeable differences, (the elevators were experience that the more involved you get routine, let us create a new atmosphere on each appreciated all that YU has to offer. strangely empty), it turned out to be an on campus, the more you will enjoy your ex- campus — one where students get involved For many of these women, this was their incredible year, largely due to the pres- perience at YU. Find a club that interests you and make a difference. first exposure to Jewish learning and be- ence of the community. Instead of rushing and apply for the board. Enhance campus I had the privilege of attending the ing a part of a greater Jewish community, out Thursday night, students stayed in for life by joining the Student Life Committee. Shabbat — yes, even the in-towners. Meals Show prospective students how much you became more intimate due to their limited care for YU by becoming a student ambas- capacity, and through these Shabbatot, sador. In whatever capacity, take advantage people formed strong connections with one of your college experience! another. When we chose to come back to YU, we were choosing to invest in our col- If you have any questions regarding cam- lege experiences. Your time at YU is limited, pus activities and how to get involved, so what is stopping you from making the feel free to contact Talia Leitner, SCWSC most of it? President, at [email protected] or the Student council has already started to Stern College for Women Student Council plan many events for the coming semester. at [email protected]. SCWSC The SCWSC logo We have spent the summer organizing a Rocking the Boat and Finding Yourself

them, the harder they pushed me away. We Israel, when I felt more alone but at the in. This was hard for me to learn during my By Ma’ayan Tzur were insulted right and left and were forced same time realized I should be old enough just-completed year in , where I to bite back our retorts. Contrary to what and independent enough to deal with things only felt responsible for myself, but even Camp blew in with a whirlwind of crazy. many might think, pre-teen burns really by myself. However, I slowly started to learn harder and more crucial at camp. At camp, Since it was my first time working there, I was also responsible for others, so I felt I I was surprised to find out that my pre- should at least be able to deal with my issues teen campers were full of attitude, had an I learned something which I hope will help me as I begin Stern — on my own. However, it dawned on me that impressive lexicon of profanity and were if I wanted to be able to help my campers struggling spiritually with tefillah, not dis- that even when someone is responsible for others, they still must when they asked for help, I had to be able similar to the rest of us. Each day brought look out for themselves and should not be embarrassed to seek to ask for help myself, and that was nothing new challenges. In addition to this, I spent to be ashamed of. In conclusion, while I had countless hours watching girls practice support. an intense camp experience, I am so happy their dances and songs and rehearsing their I had the opportunity to end up connecting play in the sauna of a theater, all activities with my campers and to learn about letting I loved, but as the counselor, needed to su- sting, possibly even more than adult ones. that requesting help should not diminish others in, a crucial life skill I hope I will be pervise instead of joining. My main activity However, even with all this, I really loved one’s sense of capability — in fact, it should able to bring with me as I start Stern. I really of comfort was boating, but, have no fear, camp. It was undeniably slightly crazy, but do the opposite. It shows that you are brave hope that Stern will become a home for me, one of my campers figured out a way to still I also learned integral lessons about disci- and strong and willing to do anything to and that the people I meet there will become rock the boat, quite literally. She decided to pline, about being sweet, about assuming succeed, even if it means opening yourself family, just like at camp. I got a lot out of wriggle in her canoe seat, so, for the entire the best of people but still being able to put up to others and thereby making yourself my time in camp, and I hope that anyone ride, we sat in fear of capsizing. (I do have my foot down. In addition, I learned there more vulnerable. The truth is, we really need reading this can glean just a little from my to admit, despite feigning annoyance, that are some quandaries that one never quite each other. We just have to let other people incredible summer experience too. that “roller coaster” was really fun.) outgrows; a lot of the internal dilemmas my There were girls who walked off by them- campers were going through, like questions selves time after time forcing us to begrudg- of identity and figuring out who they each ingly trail after them, even though we would really are, I am still working through. I real- have been just fine with not having to deal ized that it’s just an ongoing discussion one with them for a little while. All our attempts always needs to have with oneself. I also at words of discipline fell on deaf ears. No learned how to love people when it’s hard, one can count the amount of times we made and that it’s OK to get frustrated sometimes. the trek to the infirmary for serious, urgent In addition, I learned something which ailments, such as itchy bites, slightly sore I hope will help me as I begin Stern — that throats, the smallest offset of a headache and even when someone is responsible for oth- imperceptibly injured ankles, with whiny ers, they still must look out for themselves girls in tow. We were in a constant scaven- and should not be embarrassed to seek ger hunt for water bottles and bags, which support. Clearly, working at camp was not girls forgot more often than not. We had to exactly a walk in the park. However, that haggle with them every day to do their basic did not in any way mean I was alone. I had chores so that the bunk would look like a my amazing co-counselor alongside me, slightly neater pigsty. You’d think that with and we held each other up as the other was everything we had to deal with, the girls falling down. I had my other counselor and would constantly be singing our praises, staff friends, who were there to commiserate right? But … no. Not only was our hard work and lend a hand. The upper staff and camp not so appreciated, but girls consistently mom were there to aid whenever I wished. complained. Any time a girl was upset, we, Everyone was there for me, I just had to miraculously, were the root of the problem. learn to ask. Sometimes, with some campers, it seemed Asking for assistance was something that the more I tried to become close with difficult that I frequently encountered in A typical summer camp canoe WIKIMEDIA COMMONS Tuesday, August 31, 2021 Business 23 ' New Opening

(Chessbrah) and Alexandra and Andrea ing $1,750,000 and the Meltwater Cham- champs tournament, Pogchamps 3 offered By Benjy Spanjer Botez (BotezLive). These Twitch streamers pions Chess Tour which has total cash $100,000 worth of prize money with an- may even earn their livelihoods through prizes amounting to $1,500,000 for the ten other $100,000 matched in donations to In late October of 2020 the TV series, Twitch streaming, such Alexandra Botez tournaments that comprise the tour. non-profit organizations. Pogchamps 3 The Queen’s came out on Netf- was also the most watched tournament of lix. This popular mini-series was much the three garnering 375,000 viewers for more than just a fun watch, it also piqued Chess has come back to the forefront of modern life. the first match alone. people’s interest in the United States with With chess ballooning in so many areas, sales of chess boards rising over 87% and the question remains, will the game con- book sales rising by 603% in the three who made upward of $100,000 this past Pogchamps is a tournament that has tinue to undergo rapid expansion, or will weeks following the series’ launch. Beyond year and Levy Rozman earning his living occurred three times so far which features it die down once the pandemic ends and that, online formats for playing chess such with a combination of Twitch and Youtube famous internet personalities such as ac- people begin spending less time at home? as Chess.com, Internet Chess Club and streaming. tor Rainn Wilson, poker player Daniel If the chess community continues reinvig- Chess24, which all require subscriptions Chess streaming isn’t the only way tal- Negreanu, popular Twitch streamer xQc orating their tournaments with celebrities to play on, saw membership increase by ented players can make money. Current and Youtuber MrBeast. These popular and makes games more watchable with in- 40% when they combined their individual chess world champion Magnus Carlsen figures get trained by famous chess play- teresting streamers and commentators, it increases together. owns a chess teaching service called Play ers such as , Levy Roz- seems as though the game’s popularity will Chess has also taken over Twitch Magnus. Five-time US national champion man, IM (International Master, the second continue to gain traction. If the best way streaming. Twitch.tv is the most popular Hikaru Nakamura has a sponsorship from highest title achievable by a chess player) to predict how something will perform is internet streaming platform and boasts Red Bull, and former world champion Gar- Anna Rudolph, and Alexandra Botez. The based on past performance, then chess’ popular chess streamers such as Ameri- ry Kasparov came out with his own chess first Pogchamps had a total of $50,000 nearly 1,600-year-old history seems prom- cans Hikaru Nakamura, Levy Rozman MasterClass. Many chess tournaments of prize money on the line and was the ising. (GothamChess) and Eric Rosen, as well as also have cash prizes such as the Grand first chess stream on Twitch to ever break Canadians Eric Hansen, Aman Hableton Chess Tour which boasts cash prizes total- 1 million unique views. The third Pog-

Shopping in the Office

panies, the locations will be managed and leveraged Saks ’s legacy by are some of the retailers who permanent- By Aliza Leichter staffed by WeWork; in exchange, HBC will affirming the department store’s commit- ly closed their stores after clothing sales not charge rent and WeWork receives a cut ment to “elevated and highly personalized plunged by 89 percent; in contrast, online Luxury department store Saks Fifth Av- of the revenue. service,” and noting that SaksWorks would sales increased about 21 percent. enue, owned by Hudson’s Bay Company Similar to women-focused coworking extend the company’s nearly century-long Commenting on the partnership, (HBC), collaborated with coworking real club The Wing, SaksWorks locations will legacy. SaksWorks President Amy Nelson, found- estate company WeWork in their most re- include amenities designed to incentivize The rise of ecommerce amidst the pan- er and former CEO of women’s network cent venture: SaksWorks. and startup The Riveter, stated that the Slated to launch in September 2021, Similar to women-focused coworking club The Wing, goal is to “broaden our offerings to rede- the joint venture will transform Saks lo- fine the idea of the classic rec center into cations across the New York tri-state area SaksWorks locations will include amenities designed to modern community hubs.” Although capi- into shared workspaces for suburban part talizing on the remaining Saks Fifth Av- time and full time employees working re- incentivize membership. enue square footage allows the retailer to motely as a result of the COVID-19 pan- remain temporarily profitable, it is unclear demic. HBC’s statement announced plans membership. While The Wing’s Bryant demic permanently altered the retail land- whether the department store’s success to expand locations across North America Park location in New York City has its own scape. Over 12,000 stores were forced to will be based entirely on an employee’s de- following the opening of SaksWorks’ inau- in-house cafe and bar, the Perch, and se- close after being deemed non-essential and cision to continue to work remotely. gural locations. An all-access pass with a lect locations feature childcare spaces and shuttered for weeks. According to an anal- $299 monthly membership fee will allow babysitting services, SaksWorks will have ysis by S&P Global Market Intelligence, both SaksWorks and WeWork members recreational options such as retail, fitness 630 retailers declared bankruptcy in 2020, to visit urban and suburban workspaces. studios and event programming. HBC’s ex- the highest number recorded in a decade. In a mutually beneficial deal for both com- ecutive chairman and CEO, Richard Baker, Macy’s, Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom

PIXABAY WeWork Sign 24 Tuesday, August 31, 2021

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