THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF STERN COLLEGE FOR WOMEN AND SY SYMS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS The Yeshiva University OBSERVER WWW.YUOBSERVER.ORG VOLUME LXIII ISSUE II October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778

Dr. Berman Announces First Improvements in Faculty Compensation in Eight Years Mindy Schwartz Editor - in - Chief

Dr. Berman acknowledged this himself in his statement, noting that “these steps are, of course, only minor improvements, and I am deeply aware that more needs to be done in the future.” financial crisis. Due to a high risk investment strategy, YU’s investments lost about $525 million in value between 2007 and 2009. At the same time, the university was also running an annual deficit of over $100 million. The benefit cuts and wage freeze were one of many measures taken to deal with the university’s financial crisis. While the wage freeze was only meant to last two years, the university’s In early August President Dr. Berman sent an email to the one of the benchmarks set in the university’s Strategic Plan for finances failed to turn around and–other than a 2% increase entire faculty of Yeshiva University announcing–for the first 2016-2020, released in 2016, and chaired by Vice President in 2013–it has continued for the past eight years. It should time in eight years–increases in faculty salary and benefits. Josh Joseph. One of the plan’s “strategic imperatives” was to also be noted that given the rate of inflation, a salary freeze According to his statement, a “modest allocation of funds” has “develop a plan with benchmarks by summer 2017 to improve in one year can actually more closely resemble a salary cut in been set aside for merit-based salary increases starting in Fall faculty compensation (salary and benefits) that meets the the next. Retirement benefits were similarly affected by the 2017 and, as of September 1, 2017, the retirement plan match collective goals of the University.” school’s financial meltdown. The matching benefits for the for employees with salaries above $62,000 has been increased Dr. Berman’s announcement comes after several years of 403b retirement plan, in which the employer matches a certain from 2% to 3%. benefit cuts and a wage freeze enacted in response tothe percentage of the money that the employee places towards his Dr. Berman’s August 2017 announcement coincides with university’s critical financial situation following the 2008 or her retirement fund, were cut from 7% to just 2%, far below cont’d p 3

Rabbi Kanarfogel Travels to Mainz Stern Students Respond to the For World Heritage Site Application “Build a Stern Girl” BuzzFeed Quiz Leah Klahr & Shira Krinsky Leah Klahr Features Editor & Staff Writer Features Editor

On September 11, under the auspices a dozen members, including a majority of Last Monday night in the Uptown YU Girl”, and then calculated “How Old You’ll and invitation of the Prime Minister of the professors from European universities, library Shifra Lindenberg, Syms ‘20, and a Be When You Get Married”. Rhineland, Rabbi Dr. Ephraim Kanarfogel, and two professors from the Hebrew friend who requested to remain anonymous, While some Stern students expressed E. Billi Ivry University Professor of Jewish University of Jerusalem. Rabbi Kanarfogel created the BuzzFeed quiz that has made frustration with the negative stereotypes History, Literature, and Law at Yeshiva is the only American member of the group. waves in YU and the broader Jewish about Stern women emphasized in the quiz, University, traveled to Mainz to participate The committee is working together with community. The quiz, called “Build a Stern others found it funny and astute. Lindenberg in an academic conference on the Jewish colleagues from Western Germany on this Girl and We’ll Tell You How Old You’ll reported to The Observer, “That night when communities of Speyer, Worms, and project. Be When You Get Married”, has sparked a we posted the quiz, I kept hearing people Mainz, known as the kehillot Shu”m. Rabbi Kanarfogel told The Observer that wide range of responses, including Tablet’s talk about the quiz, mostly describing it The Rhineland region has been invited his role at the conference was “to provide article “Bigoted BuzzFeed Quiz Mocks as hilarious, accurate, and even ‘dope’. to apply to UNESCO for designation as a examples and an overview of leading Orthodox Women”. The quiz was taken Everyone on the shuttle that night was raving World Heritage Site, and the conference rabbinic scholars from the Rhineland down by BuzzFeed moderators on Sunday about it… I’ve surprisingly received lots of was held by an international academic area—aside from the best-known ones such morning due to reports of offensive content. positive feedback about the quiz. In fact, I’m committee of professors who are working as Rabbeinu Gershom and Rashi (who Among the quiz questions were “Pick a pretty sure I got more positive feedback than to highlight and present the cultural studied in both Mainz and Worms), and to Seminary Your Stern Girl Went to”, “Pick negative feedback.” heritage and importance of this region highlight their important contributions.” a Graduate School for Your Stern Girl to Lindenberg explained that that quiz was for the UNESCO application. In April of Rabbi Kanarfogel explained, “Some of the Drop Out of”, “Pick a Maternity Shirt for intended as entertainment and satire, as well 2016, Rabbi Kanarfogel was appointed most important—but not as well-known— your Stern Girl to Wear”, and “Pick a Job as content for her Facebook page “Jewish to the committee, and has been described Ba’alei ha-Tosafot flourished in this for Your Stern Girl to Have After College”. Shifposting”. “I didn’t think the quiz would by the Prime Minister and Ministry of region during the recovery period after The choices to choose from highlighted get this much response and attention,” Education of Rhineland-Pfalz as “the the First Crusade…during our academic classic stereotypes about Stern students; for Lindenberg said. “I’ve made other Jewish- leading authority in the world today on discussions, we have noted that in terms example, the only job choices offered in the themed BuzzFeed quizzes that received less Jewish intellectual history during the High of advanced Talmudic study, halakha, and “Pick a Job for Your Stern Girl” question attention than this one, like my “We Know Middle Ages, including the many rabbinic piyut, it is fair to say that the Rhineland were “stay at home mom”, “working at if You’re Not Shomer Negia” quiz, and “We scholars of Sh”um and the Rhineland and represents a kind of medieval Jewish a preschool”,“working at an elementary Know What Yeshiva Your Bashert is in”’, their place within the history of Jewish ‘cradle of civilization’ that impacts Jewish school”, and “nurse”. The quiz ended with she added. learning and thought throughout the law and life to this very day.” “Pick an Engagement Ring for Your Stern Once the quiz was posted in the “Stern: In world.” The committee consists of about However, Rabbi Kanarfogel explained

cont’d p 8 cont’d p 8 Editorial October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 2

The Yeshiva University What Girl Scouts and Stern College Have in Common Observer Miriam Pearl Klahr Managing Editor Editor-in-Chief Mindy Schwartz

Managing Editor Miriam Pearl Klahr

News Editor Sarah Casteel

Features Editor Leah Klahr

Opinions Editor I recently read a New York Times op-ed titled “Girls, Don’t Become Boy workplace, they will never occupy identical roles in their communities. Kira Paley Scouts.” It was a response to Boy Scouts of America’s October 11th Thus, there is an added benefit to the women’s only status of Stern announcement to accept women and allow them to eventually earn the College. It allows for a certain honesty in experience through providing organization’s highest ranking of Eagle Scout. The article argues that Orthodox women with their own school, where they are forced to confront Web & Social while this decision may seem progressive, it is really just a business and contemplate the dichotomy of being identical to men in many aspects Media Manager strategy. Boy Scouts of America has been struggling with a decreasing of their lives, but not in others. enrollment and multiple sex scandals that have tainted its reputation. Shira Feen Welcoming girls is an easy way to both improve its public image and its Moreover, Stern College’s single sex status does not only provide an numbers. And what makes this business decision unprogressive is the empowering and thought-provoking experience to its students. It also potential harm it will cause to the Girl Scouts. comes to honor a cultural sensitivity. For Layout Editor religious reasons, many students of Stern Shira Perton Many Americans think that the Boy Scouts College are uncomfortable in co-educational and Girls Scouts are similar organizations Reading about the environments. However, other students find that simply cater to different genders, but educational benefit and enjoyment from Business in actuality they have two very different threat that a co-ed such learning spaces. Through functioning Managers visions. The mission of Boy Scouts is to Boys Scouts poses to as a women’s only college with co-ed clubs Sabrina Benmoha “prepare young people to make ethical and and activities, Stern College balances both Sarah Porgess moral choices” while that of Girls Scouts needs. In this manner it not only exposes its is to “build girls of courage, confidence, Girl Scouts helped me students to a diverse group of peers in terms and character who make the world a better of differences in religiosity; it also pushes its place.” These varying missions translate realize that my excite- women to respect each other’s religious and into emphasizing different values. Only cultural sensitivities. Girl Scouts teaches social justice, diversity ment partially reflects and inclusion. While Boys Scouts has many a failure to recognize There is far more that differentiates Stern religious ties and anti-atheist policies, Girl College. Its dual curriculum allows students Scouts is secular and allows girls to replace the many unique to explore their heritage and identity while the words “to serve God” in their oath, with simultaneously studying the humanities or any words of their choice. According to the aspects of Stern sciences. The school’s location in midtown article’s author, Kate Tuttle, Girls Scouts is offers its student easy access to some of the a unique organization that has empowered College. world’s best theaters, nightlife, and museums. many of today’s women, and “there’s nothing The faculty is overwhelmingly caring, and progressive about undercutting a venerable the small class sizes allow students to forge organization that serves girls.” relationships with their teachers. Of course, all this does not preclude the many new and exciting As I read the article, I wasn’t sure if I was convinced, that girls therefore opportunities that a merger between YC and Stern College would shouldn’t even have the option of joining Boy Scouts if they wish to do create. Yet, it is still important to celebrate Stern College for Women in so. However, I was definitively reminded of multiple conversations I whatever form it does exist. And in my opinion, The Observer is the place have had, and overheard, concerning Stern College for Women. The where this celebration occurs most. discussion always bemoans the fact the it is a single sex institution and dreams of how wonderful the YU undergraduate experience would be In the pages of The Observer, one can read about the school’s newest if the men and women’s school would merge into one. This new school faculty members, policy changes, expanding departments, housing would of course be built at a remote location, allowing for a spacious initiatives, or cultural events that are taking place near the Beren college campus. I always get excited by this idea, but reading about the campus. Each month in our “From the President’s Desk” column, Founded by the women of threat that a co-ed Boys Scouts poses to Girl Scouts, helped me realize we highlight the president of a club or council so that students can Yeshiva University’s Stern that my excitement partially reflects a failure to recognize the many better know their student leaders. The Observer offers every student College in 1958, The Observer unique aspects of Stern College. an opportunity to meet the diverse women of Stern College through is the official newspaper opinion articles about school policies they disagree with, sexism at YU, representing the student body A women’s only college is often considered a sanctuary of sorts, free of the impactful books, orthodox feminism, or their reactions to world events. of Stern College and Sy Syms typical “glass ceiling” women constantly face. Studies have shown how This allows readers of The Observer to gain a more intimate and deeper School of Business. The Observer students of women’s colleges have higher levels of self-esteem, feel more understanding of the school and their community. It is a celebration of is an independent student comfortable speaking in class, hold more leadership roles, and continue the school through news briefs, feature articles and opinion pieces filled publication, self-funded, and to receive more graduate degrees than their peers at co-ed institutions. with pride or constructive critique. published on a monthly basis The underlying philosophy is that such schools will also eventually help throughout the academic women take full advantage of the equality that is achievable when they As with the Girls Scouts, it is important to recognize the individuality year. Views expressed in The reenter the co-ed work world. As a student of Stern College, I believe that of our own women’s only environment. So, join us is celebrating Stern Observer are those of the writers all these advantages are presented to our school’s students. College for Women through sharing your criticisms or you praise, and do not necessarily reflect investigating a policy you find unusual, interviewing a faculty member those of the editorial board Yet, as an Orthodox Jewish school, Stern College’s single sex status you love, or just reading The Observer to acquire a deeper understanding or the student body, faculty, also plays another role. Orthodox Jewish men and women are different of what makes our school so unique. and administration of Yeshiva according to halakha. While they may hold the same position in the University. All Observer content is copyrighted and may not be reprinted without permission. Page 3 • October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 News

Dr. Berman Announces First Improvements in Faculty Compensation in Eight Years Mindy Schwartz Editor - in - Chief cont’d from front page

the average for private universities. its morale. In a 2013 survey on retirement administered by the On Dr. Berman’s new announcement, Co-Chair of the Faculty While Moody’s still rates YU’s bonds with a B3 junk rating, Faculty Council, 88% of faculty responded that they would Council for 2017-2018 and Finance professor at Sy Syms, Dr. in February 2017 the credit rating service changed YU’s need to return to the pre-benefits cut rate of 7% matching to S. Abraham Ravid was also quick to note that “the university outlook from “negative” to “stable” for the first time since retirement funds in order to retire on time. Because of the is still facing significant challenges” in light of the “years of 2009. Although the University has by no means solved all of impact of the cuts, one respondent even wrote anonymously stagnant pay, benefit reductions, and departures of some well its financial problems, the change certainly reflects a positive that “I have no intention of retiring until I can no longer respected professors.” steps towards its financial recovery, which could possibly have physically do my job.” The Council concluded that “the Still Ravid took a more hopeful stance, telling The Observer helped enable Dr. Berman’s August announcement. principal problem is not that faculty members do not know they that he “welcome[s] President Berman’s announcement” as Of course the “modest” merit-based raises and 1% increase need to save for retirement: it is that they are financially unable a “very positive step,” and that he even sent the president a in retirement matching–still 4% lower than it was before the to save enough.” congratulatory email on behalf of the council right after the new crisis–are only small steps in rectifying the problem. Chair of the Faculty Council in 2016-2017 and professor at measures were announced. “I am looking forward to working Dr. Berman acknowledged this himself in his statement, noting Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Dr. Charles Swencionis, with him in bringing YU back to the table with the best faith that “these steps are, of course, only minor improvements, and told The Observer in May of last year–before these new measures based institutions in the country,” he said. I am deeply aware that more needs to be done in the future.” were announced–that the faculty is “extremely frustrated” with Dean of Undergraduate Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Dr. But while he tried to emphasize that his announcement the administration’s handling of the compensation situation. Karen Bacon, agreed that “if the goal is to bring us back to should “serve as an important signal” that the “well-being “We certainly feel unappreciated,” he said, “morale is low.” where we were [before the crisis]– in our retirement matching [of faculty] is critical for the future of YU,” The Observer was Dr. Matthew Miller, an English professor at Stern College, rate and yearly salary increase–then this [announcement] is not unable to receive any information on benchmarks for future echoed a similar sentiment on faculty morale when speaking achieving that goal.” But she pointed out that it is “movement improvements from the President or his office, beyond the to The Observer about the past wage freeze and cuts as well as in the right direction.” statement “YU continues to work on this issue.” Dr. Berman’s announcement. “The wage freeze and benefit Dr. Bacon said that she is eager to return to merit based salary In fact, the Strategic Plan has not been updated to account for cuts have taken a heavy toll on overall morale and enthusiasm increases “because our staff is very meritorious.” According Dr. Berman’s latest announcement, so that the administration for myself and colleagues I know. Like many, I experience to Dr. Bacon, merit based increases are determined based on currently has no stated goal or commitment for when the next considerable financial anxiety.” student evaluations, syllabus evaluations, use of innovative improvements in faculty compensation will be made. Still, he stressed that he “love[s] working at Stern” and that teaching methods, research productivity, grant earning, and While Dr. Berman ended his message by assuring that, “Over he “work[s] hard to keep these feelings separate from [his] participation in the University and its programs. “When I was this summer, we are working hard to plan for the inaugural teaching and endeavor[s] to create productive and upbeat responsible for making recommendations for raises I was very year of this new administration during which we will lay the classes.” confident [with my recommendations] because the faculty is groundwork for a multiyear plan of growth and success,” no Miller appreciates Rabbi Berman’s indication “that he wishes doing a wonderful job,” she said. such plan with specifics on future improvements to faculty to increase support where he can” and the need, “given [the] While Dr. Berman’s announcement is of course a welcome compensation has been made public. financial problems,” that ”improvements must be gradual.” improvement from the cuts and stagnation of previous years, Without clear cut commitments going forward, the assertion In light of these factors, Miller called the announcement “a the fact that there is no clear goal moving forward may be a cause that the new changes should serve as an “important signal” welcome first step.” for concern. If the administration fails to create and commit to that improving faculty compensation is a priority for the new But he also emphasized that in terms of the compensation cuts, future benchmarks of improvement it may be difficult to regain administration, may be hard to swallow for a faculty that has “more will need to be done to create the career incentives the trust of the faculty and raise faculty morale. Still, by starting faced significant financial belt-tightening and administrative necessary to motivate the quality of research and publication the first full year of his tenure with such an announcement, ambivalence over the past years. required for Yeshiva University to compete with its peers and Rabbi Berman has set a positive and welcome tone, indicating Indeed the financial stresses have left a mark on the faculty and retain its reputation as a research institution.” that this issue may–finally–be taken seriously.

New Engineering Program Allows Undergraduates to

FinishAilin Elyasi their Degrees in Israel Staff Writer YU has launched a joint program with Tel Aviv University’s Rein, vice president of Tel Aviv University. TAU has the same education geared toward the modern workforce. As a zionist (referred to as TAU), a world renowned School of Electrical mission of expanding its global reach as Yeshiva University, university with a zionist student population, the institution of Engineering that allows future engineers to complete their and its partnering with YU is the perfect way to help both YU supports Israel with this program. All the while, YU also undergraduate degree in Israel. Dr. Edward Belinder, Director academic institutions achieve their goal. Dr. Edward Berlinder provides its students with the opportunity to build important of Science Management and a Clinical Professor of Physics at adds, “As a World-Class University, [TAU is] also an excellent work connections in the state without sacrificing a Torah Yeshiva University, explains that the program is meant to appeal intellectual match for our University and its students.” education in their early undergraduate years. to “students who wish to work in Israel… [It is] an opportunity to build a professional network during their Undergraduate years that will allow them to move more seamlessly into the Israeli job market.” “As a World-Class In order to gain acceptance to TAU, students much complete the engineering prerequisites at YU over the course of at least University, [TAU two years. Then, students will pack their bags and head to all- English classes at TAU. President Dr. Ari Berman introduced is] also an excellent the new program at his Investiture as a move for the “YU of tomorrow.” Explaining the program, Berman states, “this intellectual match for partnership reflects YU’s commitment to serving as a portal to the wider world. We are a globally focused institution with our University and its much to teach to, and much to learn from, the broader world of humanity. Partnering with a renowned institution in one Instudents.” addition, the program creates a seamless transition into the of the world’s premier start-up nations, is a step in the right Israeli workforce for the aliyah-minded student with its two direction for the YU of tomorrow. In addition, this reflects semester internship requirement. “Our unique program will our commitment to collaboration with Israeli institutions and allow students to begin their undergraduate studies in a warm, the centrality of the State of Israel to YU’s values.” Students Torah environment and help them make an easy transition entering the program will not only have access to TAU’s world to Israel to complete their degree. The program will also class staff, but also to a network of YU alumni all across the provide students with invaluable connections in the field of globe. engineering,” said Dr. Edward Berliner. “Instead of having to TAU was the ideal institution to partner with for a program of start from scratch after making aliyah, students can continue this kind because of its commitment to flexible growth. “Tel their studies and move seamlessly over to Tel Aviv University Aviv University constantly strives to expand its international and, by extension, to the Israeli workforce.” The two semester research ties by establishing joint degree programs with leading project ensures that students have the chance to form invaluable institutions. This new engineering program with Yeshiva connections in the engineering world. University will further expand our reach and set new standards The new program exemplifies YU’s dedication to serving for joint degree programming,” commented Professor Raanan its students and upholding its values of a Torah centered News October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 4

YU Celebrates Official Dedication of 185th Street Plaza Kira Paley Opinions Editor

On Tuesday afternoon, Yeshiva University administrators, faculty and students, as well as New York City government officials, gathered on the new 185th Street Plaza for the official dedication and ribbon-cutting ceremony. The plaza, which was completed in August, was under construction for the past year, is located on 185th Street between Amsterdam and Audubon Avenues, and provides members of the YU community and the Washington Heights community alike with a vehicle-free area to walk, congregate, and sit. The official dedication was emceed by Andrew Lauer, YU’s vice president for legal affairs, secretary and general counsel. Newly invested President Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman spoke first,

“We’re not celebrating students to congregate and relax, but it is a place for our entire Zach Sterman, Yeshiva Student Union president and YC ‘18, community to come.” spoke at the ceremony, representing the students who use the Other speakers included NYC Council Member Ydanis plaza. “This plaza is an integral part of the environment here, a project today, but the Rodriguez, who helped provide funding for the plaza; New and sets the tone for what we can accomplish right here on York State Senator Marisol Alcantara, and Deputy Eric the Wilf Campus,” said Sterman. “I’ve had multiple student construction of our com- Marfarlane of the New York City Department of Design and council and club meetings right here on these benches. The Construction. plaza, the physical epicenter of our campus, is where all our munity and the deepen- Though the new plaza is located in the heart of YU’s Wilf paths, physically and figuratively, collide and form something Campus, its construction was part of a larger project: the NYC much bigger than the individual parts.” ing ties within it.” Department of Transportation’s NYC Plaza Program, which After the speeches, President Berman, Councilman Rodriguez, aims to provide all inhabitants of New York City a quality open Pincar, and Macfarlane formally cut the plaza ribbon, flecked space within walking distance. “Plazas are porches for our with YU insignia, with golden scissors. addressing a crowd of about 75 people. “The mission of community,” said Ed Pincar, deputy borough commissioner Yeshiva University,” he said, “is to build a kinder, more gentle of the NYC Department of Transportation. “We’re not not just Jewish community, but really all of society. It’s for this celebrating a project today, but the construction of our reason that I love this project. It doesn’t just give a space for our community and the deepening ties within it.”

Beren Campus Dorms Open on Chol Hamoed for First Time In Eight Years Mindy Schwartz Editor - in - Chief

issue for them,” she that the dorms should be open on Yom Tov as well. One SCW said of the results, “and student from Los Angeles noted that while “the new policy is who knows how many really nice for people who can’t go home, why would I shlep more are affected.” back and forth?” If she is traveling home for Yom Tov anyway, Baum noted that the she pointed out, “I am just going to stay where I am.” closures can be an Another student echoed this sentiment, noting that the new issue for students policy doesn’t really help those who need it. “[Housing] sees who live out of the this as a solution to the homelessness problem, which it is not tri-state area, as well because the dorms are still closed over actual Yom Tov.” She as for students in the added that she herself moved out of the dorm for her senior mechina program that year because the “Tishrei stress” of finding places to go was too may not have religious much for her. “It is disturbing that they are patting themselves family or friends to on the back for opening dorms over Chol Hamoed when in spend the holidays reality they the dorms shouldn’t close at all,” she said. The dissatisfaction with the Beren Housing policy over the For the first time since 2009 University Housing on the Beren chagim is heightened by the fact that the Wilf Campus Housing Campus will be open on Chol Hamoed Sukkot, from October “It is disturbing that they are does not close over this period. The men’s dorms officially close 8th to October 10th. In addition, the dorms will be open on October 3rd, but any students who would like to stay on between Yom Kippur and Sukkot, October 1st to October patting themselves on the campus over the break are housed in Strenger Hall, one of the 4th. back for opening dorms over four dorm buildings on the Wilf campus. Kraut explained that There will be a reduced facilities staff during these periods, but Chol Hamoed when in reali- the discrepancy is due to the fact that “Washington Heights Rachel Kraut, Director of University Housing and Residence hosts a vibrant community of shuls, families, and Rebbeim, Life on the Beren campus, told The Observer that “there will be ty they the dorms shouldn’t whereas there are not many options in midtown Manhattan an appropriate presence of Security, Facilities, Housekeeping close at all” for our women to feel a sense of community and a Yom Tov and University Housing staff, proportionate to the number of atmosphere.” However she claimed that “If we had a significant students on campus at this time.” number of students who committed to staying on campus over Kraut said that the decision was made based on the feedback Chag, we are certainly open to re-evaluating this in the future.” received from a survey given to “Out-of-Towner” students, with, international students, or students who come from Despite this assertion, some students feel that not all possible as well as “various conversations we had with students.” troubled families. options for facilitating a Yom Tov environment in Midtown Kraut emphasized thats student interest was key in making When asked about such students, Kraut responded, “we have really been explored. Baum pointed out that hosting the decision. She pointed out that eight years ago when the certainly understand that some students struggle with Yom Tov for students could be arranged with nearby shuls Chabad dorms were last open on Chol Hamoed “less than 10 students plans for various reasons. In addition to students contacting of Midtown or Aderet El, both of which she said would be were remaining on campus over the holiday and it was not Rachel Ciment, the Director of Spiritual Guidance on campus, interested in the possibility. economically sound to keep 4 residence halls open.” But for assistance , our RA/GA team was pro-active by checking While it is possible that in future years such options may be because enough students have expressed interest in staying in in with their residents to make sure they have the necessary tested, for now the dorms will be open on Chol Hamoed but the dorms over this period, the policy has been changed for this accommodations for Yom Tov.” closed over Yom Tov. Kraut did note, however, that the dorms year. Many students are excited by the new policy. Liorah Rubenstein, will be open on Shavuot this year “since it falls immediately Chava Baum, SCW ‘18, spoke with Housing over the summer SCW ‘18, commended the change, telling The Observer, after finals and Commencement.” Because of the time about the issue of dorms closing over chagim. Baum even “having access to the dorms over Chol Hamoed is not only a constraints of the calendar, Kraut stated that “housing will be made a survey which she posted in the “Stern: In the Know” convenience–it is a symbol of support and acknowledgment open to accommodate the student body and we look forward to Facebook group to see how many students were also affected from our university of the “out of town” student body.” creating a robust Shavuot experience.” by the dorm closures. “About 20 students indicated it was an However some feel that housing has not gone far enough, and October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 4 Page 5 • October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 News

Shabb@Beren Minyan Initiative Continues to Thrive Shira Krinsky Staff Writer

“One of the biggest strug- gles of being a Jewish university is creating a strong sense of communi- ty throughout the diverse student body. Shabbat on campus is an opportunity to engender those feelings across campus.”

low-pressure social scene was right up my alley.” As an instrumental player in getting the minyan initiative off the ground and a mainstay presence of the Shabbat at Beren, Rabbi Lerner continues to enjoy the minyan’s success. “Having the minyan continues to be a wonderful enhancement to shabbat programming at Beren. Shabbat began and ended with a lot of ruach. Student participation at both shacharit and Mincha was noteworthy.” He also explained that logistically the minyan allows the Rabbinic faculty and male guests “to be more present and involved with programming and meals– Last year, the Beren campus Shabbat experience changed more spacious and which the minyan coordinators hope will especially Seudat shelisheet–since we don’t have to run back drastically with the addition of a minyan on campus for all not carry the sad, dank basement vibe of the old locations. and forth to shul.” shabbatons. Previously only co-ed shabbatons, which are often A second change that has been made is the addition of optional Rabbi Rosenzweig feels even more than just being practically popular with male students, could provide Beren students programming for the men, who are not allowed to attend any sound, the minyan helps to build a sense of unity and community with their own on-campus Shabbat minyan. The new initiative of the main programming for the women. Rabbi Lerner, the throughout all of Yeshiva University. “I’m excited to continue was the brainchild of then-TAC vice president of Shabbat Beren campus rabbi, and Rabbi Yisroel Meir Rosenzweig, one building minyan as a part of the overall Shabbos experience on Jen van Amerongen and the then-president of the Shabbat half of the new Beren campus couple, will be providing optional the Beren campus. I hope that a strong minyan is indicative of Enhancement Committee, Avital Habshush. Van Amerongen shiurim during the men’s kiddush and/or the oneg. If enough unity between the campuses, as well as a sense of investment explained to The Observer that “Shabbat is a day that is all men are interested in programming with whoever the guests in the Beren Shabbos experience on the part of the minyan about community and especially communal tefillah. When are at Beren for that Shabbat, there may also be an option to participants and the broader Wilf campus community. Our Shabbat davening took place at [local synagogue] Adereth El, have programming with them as well. campuses are separate gender, which is important and should attendance was low because many students chose to daven Rabbi Rosenzweig has enjoyed being a part of the new be honored. However, I don’t think that should equal a lack of by themselves instead of making the trip. Because we are a programming, “I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time concern for one another. We are all peers, as well as part of religious institution, it is imperative that we have a space for with the young men coming to campus and have found them YU’s legacy and future,” he told The Observer. our own tefillah; Avital and I thought that bringing a minyan to be a good group. I’ve given shiur to the group at their In an interview with The Observer earlier this year, Rabbi to the Beren Campus would be the perfect way to unite Beren kiddush on Shabbos morning and we’ve had a great time with Brander confirmed that enhancing the shabbat programming at students as one religious community.” Van Amerongen and meaningful discussions that were sparked by the mekoros that Stern will continue to be a priority for the administration and Habshush, with the help of faculty members Naomi Kohl, we were learning,” he said. the Student Life team. He noted that additional funds had been Rabbi Kenneth Brander, and Rabbi Daniel Lerner, managed to Rabbi Lerner was similarly pleased with the success of the all raised specifically “to improve the Shabbat at Beren experience, make their vision of a minyan on campus a reality almost every male programming. “The programming we provided for the based on the first hand experiences of students.” The money Shabbat of last semester. ‘Minyan Men’ also appeared to be well-received,” he said. will be used to for a number of shabbat improvements, such as This year, under the guidance of Ilana Karp, the current “Personally, I appreciated having the opportunity to interact securing interesting scholar in residences for Shabbatons and president of the Shabbat Enhancement Committee, and Adina with the students during the shiur that I gave on Friday night “ensuring that there be a minyan on a regular basis,” which Cohen, the current TAC vice president of Shabbat, the minyan and hopefully they enjoyed it half as much as I did!” obviously requires funds to house the Beren ‘Minyan Men’ at is a regular fixture at every Shabbat on the Beren campus once Ben Strachman, a YC student who attended one of the first a hotel near Stern. again. Shabbat minyanim at Beren this year, told The Observer, “I The investment of administrative attention, funds, and student When asked why it was important for her to continue this really enjoyed the shabbat I spent making the minyan at Beren effort has thus far produced high returns in students’ Shabbat initiative this year Cohen explained, “One of the biggest last year, and this year the minyan organizers went above and experiences this year. Racheli Moskowitz, a junior at Stern struggles of being a Jewish university is creating a strong sense beyond in improving the shabbat experience for the ‘Minyan College who spent an all-girls shabbat with a minyan on of community throughout the diverse student body. Shabbat Men’. There were noticeable improvements to the men’s campus, attested to its success. “I think it’s a really important on campus is an opportunity to engender those feelings across Shabbat experience since last year. In particular, we ate in a step towards changing the Shabbat environment on campus; campus. In general, most communities gather around the more appropriate and enjoyable setting and enjoyed access to to me it says that the school really cares about my prayer davening, as davening not only brings people together through enhanced programming on Friday night, Shabbat morning, and opportunities for Shabbat, and that I can find everything I need the words themselves but through the different customs that Shabbat afternoon. At every stage in the process both last year for Shabbat on my campus.” Another junior, Rachel Fried, develop as part of the tefillah. Having a weekly minyan on and this year, the women who organized the minyan and the expressed a similar sentiment, “It’s amazing. I love having a campus is what allows Beren to concretize the strides it is men’s accommodations made it clear that they are committed minyan on campus.” making in other areas of Shabbat programming as well as create to improving the men’s shabbat experience on Beren, and I saw Last year, Habshush expressed that “Having our own tefillah in an overall more meaningful experience for the student body.” clear evidence of that.” our own Beit Midrash will help to add to the ruach and feeling This year, however, because van Amerongen and Habshush Benjy Koslowe, a YC student who helped make the minyan the of community on the Beren campus on Shabbat. Tefillah is an already laid the groundwork and did much of the hard work same week as Ben, had similar feelings about his experience on integral part of Shabbat and the covenantal faith community in in establishing the minyan, TAC and SEC are working hard the Beren campus. “I thoroughly enjoyed my experience as a general so we wanted to enhance the religious experience here to make any improvements possible to the experiences of the Beren ‘Minyan Man’. The accommodations were comfortable, on campus.” When asked about how she feels about the minyan men who come to help make the minyan every Shabbat, on the the food was delicious, the davening was meaningful. I initiative at Beren today, Habshush, who is now a student condition that it does not disturb the atmosphere of the all- also appreciated that our group of guys received special in YU’s Graduate Program for Advanced Talmudic Studies women’s Shabbat, which has always been a top priority. programming in the form of two interesting Torah sichot.” (GPATS) said, “It’s spectacular to see that the question asked Two notable changes that have been made this year are the Koslowe also noted the unique social environment created about the minyan now is not how or if it can happen, but how location of the meals and optional programming for the men. for the men who come to Beren to create the minyan. “The we can work to make it better. Jen and I worked tirelessly with Last year, the men usually ate in the Kushner dining hall or the highlight was spending Shabbos with friends. During meals OSL and it feels like a real win for the Beren campus that the reference lounge. This year, the men are still eating separately, we ten men enjoyed each other’s company, sharing in great minyan is here to stay.” but have switch locations to room 101 of 245 Lexington, conversations. In between official programming, I caught up which, with its floor to ceiling windows, is much lighter and and hung out with friends of the other gender. The relaxed, News October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 6

Stern Computer Science Department Goes from Zero to 25 Students in One Year Mindy Schwartz Editor-in-Chief

At the end of the 2012- 2013 school year, SCW sophomore Rivka Apfel decided to switch to Queens College. In her first year she had taken an Introduction to Java course and decided to pursue a major in Computer Science, but at the time no such major existed. In fact, other than the class she had already taken, there was only one other computer science course offered. While she called the intro course she took “really incredible,” there was nowhere for her to move forward. “They talked about maybe building a major eventually,” She told The Observer, “but [they] couldn’t guarantee it, so I left.” When applying to Stern in 2014, Brielle Broder, SCW ‘19, had to face a similar decision. “When I applied to Stern, there “Our investment in computer science is based was no Computer Science major. I worried that I would either have to sacrifice learning what I’m passionate about or being a student at Stern,” she said. off the interest of our students,” Dr. Bacon said. Fortunately she didn’t have to make that choice. Dr. Alan opportunities, particularly in the STEM and health fields, that made, such as “offering more advanced classes for those who Broder, head of the Computer Science Department at will only bolster our reputation.” are interested as well as [offering] independent research, Stern, spoke to The Observer about the drastic changes the While cynics might have shrugged off Dr. Berman’s assertions working on a project that benefits the individual as well as the department has undergone in recent years. “Over the past few on the importance of STEM as lip service, Dr. Broder confirmed school in some way.” But he also pointed out that many of these years Stern’s Computer Science department has evolved from that this support has already been put into action. “Dr. Berman improvements are already in the works. For example, “This offering just a minor in Computer Science with limited course has made it clear how important STEM is to YU in general, and semester the department added Natural Language Processing, offerings, to a BA program in Computer Science,” he said. to Stern in particular. This fall, the Stern Computer Science an advanced elective covering Artificial Intelligence topics.” “A year ago, there were zero students majoring in Computer Department was authorized to hire an additional full-time The department has also started to offer more seniors Science, now there are about 25 students with a declared faculty member, which by Fall 2018 will bring the total of full- “teaching assistant positions, enabling those students to learn major in Computer Science, and additional students who are time faculty dedicated to Stern Computer Science to three. and practice key coaching and teaching skills.” contemplating declaring the major.” We plan to use this expansion of our staff to expand the range Dr. Bacon expects the department to continue to grow and Although the major is almost brand new, Dr. Broder insists that of Computer Science courses available to both majors and make those improvements. “For women, interest in computer it is not only up to speed with other competitive undergraduate nonmajors.” science is going up, even if it is going up more slowly [than programs, but is superior in some respects. “Our Computer In an interview with The Observer Dr. Karen Bacon, Dean of it is for men].” That interest has been critical in making the Science curriculum address the core requirements of most the Undergraduate Faculty of the Arts and Sciences, pointed computer science department a focus of board meetings as other Computer Science departments, and in some ways, out that improving the Computer Science Department at Stern well as administrative and financial attention. “Our investment offers more intense exposure to content not offered at other has been a goal since before Dr. Berman came on the scene. in computer science is based off the interest of our students,” departments,” he said. “Our Computer Science faculty have Dr. Bacon noted that while there used to be a Computer Dr. Bacon said. “Just last year I brought up [to the board of very strong industrial backgrounds, which means that in Science major at Stern a long time ago, “the department fell Stern College] that we have to expand the Computer Science addition to covering classical and theoretical computer science, apart” around the time the dotcom bubble popped in the early department, and next board meeting’s topic will be about we also pay added attention to practical skills and technologies 2000s due to a lack of job opportunities and lack of student expanding the department again.” that are in demand.” interest. “If we had one major a year it was a lot back then, so Although Brielle Broder does admit that she would “love to Indeed offerings for the Fall 2017 semester look very we moved away from it,” she said. “But as things in the outside see a broader range of classes from the Computer Science different than they did in Apfel’s time at Stern. There are two world changed–the job market expanded and high schools department” since right now “there are only a few Computer Introduction to Computer Science courses offered with a total began to encourage women to get involved in coding–we saw Science electives,” she is also quick to praise the department of 39 students enrolled, as well as six other classes that cover that we had to have a dynamite department so that women who and its faculty. “I am so appreciative of all my professors’ topics ranging from Discrete Structures to Web Development. are interested know they would be trained well here.” Dr. willingness to and enthusiasm for helping students with the Computer Science major Racheli Moskowitz, SCW ‘19, has Bacon praised Dr. Broder, who joined the faculty four years ago internship and job hunting process. Since the beginning of the been happy to see the department grow. “I was actually really to spearhead the program after running his own cyber security school-year, I have already received six emails from the head surprised by the effort the university is putting towards the business, for his experience and vision. “We follow his lead in of the Computer Science department about applying to various Computer Science Department,” she said. “I really feel like terms of crafting what we need to expand the department.” internships for the summer. It is so comforting to know that the they care about building up the department.” After making sure the cicurlcum was in line “with what is professors really want their students to succeed.” An emphasis on STEM has been a consistent talking point considered the industry standard,” Dr. Bacon said that the goal While she almost had to decide between computer science and in President Berman’s public statements, most notably the has been to expand “into specialty areas” and to create courses Stern, Broder, now Vice President of the Computer Science keynote address at his investiture, in which he highlighted for nonmajors “who don’t want to major in computer science, Society for the Beren Campus, has been able to enjoy the full the importance of “building new opportunities for STEM, but want to be computer savvy for whatever field they choose experience of both. especially in computers and coding,” along with the creation to go into.” “When I applied they didn’t offer the Computer Science major of bridge programs with Hebrew University and Bar Ilan for Professor Ari Shamash, who currently works at Google and is I wanted. Now, however, there is a scholarship available for graduate studies in computer science. teaching Computer Systems at Stern this semester, agreed that students who come to Stern specifically wanting to major in Dr. Berman also singled out STEM expansion in his response “what I’ve seen [of the department] matched up quite well with Computer Science,” she reflected. “It is so exciting to see how to YU’s almost 30 place drop to 94th rank in U.S. News and other universities.” quickly the Computer Science department has grown in the World Report’s College ranking this September, telling The He consented that there are still improvements that can be past few years.” Observer, “we are excited about our expanding academic October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 6 Page 7 • October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 News

YU Makes A New Push to Attract Undergraduate Students with Joint BA/MA Degrees and Master’s Programs Mindy Schwartz Editor - in - Chief Yeshiva University is unveiling a number of new graduate plans to use their Pathway Programs as a selling point. “Now during their undergraduate education.” programs in the coming years. In fall 2018, the Katz School that a master’s is the bachelor’s,” Botman said, “we want our In addition to a streamlined Pathway Program for obtaining a of Graduate Studies alone will open three new programs: an graduate programs to serve as an incentive to come to YU [for graduate degree, certain scholarships for YU undergraduates MS in Data Analytics & Visualization, an MS in Enterprise undergrad].” are also being considered for certain Master’s programs as a Risk Management, and–pending approval from the American Botman noted that the option to receive a BA/MA degree is further incentive for prospective undergraduates. Bar Association–an MS in Data Law and Privacy in partnership “not really on the minds of students” applying to college, For example, according to Dr. Citanna “a full tuition discount” with Cardozo Law School. Sy Syms School of Business will also who usually “just want to focus on finishing one degree” and was available for qualified YU graduates enrolled in the be offering an MS in Taxation and, in partnership with Katz, an not on “starting the next one.” But she pointed out that the Masters in Quantitative Economics either full or part time. He online degree in marketing Pathway Program can attract parents of prospective students pointed out that students who had enrolled in the joint BA/MA An MS in biotechnology from Katz, as well as an MS in marriage “who are thinking about these things long term and can see the program could finish their graduate studies for “typically only counseling from Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology, are advantage” of this kind of program. an extra semester, at very favorable tuition rates.” However also currently undergoing review for approval by New York Sneva emphasized that “it is a priority for all of YU’s graduate such students rarely chose to do so. Currently the program is State education officials. Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish programs to connect with YU’s undergraduate students.” filled mostly by Chinese students studying abroad. This year Education is also developing a program specifically tailored Sneva said that this Spring Semester there will be a series of 31 of the 32 students are Chinese, and the program even to those who work as directors and high-level staff in summer on-campus and online information sessions for current YU has a recruiter in China to continue this robust international camps and programs. undergraduates, enrollment. But while Botman was very proud of the program’s A new position, Executive Director of Graduate Enrollment where they can success she also said that she “wish[es] our own students would Management, was even created to facilitate enrollment in all of “Now that a master’s is the learn about all of enroll in the program too.” Presumably, one larger goal of YU’s ever-expanding graduate schools. The new position will new bachelor's,” Botman the University’s the Pathway Programs will be to advertise such opportunities be filled by Christine Sneva. said, “we want our gradu- graduate to prospective students so that more YU students will take The expansion of graduate offerings seem to demonstrate, ate programs to serve as an programs. She advantage of them in the future. as Provost Dr. Sema Botman said in an interview with The incentive to come to YU [for also announced Joint degree programs in Computer Science with Hebrew Observer, that YU is “a university on the move.” But they are that “YU alumni University and Bar Ilan were also announced by President also part of a larger undergraduate recruitment strategy that undergrad].” will have access Berman in his September 10th investiture speech, the details administrators hope will set YU apart from other universities to to a streamlined of which Botman said are currently being discussed amongst prospective students and their parents. alumni application starting November 1, 2017,” as “a start” in each of the school’s’ department heads. The programs would Botman told The Observer that YU is in the process of creating reaching YU graduates and undergraduates for enrollment in allow students with a bachelor’s in computer science from YU “Pathway Programs” which will enable students to enroll in YU’s graduate school’s. to pursue a Master’s in the same field at Bar Ilan or Hebrew some of its many master’s programs as bachelor’s students. While a joint BA/MA degree option has long been available University. A cooperating degree with Tel-Aviv University The goal is to offer students the option of streamlining their for students seeking to pursue a masters as Bernard Revel in electrical engineering was also recently announced, which education so that they can attain an advanced degree in a Graduate School of Jewish Studies, it is only in recent years that would allow YU students to complete their bachelor’s degree shorter time period of time. the policy has been expanded to other YU graduate schools, at Tel Aviv University’s School of Electrical Engineering. According to Botman, the Wurzweiler Graduate School of including the certain programs at the Katz School. Allowing qualifying students to pursue bachelor’s and master’s Social Work will soon have a Pathway Program so that students For example courses in the Katz School’s Masters in degrees in prodigious Israeli universities would certainly be looking to pursue social work can receive a BA/MSW. Quantitative Economics have been open to undergraduates another draw for undergraduates looking to enter those fields. Botman is confident that such an option will set YU apart seeking a joint BA/MA since the program’s inception in While Botman is confident, only the enrollment figures will be and draw undergraduates to the university. In the current 2012. The director the program, Dr. Alessandro Citanna, able to tell if the new recruitment strategy will be effective at workforce in which a bachelor’s degree is rarely sufficient to told The Observer that a number of “Yeshiva College students bringing more undergraduates to YU. ensure someone a solid, white collar job in most fields, YU benefitted from the BA/MA option, taking up to 12 credits

Yeshiva College Professor Receives Grant to Continue Work on Gender Issues in Nineteenth-Century France Sarah Casteel News Editor

Dr. Rachel Mesch, associate professor of French and English at Yeshiva College, has been named a recipient of the National Yeshiva University values Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) 2017 Public Scholar Program grant. The $29,400 grant, intended to fund “well- and appreciates its faculty researched books in the humanities intended for a broad members’ contributions to audience,” will allow Mesch to take a semester off from teaching to finish her book titled, Trans Before Trans: Three both scholarly circles and the Gender Outlaws in Nineteenth-Century France. Mesch, who institution’s academics, and is a scholar in the areas of nineteenth-century French studies, women writers, and gender studies (among other things), Mesch’s book will be yet intends to “offer a meaningful addition to contemporary debates” regarding gender. In addition to many articles, another of her many addi- this book will be Mesch’s third published work, along with tions to the school’s resourc- The Hysteric’s Revenge (2006) and Having it All in the Belle Epoque (2013), both of which explore similar themes. es for further learning and Mesch is excited about being able to continue her research understanding of the greater “because of its relevance to our contemporary discussions, but also, because it is fundamentally about a human struggle world. that goes beyond questions of gender identity: that of self understanding.” The book will follow three main subjects whose journeys to self discovery are both enlightening and relatable to readers. The three women who lived in France in amongst her students and fellow faculty. She explains that her the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, “did not see classes are “about getting students to be interested in the past and in worlds outside of their own, but also about developing themselves as women” according to Mesch. She will use their awarded a small Dr. Kenneth Chelst Book Grant from Yeshiva stories to shed light on the topic of gender identity before the an appreciation for the Humanities and how it can broaden one’s experience of the world.” Her students often report College, allowing her to hire a YU student to transcribe various modern idea and terminology of transgender identities existed. archival materials, but this substantial grant affords her the Mesch said that, “This book is truly meant to connect the that they gain new and meaningful understandings about the various subjects covered in class, and she hopes to accomplish opportunity to complete her work back in Paris. Mesch plans present to the past, and to help readers understand the richly on taking a semester off from teaching to continue archival textured discussions of identity associated with our present a similar goal by making the findings of her current research public and accessible to them as well. work and other research in what will be her second trip to Paris moment by situating them in a longer, critical, and historical for the project. trajectory.” Her goal -- like that of the NEH program -- is to Yeshiva University values and appreciates its faculty members’ make her work available to scholars and non-scholars alike. contributions to both scholarly circles and the institution’s This includes her own students and the YU community. academics, and Mesch’s book will be yet another of her many Mesch’s other works are recognized and highly revered additions to the school’s resources for further learning and understanding of the greater world. Mesch was previously Features October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 8

Rabbi Kanarfogel Travels to Mainz For World Heritage Site Application Leah Klahr & Shira Krinsky Features Editor & Staff Writer cont’d from front page that the significance of designating the Rhineland region as a World Heritage Site goes beyond the far-reaching intellectual history of the area. “Receiving this prestigious designation, and the funds it offers, would directly impact not only the Rhineland as whole, but specifically the Jewish communities that live there now…it is quite remarkable that such strong and public efforts are being made to help German Jewry in one of the many areas so completely ravaged by the Holocaust,” Rabbi Kanarfogel said. For example, Rabbi Kanarfogel explained that one of the programs held over the conference took place at a “newly built, very spacious” Orthodox shul. Additionally, a Rabbi from Israel has begun to spend two weeks each month serving these communities. Rabbi Kanarfogel expressed, “The importance of this kind of trip is that top-flight scholarship gets done in the name of helping Jews and their communities today…There is no better Torah-u-Madda integration than that in my view.” For Rabbi Kanarfogel, helping the Jewish communities of Western Germany is a central focus of his involvement in the project. “To help Jews, I imagine any of us would travel anywhere,” he said. This trip was Rabbi Kanarfogel’s second to Mainz to work with the committee on this project. The Rhineland communities have a number of important monumental sites, including the cemeteries in Worms and Mainz, and an ancient mikvah in Speyer. A part of the conference featured a tour of the cemetery in Mainz, though Rabbi Kanarfogel had to “rely on pictures of tombstones taken by colleagues” since he is a kohen, and cannot enter the cemetery. At the conference, Rabbi Kanarfogel spoke about “a ‘brand-new’, very important manuscript citation regarding one of Rashi’s colleagues in Mainz,” which he came across at the National Library of Israel during his most recent research trip there. Rabbi Kanarfogel shared with The Observer that in turn, over the conference, he learned about “some new Jewish manuscript fragments found in the area that relate to the writings of the period under discussion.” Regarding the trip logistics, Rabbi Kanarfogel stated, “The organizers have been extremely solicitous of my needs, whether making sure that I had strictly kosher food that was brought Rabbi Kanarfogel expressed, “The importance from the airline commissary in Frankfurt, or allowing me to fly in and out over a relatively brief of this kind of trip is that top-flight scholarship period of time so that I could make my scheduled Stern honors class on Tuesday afternoon.” Commenting on the experience as whole, Rabbi Kanarfogel reflected, “This was yet another gets done in the name of helping Jews and their meaningful academic and personal experience in the names of both Yeshiva University and the communities today…There is no better Torah-u- Jewish communities of Shu”m. As a University Professor, I have the great honor and privilege of traveling to conferences and research events in Israel and Europe with some frequency—but Madda integration than that in my view.” I never tire of seeing all the good that can be done in the course of learning and scholarship.”

Stern Students Respond to the “Build a Stern Girl” BuzzFeed Quiz Leah Klahr Features Editor

cont’d from front page

The quiz was taken down by BuzzFeed moderators on Sunday morning due to reports of offensive content. there be a balance between calling out certain phenomena and censorship? It depends, because balance is relative, and can be used a source of censorship. I personally am against censorship to some extent, because it limits creativity, and doesn’t allow for people to make statements that need to be heard…Could I have had a better balance in in my quiz, consequently offending less people? Probably. But that would have been at the cost of the quiz’s effectiveness.” Lindenberg stressed, “The quiz was created as satire; I’m not out to offend, harass, or bully anyone. My goal initially was to create a product that achieved its goal effectively…it got a lot of attention, and even caused some people to face the problem of the know” Facebook group, it triggered varied comments from creator of the quiz probably intended it as satire, the quiz’s lack how many women in our community feel that they need to get Stern students. While some students joked about the quiz of creativity and humor simply reinforced a negative stereotype; married at such a young age.” results they received, others expressed their disapproval of the it’s important that satirical material about YU accomplishes Lindeberg also explained that though the quiz was removed quiz’s content. “This is offensive to the entire Stern student something other than just bringing students down.” by BuzzFeed, she was planning to take down the quiz herself body,” commented Jasmine Razi, Syms ‘18. “Every student However, other students argued that the quiz was harmless. because of the negative feelings it had generated. here is unique and is on her own path. It’s sad to see a fellow “It seems like the goal of the quiz is to just make fun of this student spreading harmful stereotypes, and putting down stereotype because it barely exists, yet is over-exaggerated. We other students instead of empowering one another.” Other all know it’s a minority of students that come out this way, so comments expressed frustration with the misrepresentation of it’s just making fun of how over-exaggerated it is,” commented Stern women created by the quiz answer choices. Efrat Malachi, SCW ‘20. Another student, Kira Paley, SCW ‘19, commented on the When questioned about the line between satire and offensive difference between “satire…and spreading unnecessary, content, Lindenberg responded to The Observer, “Should unwanted pessimism.” Paley told The Observer, “While the Page 9 • October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 Features

The Beauty Behind the Music:

TalyaGetting Hyman to Know Yonina Staff Writer

We hope that the music will TH: How do you work together during those times when your be able to speak to every visions do differ, and how do your separate talents come together? person, wherever they’re Nina: We try and find something at. We aspire for our mu- that we both connect to. There’s no one formula, but we work together sic to come from a genuine and learn each other’s strengths. We naturally gravitate towards different place, to be very honest and things, which is an easy way to split the roles. Yoni has a good ear for real—as hard as that is— chords and sound, and I’m better at week after week. remembering words. We were each Yoni and Nina Tokayer, better known as the duo band “Yonina,” are making a name for doing music way before we met, so it themselves in contemporary Jewish music. Their cover of Matisyahu’s “One Day” has gone viral, wouldn’t be right just to merge our now reaching over 1.8 million viewers. Yonina’s pure talent, love of God, and commitment to one identities together completely. We still are independent people in the end. That’s the special another continue to captivate thousands of followers around the globe. During Yonina’s recent thing about marriage—you’re one, but you’re also separate. Down the road we do have thoughts Shabbat visit to Stern College, the duo spread light and love to the YU community through their of releasing solo albums. But we love making music together. We feel like the sum is larger than spirituality, happiness, and warmth. the separates. Nina opened up to The Observer about Yonina’s journey. Below is a transcript of the interview. TH: Many of your songs are Tefillot, which are very personal—does that change the way you Talya Hyman: When did you realize that you both share a deep love for music and singing? perform the songs? Nina: Really, really quickly. We did not meet through music, but from our first conversation we Nina: In general, performing is very personal. We hope that our concerts are like one long realized that we were both very passionate about music. Yoni told me that he was in the middle of prayer, tefillah, of everyone together. I feel like any song that is meaningful is a prayer; something recording a solo album, and I told him that I also write music. I never thought that I would marry we’re longing for, something deep that we want to express. We hope people can relate to that, a musician, but it’s been an amazing added bonus. wherever they are in their lives.

TH: When you recorded your very first video, what inspired you to upload it and share your TH: What is the most meaningful message someone has said to you about your music? talents with the world? Nina: Thank God, we get a lot of beautiful responses from people. Once we got a message from Nina: The idea actually came from Yoni and his friend way before we met. They thought it would an Arab-Muslim living in Yafo who said, “I love your music. It makes me believe in peace. I be cool to post weekly pre-Shabbat videos. They did it for a while, and when Yoni and I met they even waited until after Shabbat to like your page.” That was really powerful. Other people tell were still posting every week. After we got married, I joined in, but we were living in Tel Aviv, us that our music makes them feel connected when they’re going through a rough time, that our and our friend lived in Jerusalem. It was hard with the distance, so the three of us stopped making music inspires and gives them strength. Every so often, we’re told by people that they heard our videos. At a certain point, Yoni and I realized that making videos is an amazing tool to share our song “Ahava” being played at a wedding as the chatan and kallah walked down the aisle to the music together, so we got back to it, but as a new page and called it Yonina. chuppah. It always touches us when we hear that people feel so connected to our songs that they use them to express their love to each other. TH: What do you hope to communicate with your audience? Nina: So much. At the most basic level we just hope it will do good to people. If people feel TH: Being in the spotlight, do you feel any pressure to make a Kiddush Hashem? like they need happiness in their lives, or strength, or inspiration, or a connection to Israel, to Nina: I always feel pressure to make a Kiddush Hashem. We have been blessed—Hashem has Judaism. We hope that the music will be able to speak to every person, wherever they’re at. We been really good to us, and we need to go and do good things with what He’s given us. We aren’t aspire for our music to come from a genuine place, to be very honest and real—as hard as that just trying to make a living; there’s a greater reason why we’re in this place where we can reach is—week after week. I don’t know if we always manage to live up to that, but it’s an aspiration. We so many people. We try our best to use this tool to make people happy and spread positivity and just hope to bring people closer to themselves, to each other, to the Divine. love for Israel and Judaism- adding meaningfulness.

TH: What is the most special part about performing together? TH: How does it feel to know that your music has the power to reach so many different types Nina: It’s so complex, and sort of goes both ways. On one hand, it’s amazing. As someone once of people? put it, “I get to do what I love the most with the person I love the most.” So that’s really special. Nina: Scary and empowering. Scary, because this is such an incredible opportunity and we don’t It’s exciting to be able to share so many experiences, this roller-coaster ride, together as a want to miss it. We want to do it right. Empowering because we feel blessed. couple. Creating music together brings our relationship to a whole other level. But it’s also really challenging. Working together all the time is really intense. Creating together is hard because we both have different visions, wanting to take things in different directions. It’s a challenge for our relationship, but it also adds depth. Features October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 10

ShiraA ReviewFournier of the YU Museum’s “Arch of Titus” Exhibit

Over the Sukkot break, I decided to take a trip to the YU version of the Arch, Arc de Triomphe, in Paris. When Pope Museum and take a look at its new exhibit, “The Arch of Titus: Pius VII came to power, he restored the Arch to its original From Jerusalem to Rome, and Back.” Not having learned about glory, making it the center of Catholic Rome. Since then, Jews it in my previous schooling, getting to learn about the Arch, have begun a tradition of refusing to walk under the Arch. and view the replica that was made for the exhibit was a real Years later, early Zionists viewed the Arch of Titus as a symbol treat. The exhibit explores, through writing and artifacts, the of Exile, and the return of the Menorah to Israel symbolized conquer of Rome over Jerusalem, and the implications of this their goals in the new State. In fact, throughout the history of event on Jewish history. The exhibition gives over a thorough the Arch’s existence, Jews did not let the depressing history of telling of this history, beginning with the conquering of the Arch ruin their hope. Rather, they utilized that hope in their Jerusalem by Titus through the creation of the state of Israel. art, poetry, literature, and public performances. The famous From 66-74 CE, the Romans went to war with the Jews in Menorah depicted on the Arch of Titus has been the inspiration hopes of conquering the holy city of Jerusalem, and their holy for emblems in both synagogues and the military. The Menorah Temple. Celebrating their victory, the Romans destroyed the was even used as the insignia of the Jewish Legion of the British Temple, and took whatever was left inside, including the big Army during World War I. An interesting fact that I learned while examining the exhibit was that the Menorah portrayed in the Arch of Titus is the same Menorah picked as the symbol for Not only does the presentation illus- the new State of Israel. Cool, huh? By choosing the Menorah trate how the Arch looks today, but as its emblem, a better understanding of the disaster that led to the building of the Arch was integrated into the new State’s it also depicts what the carving had foundations. presentation illustrate how the Arch looks today, but it also looked like back in 82 BCE, and what it In 1947, after the United Nations declared Israel as Jewish depicts what the carving had looked like back in 82 BCE, and would look like in color. State, the Jews of Rome, together with Holocaust survivors, what it would look like in color. This can be seen nowhere but finally walked under the Arch of Titus in reverse, symbolizing at this exhibit. Through this presentation, you can truly get a golden Menorah. In honor of this success, the Arch of Titus and ending the exile that was brought about by Titus. Today, the picture of what the carving must have looked like when it was was built to commemorate Titus’s victory over Jerusalem, and Arch of Titus still stands in Via Sacra, Rome in Italy, depicting made all the way back in 82 CE. A slide show tells of how the his other victories as well. Within the Arch is a depiction of the what once was, and what will never be again. scene was restored and copied over to make the imitation that Roman soldiers carrying their spoils of war, which includes the Through reading the panels of history on the wall, and viewing is in the exhibition today. vessels used in the Temple. the artifacts displayed in the viewing cases centered in the So, if you don’t want to miss out on this incredible viewing and The Jews regarded the Arch of Titus with contempt and sadness. room, you can get a pretty good sense of the history behind the learning opportunity, be sure to check out the Arch of Titus The Church humiliated the Jews by making them walk through Arch of Titus and the symbolic Menorah. Each panel covering exhibit from September 14, 2017 through January 14, 2018 the Arch and adorn the sculpture inside. Christians viewed the walls of the room distinguishes and explains the history at the YU Museum on 15 West 16th Street. the Arch as a proof of God’s punishment to the Jews for not behind the momentous Arch. Following the history of the Arch The exhibition was made possible, in part, through the converting to Christianity. Thanks to the Christians’ interest on the walls is the explanation of the historic Menorah. Pictures generous support of the Leon Levy Foundation, The Slomo in the architecture and meaning behind the Arch, the Arch and descriptions show how the Menorah inspired other artists, and Cindy Silvian Foundation, the Leon Charney Legacy Fund has been preserved over the years. Through years of wear and like Nahum Gutman, to create artwork featuring the Menorah. of the Yeshiva University Center for Israel Studies, George tear, many leaders have kept up the restorations of the Arch. But the main attraction of the exhibit is the recreating of Blumenthal and by Friends and Donors of Yeshiva University Napoleon began restoring the Arch, and then made his own the “Spoils of Jerusalem” on the wall. Not only does the Museum.

Letter From the TAC President’s Desk Temima Kanarfogel

might not, understandably, school I had always enjoyed Jewish Studies, but in my perfectly be among somebody’s top mapped out schedule, my priorities only allowed me enough priorities. It’s also not always time to take a very limited number of Jewish Studies classes. I financially feasible to pay an began to toy with the hypothetical scenario in which I actually additional year of college took a number of Jewish Studies classes that I was comfortable tuition. And in response with, and the result was a choice between two options: a three- to those who say, “Don’t year plan with a densely packed schedule that gave me minimal worry, what’s another year time to breathe, or a four-year plan that was significantly more of college?” I would and do doable. say, “Another year is another Thinking about my schedule became a personal trigger of year.” anxiety. After a lot of internal debating, I concluded that there All of these are valid points was only one option that would be sustainable and self-fulfilling. and if those reasons resonate I was not going to pressure myself into getting everything done The practical differences between Stern College and other with students I encourage them to do what is right for them. in an amount of time that was unnecessarily shorter than it had universities are pretty staggering. I’ve come to experience one My intentions are not to preach until I’ve converted you to to be. I was going to take the unconventional route and stay of those differences in particular whose impact is quite often my personal graduation path. I merely want to counter those for another year. Once I reached that decision, the weight of overlooked by the Stern student body: the rarity of staying for a stigmas that have plagued the super senior status and have my self-imposed impractical expectations was lifted and I had “super senior” year on campus. surely dissuaded many students from considering it as an never felt better. There is an overwhelming number of students at Stern who option that might be right for them. My newly synthesized schedule also gave me ample time to spend a year abroad in Israel and attend classes for 3 years on I’m 21 right now, I’ll be 23 by the time I graduate, and assuming participate in more extracurricular activities. My position as the Beren campus before graduating, while a number of other I go through medical school and residency I will be no younger TAC president was only a viable option once I knew I could students enter Stern directly from high school and graduate than 30 years old when I receive a degree in medicine. My juggle it with a more manageable academic schedule. I saw after 4 years. Though these two paths differ, both lead to friends can corroborate that since my 18th birthday I’ve spent endless opportunities in how I could spend my time in and graduation after the same amount of time. a lot of time kicking and screaming about how I can feel the outside of the classroom. The real oddballs on campus are the super seniors: people gradual formation of wrinkle after wrinkle on my face. If you We know that college can be done in 3 years. So many of our who go to Israel for a year and subsequently opt to stay on the had asked me when I began Stern if I intended on staying for predecessors have completed their college degrees in that Beren campus for 4 years anyway. Justifying a fourth year on a super senior year, I would have assuredly answered that my amount of time, completely content with their decisions–as campus can be a little difficult. For instance, one might assume plans were to finish undergrad as soon as possible so I could they should be. However, that precedent and the status quo that a pre-med student who attended a year in Israel and faces start the next chapter of my academic career. And yet, here now should not prevent you from making a personal decision as 4 additional years of medical school, plus residency which is I am, a proud senior-going-on-super-senior student, with important as this one.Whether you would like to explore other usually an addition of 3 years minimum, would take advantage another two years in Stern ahead of me. academic areas that you weren’t able to with your major and of the opportunity to graduate after 3 years instead of 4. And What influenced such a seemingly illogical decision? During core requirements, alleviate some of your anxiety from the time that would be a totally valid assumption. Even if one weren’t my first year on campus I arranged an entire schedule with all constraint that only three years of college imposes on many planning on continuing on to graduate school, the argument the courses I needed to take. With all my pre-med, Biology students, or if you simply want to take your time experiencing for finishing college in 3 years instead of 4 sells itself. major, and core-required courses taken into consideration, I what many people describe as the most liberating era of their But as one of those very pre-med students who has decided that could still manage to graduate in three years as a senior. But lives, don’t allow the fear of an additional year to prevent you a super senior year is necessary, I want to explain myself. after a few months of the year had passed, a sense of regret from making the right decision. I will be the first to admit that there are a plethora of reasons gradually sank into me, though I couldn’t initially explain why. why staying an additional year doesn’t always make practical Eventually I realized that this regret stemmed from my decision or logistical sense. Extending your time in the oftentimes to take only the classes I needed, without factoring in the so- overwhelming and stress-inducing college environment called “extraneous” classes that I wanted to take. Since high Page 11 • October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 Features

The Art of Props: An Interview with Professor Mary Creede Racheli Moskowitz

Professor Mary Creede has worked as a professional artist [essential]. I think the impact of props has a lot to do with teams, my personal collabortion with my partner John Jerard for over 30 years, and has taught Studio Art at Stern College the way the show’s directed. So I’ve seen props used to their and with the fantastic and committed artisans in our studio is for Women since 2009. She is the director and co-owner of greatest potential, and then I’ve seen occasions when they don’t one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. It’s a constant a collaborative art facility called Jerard Studio. Aside from necessarily give them that chance. A lot of the times they don’t growth experience. privately commissioned works, the studio has produced props want the props to upstage the performers but when puppets RM: What’s it like seeing the shows you’ve produced the for numerous Broadway shows, including Hamilton, The are used, for example they, become very significant and even props for? Addams Family, The Little Mermaid, and most recently Frozen. one of the characters; like the Groundhog in “Groundhog MC: It’s really good for me to see the shows we design for. She has produced work for hospitals such as Montefiore Day”. Audiences like to be wowed by ingenuity either on an But I almost wish we could see the show before we design the Medical Center and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, intimate or grand scale props. That’s one of the things that I did like about working in a and along with John Jerard, has led art programming there for RM: Do you then sometimes have to hold back or downgrade theater company is that you’d see what the intention was before pediatric patients. the props? the show was up and running. A lot of the times I’d go see a Racheli: Can you tell us a bit about your background and MC: You have to do what’s required. Now, we always make Broadway show, and I’d look at a prop and say, “I didn’t know how you came into the field? things better than they need to be made because the one thing they were going to do that with it!” Hopefully, you get some Mary Creede: I did a lot of art and theater work in high school, about Broadway is that everything really gets banged around. of this information through the rehearsals. But the rehearsal but regular [studied] academics besides that. I always thought it You have to make them almost like gym equipment! But you periods are becoming so compressed that it’s very difficult to was more of a hobby; I was afraid to have it be my sole profession, have to make sure the designer wants It the way you are making make changes to a prop based on rehearsal because you may as a lot of people who go into creative fields are. I thought that it. There’s a lot of people that are flexible because they’ve not have time before it makes it to the stage. I would always do support work, meaning that I would do the worked with our studio a long time and they trust our design RM: What do you think it takes to be successful in the art business end of the creative fields. I went to the University of capabilities, and they might not give us a drawing at all. But world? Virginia and I started as pre-commerce, and then wound up there are some designers that are very specific and if you give MC: I think that you have to be flexible. Professionally, I totally enthralled with by my fine art and theater classes. I felt them something they haven’t asked for, even if you think it’s recommend making yourself indispensable. The creative compelled to make. I became further involved in the technical better than what they asked for, it might not be appropriate for fields are growing faster than the average [growth] for other end of the theater because I was taking an introductory tech the show. professions. Our world has become so content-driven with all theater class and in the class’ textbook there was a photograph RM: What’s it been like working for a show as large as the media exposure that we have now; I’m not saying it isn’t of somebody walking on a gigantic painting and painting it with Hamilton ? challenging to get a job in a creative field. But I think it’s going a brush on a stick and I asked the instructor, “what is that” MC: Well, it’s nice to be able to have an ongoing production. to be rewarding when you do get the job. and he said, “that’s somebody painting a backdrop, that’s a We develop a lot of stuff initially and we usually prototype [In this field] I’ve had a life that has been very fulfilling but profession...if you have the skill, this is a tremendous thing to things, and what’s helpful about a show being successful and I work really hard. And you don’t really stop. I have a friend learn.” So, I did Summer Stock as an intern and learned how to having a bunch of productions come after the initial one is you says it’s like joining a motorcycle gang; it’s not like you paint backdrops. I got completely drawn into it; working on a that we can streamline our process and get a second chance to turn it off at five, it’s on all the time. When you’re not making big creative project with a group was also really inspiring as was make [the props] even better. You make a lot of discoveries for something or developing something, you probably should be. the training I received to make it possible. the first one that goes into the show. So what I do like about RM: How has teaching impacted you as an artist? RM: In your featured Thrillist video, you say that you Hamilton is we’ve done four of them–four sets of props for MC: Initially, when Professor Gardener, who used to be the “define craftsmanship as earnestness in making.” How do four different productions. There are two touring productions: Chair of the [Art] department, came and visited our studio, and you think you continue to find that earnestness every day in a Chicago production, and we just did a London production. then invited me to teach here, I was grateful for the opportunity continuing your work? Also the Design Team, David Korins, has been really great to but MC: Well, you need to take it seriously, and you need to work with as well as and the prop supervisor Denise Grillo. uncertain about my ability to communicate in the classroom question it constantly and not settle. It can be kind of dangerous RM: Do you have a favorite show that you’ve worked for? environment. We [at the studio] work a lot with kids in to say, “Oh that looks pretty good” or, “That’s enough.” I MC: I would say I have favorite props more than favorite shows. hospitals so it wasn’t like I hadn’t been teaching, and I’d had do thoroughly rework stuff, but I always move on to the next We did a horse for Hello Dolly last January that was fantastic. a lot of interns in the studio over the years. But when I started piece. I really recommend having a few pieces happening We worked with another great designer, (Santo Loquasto) and teaching more formally, it made me even more aware of simultaneously. I guess earnestness and craftsmanship [are] prop supervisor, (Pete Sarafin) to bring it off. We [also] did a everything I do intuitively. I have to re-identify everything and about not being careless, and really being “present” in the tree monster for Cinderella–I loved that, (designer William reconsider everything I’d been doing over 30 years. I have to genesis of your work. Ivey Long) it was very challenging for the actor and a great meet this demand in order help students sort out the problems RM: Why do you think props are so essential for a show’s collaboration because he performed the piece so well. in their own personal artwork, in a manner that’s appropriate success? One thing that’s nice about being exposed to so many different and specific to their individuality. It’s challenging, but it can be MC: Well, sometimes they aren’t. Sometimes Props are shows is that you get to work with so many different groups of really rewarding and feeds into my own work practice. Now it completely mimed, we’ve definitely seen that technique used. people. While the fabricating the pieces for these productions seems like the obvious next step in my Artistic and Professional It depends on the show. In some cases, they absolutely are is challenging and exciting, the collabrations with both design development.

Dr.Shanee Markovitz Berger Meets with Pope Francis at the Vatican

On Thursday, August 31, Dr. David Berger, Dean of the considered Christian-Jewish relations through a new expressed that “the fact that agreement was reached on such a Bernard Revel Graduate School of Jewish Studies and the theological framework. It expressed the importance of forming statement is itself a miracle.” Berger reported to The Observer, Rabbinical Council of America’s (RCA) Senior Advisor on positive relations with the Jewish people, condemned those “Immediately after the ceremony, I told a group of participants, Interfaith Affairs, met with Pope Francis at the Vatican along who treated Jews negatively, and dissociated the Church from both Jewish and Catholic, that the truth of this observation is with other representatives of the RCA, the Conference of the notion that all Jews should be treated as though they are illustrated by a remark attributed to Rabbi Yitzchak Hutner European Rabbis, and the Chief Rabbinate of Israel. A number guilty of Jesus’s death. In 2015, the Church released another regarding the story of the seventy Jewish translators of the of the Rabbis that attended the delegation were ordained by the statement, re-examining Christian-Jewish relations in light Torah into Greek, who were placed in seventy different rooms Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS). At the of the Second Vatican Council’s statements. It stressed that and miraculously [all] produced the same translation. ‘This,’ Vatican, Dr. Berger presented the Pope with a document titled evangelizing Jews is no longer a part of the Church’s theology. said Rav Hutner, ‘is no miracle. [However], if they had been in “Between Jerusalem and Rome: Reflections on Fifty Years of Once the Jewish rabbinic organizations and Rabbis reached out the same room…’” Nostra Aetate.” This document is historic, as it provides the to the Church to discuss delivering the document, the Church first formal statement on Christian-Jewish relations issued by arranged a meeting with the Pope, welcoming the Rabbis, and the Orthodox rabbinate. It is also historic due to the Pope’s endorsing the document. In accordance with Rabbi Joseph B. recognition of its significance. The document expresses Soloveitchik’s stance that theological exchanges in Christian- gratitude to the Church for having shifted its stance on Judaism Jewish dialogue should be avoided, the document focuses on from antagonistic to much more accepting and positive. It also shared values rather than on theology. However, it does state emphasizes shared values between Judaism and Christianity. that Christians have a “special status” due to their belief in “We hope that the document will help to facilitate continuing one God, the same God that created the universe and chose improvement in the Jewish community’s relationship with the Jewish people. The document draws on shared values and a very important institution of global research,” wrote Dr. interests between the two religions, calling for a promising Berger to The Observer. future which includes combating anti-semitism, and bringing Rabbi Arie Folger, Chief Rabbi of Vienna, created the first religion and sanctity into the regular daily lives of all people. draft of this document in 2015, and remained very involved Dr. Berger explained to The Observer that the document throughout its developing stages. Rabbi Folger was inspired represents a “moment of unity— on a very sensitive matter— to create the document in 2015 because it marked the fifty- among three Orthodox Rabbinic organizations on different year milestone of the Second Vatican Council’s monumental continents with diverse membership and constituencies.” statements on Christian-Jewish relations. Those statements, Dr. Berger shared that at the presentation ceremony, the Pope Opinions October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 12

TikkunDalya Hirt Olam: Also for the Orthodox

My family came to this country as refugees. Yes, a Jewish family. Yes, in the more recent years. In I was proud to be his speech to the United Nations in September– working for an just prior to Rosh Hashana, the Jewish organization that does New Year–Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu reflected on the contributions such amazing work, Israel has made to the world over the past year but I was taken aback and guaranteed that Israel will continue to when members of the contribute to all nations of the world in this Orthodox community coming year. He then listed a few of the amazing did not approve of my ways Israel was able to help various nations over choice of chessed. the past year. One of the things he mentioned was the work of Save a Child’s Heart. He referred to the impact made by the Israeli non-profit organization when impoverished by offering a substantial gift in a dignified manner, by extending a suitable he said, “you see it in the eyes of an Arab child, who was flown to Israel to undergo a life-saving loan, or by helping them find employment or establish themselves in business so as to make it heart operation.” Throughout his speech, Bibi put a lot of emphasis on how proud Israel is to unnecessary for them to become dependent on others. Once again, when it comes to an ideal be able to provide help to others. If he had made this speech just a few months ago, I would have embodiment of this, SACH is the first organization to come to my mind. The reason for this is thought it was an important message for the rest of the world but after my experience this past that not only do they fly children in desperate need of heart surgery to Israel to receive lifesaving summer, I realize it’s an important message for the Jewish community as well. treatment, but SACH also trains doctors and nurses from these developing countries so that This past summer, I had the good fortune to witness the amazing work done by Save a Child’s their countries can become self-reliant. Once there are enough trained pediatric heart surgeons, Heart firsthand. I spent my summer vacation as a volunteer helping care for the SACH children children won’t need to be flown to Israel to receive treatment; they’ll be able to get the proper in Holon, Israel. These children have congenital heart defects and are brought to Israel from treatment in their home countries. developing countries to receive lifesaving heart surgery. I was proud to be working for an Our community is rightfully concerned that the goal of the BDS movement is to delegitimize organization that does such amazing work, but I was taken aback when members of the Orthodox the state of Israel. Both in Europe and on college campuses across America, Israel is viewed as a community did not approve of my choice of chessed. One woman bluntly told me she did not pariah state and, consequently, anti-semitism is on the rise. Israel’s humanitarian missions play think it was appropriate for me to be helping non-Jews when there are so many non-profit an important role toward its acceptance into the community of nations. We cannot underestimate organizations that specifically help Jews. the value of the goodwill that is created by an organization like Save a Child’s Heart. In my defense, I found myself quoting passages from the book of Isaiah. Similar to Bibi in his I wasn’t able to change this woman’s mind, and what she said and the reality of the selfishness that speech to the UN, I explained that God made Israel a light unto the nations to bring salvation to sometimes exists in our community continues to trouble me. At the end of the day, providing help the ends of the earth and that SACH is the one organization that I know of that truly epitomizes to anyone, regardless of race, religion, gender or nationality, is an incredible act of kindness. I this description. I expounded that I too want to help Israel be a light unto other nations which is hope that Prime Minister Netanyahu’s message from his pre-Rosh Hashanah speech to the UN why I chose to volunteer for them. will inspire others to believe that and to extend that same compassion. Moreover, the Rambam’s Mishna Torah lists the levels of giving charity from the least to most honorable ways. The highest form of charity is to help sustain a person before they become

LookingAilin Elyasi Inwards Staff Writer I love New York: the hustle and bustle, the skyscrapers and sass, and of course the culture in the shackles of conformity, with no way of escape.” and community of Jews. But over sukkot break, I had the chance to experience Judaism under Elana Luban, SCW ‘19, from the Yeshivish community of South Bend, Indiana, agrees that the the force of a completely different culture, and it opened my eyes to the way that the Jewish judgement stifles any sort of individuality: “There was no such thing as serving God in any other community might be able to change for the better. way than what [the community] perceived as the torah lifestyle. If you would do anything other sit Firstly, I want to give credit where credit is due. Jewish communities in New York and in the in a kollel or help your husband sit in a kollel, you would be thought of as lesser.” United States are generally vibrant and well-intentioned. The abundance of kosher restaurants When reflecting on the judgement in her Modern Orthodox religious town of Cedarhurst, ensures that no one is left wanting better culinary options and the synagogues prepare charity Racheli Moskowitz, SCW ‘19, reflects that her community judges physical attributes: “How you funds to assist members in need. From shiurim to services, Jews in the United States live a good dress, where you go to school, how long your sleeves are, how fancy your clothes are…[these life with ample freedom of religion. I am only offering criticism because I believe most people attributes] quickly place you into categories.” This type of attitude causes people to conform to want to make the American Jewish community better for everyone, and I see a problem: religious the “accepted” mindset. communities often come with a side of judgement, which can add unnecessary pressure to Jews At the same time, not all communities experience the same pressure I describe. In Highland Park, New Jersey, Libbie Brooks, Syms ‘19, stresses, “I do not find much judgment. Highland Park is This way of a special community.” Thus, the judgment in the practicing Jewish community does not come as a tradeoff for practicing Torah—a community can be religious and religion inspired judge minimally, which is something I experienced in me; everyone in Colombia. the community The Latin American Jewish community in the country tries the best of Colombia embodies this value of judging minimally. they can, while The city of Bogota contains 3,000 Jews, which is just simultaneously a fraction of the 1.8 million Jewish residents in New York State. Therefore, there is only one Sephardi shul providing love that I was able to visit for the first days of Sukkot. By and respect to virtue of its small community, people of all different the rest of the religious levels pray together and form a community community. whose members accept each other. Perhaps due to the more open nature of South American culture, everyone in Bogota feels comfortable with the rest of the people in their community, regardless of how the who just want to lead a Torah lifestyle. individuals practice their religion. This way of practicing religion inspired me; everyone in the Jewish communities throughout the United States contain a superficial pressure and judgment community tries the best they can, while simultaneously providing love and respect to the rest of that discounts spiritual connection to God through mitzvot. For example: giving someone the the community. stink eye in synagogue because of her sleeve length, holding other sects of Judaism in contempt The diversity that exists at Stern allows most of us to understand different backgrounds, but or as lesser than your own, and not seeing Judaism as one united people all striving in their I challenge any person reading this to go back to her community and practice celebrating the mission of connecting to God, but instead as a competition to achieve a higher position in your differences between people instead of judging them. In other words, I challenge people to look community through putting people down. inwards instead of outwards. And perhaps one day the judgement will cease, and people will leave Since Stern students come from such diverse backgrounds, several students agreed to share their Jewish communities with nothing but respect and love for all fellow Jews. their feelings about the judgment they feel in their respective and widely differing Jewish communities. In Chassidic communities like Borough Park, Brooklyn, the judgment seems particularly intense. Molly Meisels, SCW ‘20, who grew up in Borough Park, says, “Judgment in the Jewish community leads to the death of individuality. The pressure of the judgment binds us Page 13 • October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 Opinions

“And Justice for All”: Yeshiva University’s Approach to Pre-Law Tikkun Olam: Also for the Orthodox Rachel Lelonek

Since the age of eleven, I knew what I wanted my career path with little representation downtown. This became such a big who have been previously working with the Wilf advisor but are to be. For me, there was one option and one option only: to problem that many of the female pre-law students did not know graduating in 2018 still have to work with her, someone who is become a lawyer. Inspired by my late grandmother’s neglect whether or not the club was renewed on the Beren campus, and rarely on the Beren campus and hasn’t provided me much help and mistreatment in a rehabilitation facility, I’ve always wanted who was even supposed to represent us. to begin with. I respect the advisor for her career as a lawyer to fight for those who couldn’t fight for themselves. I’ve wanted And then there’s the pre-law advisor--or lack thereof. Until and for her work as a pre-law advisor, but in my experience with to represent the victims with no one to help them and I’ve recently, the Beren and Wilf campuses shared a joint pre-law her, she was always running late, giving me counterintuitive wanted to right the wrongs done against them by perpetrators advisor, who was based on the Wilf campus and spent much of suggestions and not giving me advice that I thought would of the law. her time uptown. Once or twice a month, she came downtown genuinely benefit me. Despite being a small school, Yeshiva University is known for a to assist the female students, but appointments with her were Now a senior in college, I’m still dead-set on my desire to lot of things. From biology and pre-med to BIMA and business, usually inconvenient because they were during classes, and become a lawyer. I’ll be taking a gap year after I graduate to both Yeshiva College on the Wilf Campus and Stern College the advisor generally left early in the day before Stern students study for my LSAT exam and to make some extra money to on the Beren Campus have strong departments and mentors had the opportunity to meet with her. For me, it got to a point save up for the hefty expense of three years of law school. And to help guide the students in their future pursuits and careers. where a combination of advice from Academic Advisement yet, I have one more year in Stern, one where I’ll be needing and lawyers at my internship were more useful than what I was more help from Academic Advisement and my internship than hearing from the pre-law advisor. I would have liked because the assets I require are not on the “When applying to Yeshiva Univer- This year, my fellow pre-law students have been more vocal Beren campus, from visiting law schools to Pre-Law Society about the disconnect, especially about not having a pre- events to pre-law advisors. Was YU everything I thought it sity, there was one requirement for law advisor on the Beren campus for everyday needs of the would be? Well, no; some things have been much better than I me in order to achieve my dreams: a students. To solve this, Yeshiva University hired a pre-law expected and some things have not. But in the case of pre-law advisor specifically for the Beren Campus, an academic advisor resources at Stern, I’ve been increasingly stunted in my growth great pre-law advisor or hired to help the pre-law students. There are a few problems and I’m tired of sitting back and allowing the university step on department.” with this approach. For starters, the new advisor did not go the Beren pre-law women. While I may not yet be a lawyer, this to law school (like the Wilf Campus advisor did) and does not is my way of fighting for myself and my peers, my way of giving And then there’s the pre-law students. When applying to know about the LSAT exam or what law schools in particular voice to those wronged. Yeshiva University, there was one requirement for me in order are looking for from applicants. Another point of concern is to achieve my dreams: a great pre-law advisor or department. that the new advisor is simply an academic advisor and does not But there is one difference in the way the university treats specifically cater towards the needs of pre-law students. And its male and female pre-law students: they treat the Yeshiva while the Wilf advisor will likely train the new hire to be able to College men well, while forgetting about the Stern College assist pre-law students, that probably won’t be enough, and the women. Pre-law events and law school visits generally take new advisor might be unable to fully anticipate students’ needs place on the Wilf Campus during the men’s dinner hour (5:45- due to her lack of background. I’m sure she’s a very competent 6:30 pm), making it extremely difficult for the women on Beren in general academic advising, the field she was trained in. But to get to the event on time or even at all. Any events downtown not having gone to law school and not having any previous law on the Beren campus usually take place on Fridays, when many experience makes me hesitant to trust her advice about any students have already gone home for Shabbat. There are also matters for my future career. issues with the Pre-Law Society, being mostly vocal uptown The final problem which concerns me most is that students

Anxiety Is Not My Modus Operandi Looking Inwards Chaviva Freedman

It comes out of nowhere, and starts with my heartbeat. It goes going to be labeled as a loser, or even worse, unstable. But I do–those are a dime a dozen. But having stable mental health from a normal pulse to a quicker one. Then a quicker one. It learned that It’s actually better for your loved ones to know will give us the internal strength to go the next fun event, and continues until it’s almost as if my pulse is a fast-beating drum. what is going on with you, when the alternative is shying away feel good about going. Then my chest tightens. and I get short of breath. Like there’s from something that seems to be programmed in your brain. So to everyone in school who is battling anxiety and isn’t saying something that is continuously weighing my entire body I did just that on the first day of college, when I told my new anything: don’t make yourself feel bad about having it. Mental down. It works simultaneously with the quickening heartbeat, roommates, girls that I had never met until that morning, that health is nothing to be ashamed of talking about, and discussing working in sync until the natural reaction is to burst. It could I battled anxiety. And you know what? They were fine with it! the topic in public might actually make you feel better. And to come in spurts of crying or yelling. Either way, it comes in as a They even appreciated that I had the guts to tell them something those who don’t hide what you’re going through: be proud that crescendo of emotions and leaves a mess to deal with at the end. so personal so outright. It brought me closer to my roommates, you are open about something that is so personal. Anxiety is This is what my anxiety attacks feel like. I’ve been living with a and when I go through an anxiety attack, those girls are still nothing to scoff at and by making yourselves vulnerable and moderate anxiety disorder since I was eleven years old. There some of the first people I call when I need help. being open about it, you are on your way to being a better, and are days when I completely forget that I live with this condition, Within our school community, there are many of us who battle most important, a healthier you. days when I forget that I keep emergency anxiety pills hidden anxiety. I can tell you that within the group of friends that I away in my backpack for no one but me to see or use. But then hang out with on a regular basis, a number of us live with the there are days when there’s just no way to stop the attacks. They disorder. They just happen to not be as vocal about it as I am. usually come when I’m in a high state of stress, maybe from a But that doesn’t mean that no one in school isn’t suffering. Mental health big paper due or the opening night of the school play. I have It just means that we need to learn to be more tolerant of our ways of handling it and not letting anyone know I’m having an friends’ situations and how to help them deal with whatever is nothing to be attack, but anxiety is something that I continue to battle, even anxieties they suffer from. as I write this piece about it. I’ve learned over the years that sometimes anxiety can be ashamed of talking Why am I taking the time to pour my heart and soul into this hindering and cause me to not want to do anything. There are piece? Because for millennials, mental health is a taboo topic. times where I have to skip out on friends’ weddings and miss We seem to think that talking about mental health is going to out on fun opportunities because the anxiety is plaguing me about, and discussing brand a stigma on our foreheads. But why is having an anxiety too much. But during those desperate moments where guilt disorder something to be ashamed of? Isn’t it healthier to talk rises along with the anxiety, I’ve learned that I can’t feel bad the topic in public about things rather than hold them in? about not going somewhere. I can regret it later on, but at I can tell you from experience that admitting to your friends any specific moment in time, my mental and emotional health might actually make that you have an anxiety disorder can be intimidating. I went is more important than someone or something else. When through middle school and high school living with the fear friends of mine are having their own anxiety attacks, I tell them you feel better. that if I said something about my disorder to someone, I was that there’s always going to be another wedding or fun thing to Opinions October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 14

WeIrwin Leventer Should Talk More Staff Writer This summer I experienced what changed me and continues singing out to the streets of Montreal. I wouldn’t have learned and is what compelled me to write this in the first place. Running to. The things I learned over the 4,664 miles of road tripping to waltz from the ballroom dancer in Virginia, to swing dance around as a student there is ample room for excuses: “There that I did, reaching all the way down to Mississippi and all the at a karaoke bar in Nashville, Tennessee. I would have missed are too many people here, I’ll never meet them all!” “I don’t way up to Montreal, are lessons I want to share with you. The the history behind the color variations in the Washington have time right now for new friends.” “They’re all in a rush, number one rule that should guide your explorations of the Monument. I would never have heard the touching gratitude of there’s no way they want to talk.” The problem is that these world is that you are down and up for whatever comes your an elderly woman, exuberant that she could now work the cash excuses become habit and then lose their status as excuses. way; your mantra: “let’s do it”. As an experiencer, your job is register after months of recovering from injury. They become facts of our lives: I will not speak to new people to experience, to effloresce, and not to govern. When we push That night on the beach with drinks and Polish faces, deep unless I must. But when I walk through the YU campus, I can’t the limits of our comfort zones and let the world take us, we do conversation while only the waves told of time’s passing, would help but be inundated with the feeling of the uniqueness of my more things that we remember, and more things that are worth never have been. The poem in my journal, each line composed situation. I am surrounded by people who I can immediately remembering. by a new person, would not exist; nonexistent would be this relate to because more than sharing humanness, we share Such a mindset compelled me to hike those 11 miles through the pouring rain up Mount Cammerer in Tennessee. It is the reason I left the trail and made my way through the creeks and If I hadn’t gone out of my way to up the gorgeous waterfalls. It is what brought me to cliff jump bring others into my life I would forty feet into distant waters. These experiences came only have missed out on so many through accepting the world as it came. amazing experiences. Far away from home, the world an open highway, I realized more than ever that when I go on trips, I don’t go for the fundamental values. My eyes fall on my fellow student and I places; I go for the people. When I say this I mean more than realize that both of us are the product of a heartrending past of the people I’m with and the experiences I create with them. a nation whose goal is to fill the world with light. We both work The people I intend to mention are everywhere; they are on tirelessly to become worthy expressions of that aspiration. I your trip whether you plan them to be or not. They share this feel so compelled to speak to humans because they’re human; world with you whether you like it or not. With the highest how much more so do I feel this for the people who surround exhortation of my deepest inclination, I implore you to learn to me here. like it. I implore you to learn to love it. I close with the anecdote that inspired me to write this piece. I If I had not spoken to the people I was surrounded with my trip walked towards the elevator from my dorm room in Morg and would have lost so much of its luster. I made an effort to go out someone I slightly recognized was there waiting. Always the of my way to strike up conversations, to ask people questions: choice: do we connect? Do we treat each other like stones? I to connect. “What’s your favorite sound?” I’d ask. “How have saw that he was wearing a suit jacket and I commented on it you grown in the last month?” “What’s a parenting skill you with a smile: “All Jewed out! Why so fancy?” He told me that think is vital?” “What are you grateful for in this very moment?” he was on his way to prayer. I expressed how touching and Not only did this allow me to speak with interesting people, it canto that artfully connects people so beautifully. I would never thoughtful it is that he prepares for prayer in such a meaningful made so many strangers expressedly happy, but it also brought have gotten a group of people to sing together on the ferry. I way. To this he turned to me with somber pride and said in a low out thoughtfulness that was novel and appreciated. would never have met that Amish family and worked on their but confident voice, “My father passed away this past summer Very often these verbal exchanges metamorphose into different farm for a day. The list goes on, and I plan to keep writing it. and so I took this on. It’s something he would do.” I looked kinds of connections. They allow you to share your mantra with When you choose to connect to the people around you, when him straight in the eye and expressed condolences for his loss. someone else. If I hadn’t gone out of my way to bring others you actively pursue shared experiences, the world makes them I told him how beautiful what he is doing is. I wished him the into my life I would have missed out on so many amazing easy to come by. most meaningful of prayers and walked out of that elevator with experiences. I wouldn’t have jammed guitar with a Quebecer, Where all of this hits home is the critical point I want to make, a burning need to share the message: we should talk more.

What About YU and American Jewry? Miriam Pearl Klahr Managing Editor The Investiture of Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman was an exciting day For a university to be relevant and vibrant, there needs to be Orthodox Jew, a value that is interestingly not promoted in in YU’s history. Perhaps this was especially true among the a give-and-take. The school must be open to external ideas Israel? Will new community service projects and student students in attendance, who had all never been present at an and influences, but it must also have its own ideas to offer. A opportunities based in the United States be introduced? investiture before, and were filled with an unprecedented strong university should look outwards, but it cannot forget I know an Investiture speech is always broad, and that there will excitement regarding the future of their university. What drew those who comprise it and the many individuals who look up to be time for President Berman to address each of these issues them, myself included, was more than the free food; we were all it. Over the course of the Shabbat that President Berman spent throughout his presidency. We have also seen Dr. Berman eager to hear President Berman’s vision for Yeshiva University. on the Beren Campus for the first time, a few students who did engage the American Jewish community in a powerful way with Yet as I listened to President Berman’s beautiful speech, not spend a gap year in Israel noted to me that his emphasis on the Reflection on Charlottesville faculty blog post that he led. It I couldn’t help but feel a sense of disappointment. The Israel and what YU could learn from the “seminary experience” was a project that created much hope for unique and new ways question of “What does Yeshiva University stand for?” was made them feel left out and isolated. As I listened to the speech the YU can engage with its broader American community. But posed. But the five torot offered as an answer were a vague, at the Investiture, I wondered if YU students with no interest in I just wish this could have been mentioned in some way at the though inspiring, message that could apply to many a Jewish making Aliyah now felt isolated as well. Investiture. institution. Then the speech shifted to outlining specific Yeshiva University’s support, admiration, partnership, and At the Investiture, President Berman concluded his speech with initiatives: expanding STEM offerings, creating scholarships love for the State of Israel is an important part of its identity, the story of a Beren campus student who called out “Rabbi, we for students who excel in community service, and foreign but there is so much more to it. I enthusiastically wait to hear are rooting for you.” I am writing this article because I too am relationships between YU and other universities across the about the rest. Programs like GPATs have changed women’s rooting for Rabbi Berman and eagerly await hearing a more globe. A common theme among them was Israel. President Talmud study throughout America. How will our school expanded vision for Yeshiva University’s future and the role it Berman cited men and women who served in tzahal as those continue to define and expand women’s Torah learning? will play within American Jewry. eligible for the new scholarships, along with bridge programs And what will Torah learning for men at YU look like; will between Hebrew University or Bar-Ilan as the new inter- the diversity of Torah learning university global relationships. These examples reminded me options be strengthened in any of a concern I have had since first hearing Dr. Berman speak, way? and helped me realize what I felt was missing from the address. Will YU engage with complex In many ways, Yeshiva University is known as the United academic issues and their States flagship Modern Orthodox institution. The lessons and relationship to Judaism? How norms students are introduced to in the walls of YU do not will the University balance only influence them; they impact the entire American Jewish Orthodoxy and the inclusion of community. Yet I have never heard President Berman speak the LGBTQ members within its of YU in the context of the American Orthodox community. community? As Akiva Schick When I first met Dr. Berman at a Shabbat on the Beren campus, noted in his Commentator every conversation eventually circled back to Israel, and the article, what will become of the initiatives he outlined at the Investiture seemed to do the same. school’s liberal arts curriculum? I heard how YU can gain from Israel’s many start-ups, spiritual Will YU continue to promote learning programs, excellent masters degrees and heroic the value of a well-rounded soldiers. But I still haven’t heard about what YU will contribute education as key to creating active to the world, and especially, American Jewry. leaders and engaged Modern October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 15 Opinions

When Common Decency Isn’t So Common, Part II We Should Talk More Molly Meisels

At the end of the 2012-2 I stand in the hallway of Brookdale paraded in the applications appalled me; it’s no wonder women If any of us saw this flyer, we’d be enraged. Why must these Residence Hall, and stare at the flyer hanging on the wall across at Stern refuse to identify as feminists. Women are afraid that if individuals mock and degrade the right of Jewish CCNY from my room. It boasts Superman in his full glory, and from they’re self-proclaimed feminists, they’ll never be able to find a students to host a pro-Israel event? They don’t need to be afar, it seems like an innocent flyer promoting a movie. At a husband. They’re terrified that if they stand up for their beliefs, Zionists, but why go this far? You might have someone tell you closer glance, though, I notice the following text surrounding the men at Wilf will see them as radicals threatening Orthodoxy. they meant it as a joke, and they were simply trolling the club, the famed superhero: Who wants to date a girl who advocates for the “yetzer hara”? but you know better. You know that this is a blatant act of anti- Who wants to date a girl who believes in empowerment to Semitism. Stern for housewives presents: Superman the point that she might overpower you? I have found that It’s not much different with the Superman flyer. When I saw the Brought to you by the misoginistic [sic] club many Stern women feed into these stereotypes and stigmas flyer, I didn’t laugh. Sexism isn’t funny in my eyes. Sexism, like Sponsored by: Put Wonder Woman back in the Kitchen Club surrounding feminism. They despise feminism; they mock it anti-Semitism, is dangerous and chilling. The flyer was idiotic, and Tired of Women’s Rights & co. and roll their eyes at the mention of it. They demean it because because it served no purpose but to dishearten feminists at this they either agree with the stereotypes or don’t care enough to university. On the wall right next to this flyer is the flyer the YU Feminists change them. All we, as members of the YU Feminists Club, wish to do is Club used to promote the screening of Wonder Woman that And that’s okay. I don’t need the support of every student empower Jewish women (and men) to take control of their lives, we hosted on September 14th. The Wonder Woman flyers in this school; I don’t even need the support of 25% of the and be leaders of their destinies. We want to encourage bold were mostly removed after the event, so you could imagine student body. The YU Feminists Club was not started for the career choices, and the breaking of gender norms, to create a my surprise when the flyer was rehung (but with a companion) misogynists, but for those searching for a space to discuss better, more equal society. At the Wonder Woman event, we right across from my dorm room. gender equality without feeling judged by their peers, and to didn’t sit in a circle and practice witchcraft, nor did we create The first emotion I felt when seeing the flyer was anger. I was question the stigmas surrounding feminism. If an individual voodoo dolls of men we dislike. All we did was watch a movie of angry that individuals would take the time to mock a club at this school does not agree with the notion of feminism or female empowerment, and revel in the beauty and strength of attempting to promote positive change on campus, especially when this change is incredibly difficult. The anger then morphed into dejection and disappointment. I was disappointed that my fellow YU students, whoever they were, could disrespect their All we, as members of the YU Feminists peers by posting divisive, offensive content in the halls of our dormitories. I debated writing this article. After the sexism and backlash Club, wish to do is empower Jewish women the YU Feminists Club has received, I’ve attempted to save my battles for the right moments. Everything said by me and (and men) to take control of their lives, and other members of the board will be heard by most of the YU community, and so we must be cautious. However, I think it’s time I speak out. be leaders of their destinies. I’ve come to realize that students at YU, both male and female, imagine the president of the YU Feminists Club to be a bra-burning recluse, who despises men and wishes for the destruction of Orthodoxy. They imagine the members of our club to be antagonizing individuals, attempting to invade their safe spaces with images of a “toxic” gender equality that’s sure to ruin the traditionalism that they hold dear. But, to the surprise of most, my co-president and I are not bra-burners, and the members of our board and club do not despise men. What we are is a group of individuals dedicated to smashing the stigmas surrounding feminism. The goal of our club is to introduce the YU community to gender equality, to make them comprehend even a fraction of the struggles faced by women in the Jewish community, and the world at large. We want to open minds and hearts to the notion of institutionalized sexism, because as Malala Yousafzai once said, “We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back.” It hasn’t been easy. Of course, I never expected it to be. When you introduce something like feminism on an overtly conservative campus, there is bound to be some criticism. There is bound to be the occasional sexist comment, or misogynistic action. But some of the events that have occurred since the start of this semester have led me to believe that there is a decency problem on this campus. I’ve spoken about decency before. Last semester I wrote an article in the YU Observer about an incident with a gay friend of mine, and the mockery a few Stern girls made of him. I wrote about the dearth of common decency on this campus, and the lack of respect people at YU tend to have towards individuals what the club stands for, that’s alright. I respect and support Israeli superstar, Gal Gadot. who are different than they are. Change seems to bring out the all opinions. If you know me, you know that I’ll debate with All we want is respect. All we’d like is the same decency granted worst in the YU populace, and that needs to change. you strongly about those opinions, but at the end of the day, to the Israel Club, the Pre-Law Society, and Active Minds. We’d At the start of the semester, I posted an application for the everyone has the right to believe what they’d like to believe. like to be treated as any other club would like to be treated at club’s open board positions in the Facebook group, YU What I find utterly reprehensible, though, is the lack of decency this school. Marketplace. What resulted was astonishing: we received and respect regarding beliefs of fellow students. You don’t We have a lot of work to do to get to that point. We cannot 15-17 “troll” applications, including three applications from have to like feminism, but why must you bash it? You might not progress as a university if a club such as ours is sneered at by Ben Shapiro, one from Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, agree with what we have to say, but why troll us with countless individuals when we attend the Beren Club Fair, or mocked and one from Robin Thicke and his passion for “blurring the misogynistic, immature applications? Why post that flyer on by members of the university on Facebook. We cannot move lines” (meaning, when a woman says “no” she really means the walls of our dormitory? If you’d really like to speak with me forward if we are afraid to attend the Wilf Club Fair, because “yes”). Some of the applications made me laugh. I sat and about your opinions of the club, you are more than welcome to we’d be hated on by the men uptown. marveled at all the effort and time put into submitting these approach me; I would be interested in an open conversation. This university has a responsibility. We have the responsibility troll applications, and I applaud those who made them–I Trust me, I can take a joke. I know the stereotype about of maintaining a moral high ground. We are a university of was thoroughly entertained. Additionally, I received many feminists and their lack of a sense of humor, but I will not laugh Jews, and we must make all Jews feel welcome. We must make applications which were submitted by one individual using the at utter incompetency. An analogy I can provide, for all the pro- all students in this school feel like they are being respected. name of a friend, as some sort of a practical joke. Because, yes, Israel individuals reading this, is as follows: imagine if Jewish The administration must condemn acts of sexism and misogyny I know, gender equality and institutionalized sexism are utterly students at City College posted a flyer for a pro-Israel event that have recently run rampant at YU. We cannot advance, as hilarious. In all seriousness, though, I don’t believe any other that they are hosting on campus. They return the next day to a people or a school, without looking at ourselves and fixing club has gone through this process when searching for board discover another flyer hanging next to theirs, reading: our ingrained prejudices. Just because we’re feminists, doesn’t members. mean we’re not human. One application called feminism the “yetzer hara”, and one CCNY for BDS presents: Apartheid applicant wrote that he wanted to be on the board because Brought to you by the Anti-Israel Club “my shadchan told me it’s bad for my shidduch prospects, Sponsored by: Put Jews back in Europe club, and Tired of and I absolutely do not want to get married.” The stereotypes Israel’s Rights to Exist and co. Opinions October 2017/ Cheshvan 5778 • Page 16

EfratIdentity Malachi Crisis

About 2000 years ago, the Jewish people were sent into exile. Since then, we’ve been scattered across the earth and forced to learn how to integrate ourselves into the societies and cultures that encompass us. Consequently, some Jewish people are plagued with confusion and apathy towards their identities, and slowly start to lose their religious identities. I grew up in an Israeli household. My parents are full-fledged Israelis and my grandparents are from Yemen, but I am fully absorbed into American society. As a Modern Orthodox Jew, I’ve encountered many internal conflicts as to how to lead my life on a spiritual and cultural level. Since I was a little girl, I’ve posed many questions relating to my religious and general identity. What am I? Who am I? The varying customs and attitudes that circle my life have only created a whirlwind of insecurities and uncertainties. Where should my focus be and my allegiance lie? Am I an Israeli girl with an American accent because I grew up in America, and was always too shy to speak in Hebrew at home with my Israeli parents? Or am I an American girl who rocks out to an Israeli playlist, eats her mom’s exceptional, homemade Israeli food in class, and doesn’t care what others think because I’m just “zoremet” (easygoing)? Or am I a Yemenite girl who doesn’t know much about her ancestors and the preservation of their rich, authentic Jewish life back in Yemen, but pretends to be conscious of it all Over time, I have found an answer to these questions, and to and is incredibly proud of it nonetheless? the dilemma at large. Based on my experiences, I have come to It’s not easy bouncing back and forth between these three believe that the American and Israeli ways of life complement worlds, but the prime conflict lies between the American and Since I was a one another. They each bring something unique to the table; Israeli ones. What’s most difficult is trying to incorporate the while Americans have a vision and a plan, the Israelis guide two into my everyday life, and trying to juggle appreciating and its fruition and execute those plans. Basically, America plans respecting both identities properly. As an American, I comply little girl, I’ve the party and Israel starts the party. The Americans are the with the unspoken rules for everything that seem to exist, as dreamers and believers while the Israelis are the initiators and a good abiding citizen should. What I’ve concluded is that posed many leaders. They actualize potential and bring those dreams into the nature of Americans is that of order and structure. People reality. Since I was raised in both cultures, for years I’ve been here mostly seem put together, with their careers in one hand questions trying to determine which one defines my essence and mission and a Starbucks coffee in the other. My character matches in life; but one day, it dawned on me. The answer is both, not up almost perfectly with that of a true American: organized, because I’m part Israeli and part American, but because I am proper, and free-thinking. Occasionally, though, I feel guilty relating to my Jewish; Judaism is the perfect fusion of the two. Not only are being an American-Israeli because I have the privilege of living we huge visionaries and believers, but also leaders and a light with so many opportunities and freedoms in this country, while religious and unto the nations. We love and appreciate all foods, highly value escaping all the obligations of living in Israel (like serving in family and friends and know how to choose our battles wisely. I the IDF), unlike all my cousins. am not American, modern-day Israeli or Yemenite; I am simply In this regard, I feel only half Israeli because I’ve never done general identity. Jewish. I am a Jewish woman who has walked upon foreign my part and contributed or sacrificed anything for Israel, like music that can blast your eardrums. Israelis exude the perfect soil for far too long and is ready to come back home to the land true Israeli citizens have. I don’t have a sharp awareness of my kind of warmth you need on a winter’s day along with good, of Israel, not as a modern-day Israeli but as a Jew who truly country and sense of responsibility weighing on my shoulders friendly vibes surrounding them. belongs there. from birth, like many Israelis do. At times, suddenly, I feel the For Israelis, it’s all about family and enjoying life to the fullest. The blood running through my veins is purely Jewish, and no tides turn, though, and the American side of me doesn’t seem These are the values I take pride in as an Israeli. Now, because other culture or society can contaminate it. As hard as the world to fit in so comfortably anymore. There are moments in which I of these two distinct mentalities, I experience a rift in my life has fought to see us disintegrate into the dust under their feet say things that are unreasonable within America’s social norms between both worlds. On the one hand, my heart is welcoming through assimilation, we fought back harder and stayed loyal to but are completely acceptable in Israeli society. Moreover, to all and I’m flexible with my schedule, as an Israeli, but on the our identity. And even though I do joke around at times over I often whip out an Israeli phrase or slang word without even other hand, I lean towards a more methodical and rigid lifestyle, which culture is superior, it’s all just fun and games. I really noticing the blank stares I get from all directions because as an American. Even though these cultures are different in am convinced that I’m living the best of both worlds. At the people don’t understand what I’m saying. It’s simply instinctive major ways, it’s the small, silly things that occupy my mind end of every day, I ask myself, “who am I?” and “am I acting and I can’t help it. and decisions as well, for example, should I ask for hummus or accordingly with who I am?” and although the answer is deep, Another notable facet of Israeli culture is the friendliness; ketchup on my sandwich? Should I go out with my friends or its truth runs even deeper in me and you and in all of us. anyone can be considered a part of an Israeli’s friend group. with my parents? Should I bargain and argue a bit (inject some

They go even further, and will invite you over for a “mangal” chutzpa into every conversation) or simply accept things as (BBQ) with dozens of various dips and salads along with a they are and walk away?

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