THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF STERN COLLEGE FOR WOMEN AND SY SYMS SCHOOL OF BUSINESS The Yeshiva University OBSERVER WWW.YUOBSERVER.ORG VOLUME LXIII ISSUE I September 2017/ ELUL 5777

YU Launches Makor College Experience Program for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Sarah Casteel News Editor education, or have been granted some kind of state-funded training and building general life skills. This includes exploring Beginning in the fall of 2017, services for individuals with intellectual or developmental specific job fields in the classroom, real-life experience through Yeshiva University, in partnership with the Makor Disability disabilities in the past. Finally, applicants are required to job placements on campus, and academic advisors. The Services (formerly Women’s League Community Residences), have attended a high school program for students with such advisors will work with the students to determine an individual has launched its first year of the Makor College Experience disabilities. career path and to further develop career-building skills to help Program. A truly unprecedented and specifically designed them get there. In terms of life skills, the students will learn program, the Makor College Experience is a three-year, non- Each of the three years of the program has a specific focus. important skills such as cooking, traveling and budgeting. degree program for young men with intellectual disabilities. The first year will offer pre-vocational and job readiness The program is the first college dual curriculum for this type skills, interview training, workplace etiquette and budgeting. In addition to the secular education and various life skills of students. Participants will not only enjoy the specialized The second year is focused on “career exploration and incorporated into the program, Makor will offer a strong and education of the program itself, but a new and exciting experiences.” There will be opportunities to experience and meaningful Torah element as well. Participants will be assigned opportunity to become a part of the YU community. try out various jobs, as well as chances to be employed around a chavrusa and will spend their mornings in the various batei The program is geared towards young men with intellectual the YU campus and at local vendors and organizations. At the midrash on the Wilf Campus. “At Makor, we believe that disabilities between the ages of 18-25 who are looking to end of the second year, students will declare a major. They may when the students have a natural enjoyment in their Torah further their education after finishing high school. While choose from majors such as office and business skills, retail and learning, this inspiration will carry over to be their success in other young men tend to go to Israel and then college, this food services, communal work or human services. The third our program,” says Rabbi Feintuch, Rebbe and Educational community of individuals is inhibited from such opportunities year will focus on “supported employment.” The program Coordinator of the program. The chavrusas, minyanim and due to various complications that come along with their often offers mentors to help the students with their specific job plans, other Judaic events in which these students will participate are less independent lifestyles. This program is combatting the as well as helping them to create and build resumes. Finally, also incredible and substantial opportunities to connect with roadblocks that people with intellectual disabilities face by program faculty will reach out to YU alumni to help find job the rest of the YU community. offering a specifically designed program tailored to their needs. placements for the graduates. The social aspect of the program is anticipated to be In order to be eligible for the program, applicants must be The Makor Program helps its students to take their education profoundly meaningful both to the Makor students and the diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability. beyond high school, and into the next stage of life, in a variety other YU students. Beginning with the relationships formed They must also have some kind of history of receiving special of areas. Thus, the curriculum offers a significant focus on job in learning and davening, and extending to the many other

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YU Center for Israel Studies Administrative Changes to Receives $1 Million Grant the Office of Student Life from Tzili Charney Leah Klahr Miriam Pearl Klahr Features Editor Managing Editor and philanthropist, continues her and Moreover, this change is actually a return Yeshiva University’s Leon’s mission of striving to help others, In June Dr. Nissel, to a system that has existed in the past and Center for Israel Studies was founded and create a vision of peace for Israel and University Dean of Student Life met is part of a greater move to restructure in 2007 with the mission of “deepening Palestine. She works as a costume designer with the three Beren Campus Student OSL. At the Beren Campus, Sarah Sheps Yeshiva University’s longstanding for Habima Theater in Israel, the Cameri Presidents to discuss changes for the will serve as Program Manager, Talia relationship with the State of Israel.” Theater of Tel Aviv, the Jewish Repertory upcoming year. Tami Adelson, long time Molotsky as Student Life Coordinator and This summer, Tzili Charney donated a $1 Theater, and the National Yiddish Theater Director of the Beren Campus Office of Yaelle Kassai will be this year’s Stanton million grant to the Center in the honor Folksbiene in New York. In 2014, she Student Life or OSL had recently left, and campus fellow. All three women are Stern of her late husband, Leon Charney. Leon founded the Leon Charney Resolution they were informed that she would not College alumnae and offer a unique insider Charney, who graduated from Yeshiva Center in Hakfar Hayarok, Israel which be directly replaced. Instead, Rabbi Josh perspective into the university. Meanwhile, College in 1960, was a prominent lawyer, works to advance peace education and Weisberg, former director of the Wilf Natan Bienstock and Tzvi Levitin, Wilf author, and Jewish activist, who served as an resolution. The Resolution Center also campus OSL, has become Senior Director Campus Student Life Coordinator and advisor to President Jimmy Carter, Prime advances Tzili Charney’s project of of Student Life for both campuses. Stanton Fellow respectively, will work Minister Yitzhak Rabin, and President facilitating communication between Israeli at the men’s campus along with Linda Ezer Weizman. He also worked with Prime and Palestinian families. Charney was The decision was made after various Stone, Director of Student Events for both Minister Golda Meir on Israel’s initiative awarded an honorary degree from YU in conversations with students that campuses. Though she will spend most of to help Soviet Jews immigrate to Israel. 2017. highlighted some of OSL’s weaknesses. her time at Wilf, Linda will come to the Charney aided President Jimmy Carter Dr. Steven Fine, Director of Yeshiva Rabbi Brander, Vice President of Beren Campus once a week to train the in assembling the documents leading to University’s Center for Israel Studies University and Community Life, praised newer staff members. Josh Weisberg will the Camp David Accords. As a prominent expressed the magnitude of Tzili Charney’s Rabbi Weisberg as being talented in split his time between the two campuses. philanthropist, he funded the Cardiology gift to the center. Fine explained, “Tzili multiple areas ranging from implementing For now his hours on each campus are not Wing at NYU Langone Medical Center, really understands our mission here. We’re top-down student life programming, set, with the plan being that he will go where and established the school of Marine not AIPAC, and we’re not the YU Israel enabling bottom-up student led initiatives he is needed. Rabbi Brander has stated that Sciences at the University of Haifa. In Club. Tzili’s gift enables us to go deeper, and interacting with students facing various the effectiveness of this approach will be 2005, Leon Charney received an honorary to look Israel’s legal system and culture in types of crises. He believes that having him assessed a month into the school year. degree from YU. the eye, and say, ‘Who are you? What are on both campuses will improve the student Tzili Charney, renowned artist, activist, experience for everyone. cont’d p8 cont’d p4 Editorial September 2017/ Elul 5777• Page 2

The Yeshiva University Dr. Berman Calls for Introspection - Take up the Charge Observer Mindy Schwartz Editor-in-Chief Editor-in-Chief In his short Mindy Schwartz time as president, Dr. Berman has Managing Editor clearly placed a large Miriam Pearl Klahr emphasis on defining the univeristy, News Editor answering the worn- Sarah Casteel weary questions: What is YU? What Features Editor does it mean to be Leah Klahr a university and to be–as YU claims–the Opinions Editor flagship of Modern Orthodoxy? Kira Paley

In a letter written to Web & Social Media students the week Manager before the investiture Shira Feen Dr. Berman wrote, “...In our rapidly changing world it is essential that YU know itself. We ending his speech on Sunday by Layout Editor must forthrightly articulate the values for which we urging everyone, including students, that “now is the time to get involved” in the future Shira Perton stand…we must identify and be passionate about YU’s of YU. grand purpose in the context of the Jewish community Business Managers and broader society.” But as students we should not just wait around to be engaged with - we must be proactive Sabrina Benmoha in engaging in these issues ourselves. We should take ownership over the issues facing Sarah Porgess He began taking up this charge in his speech at the this university and we should empower ourselves to discuss them and take action when formal investiture event on September 10th in which necessary. he set out to, at least in a broad way, define the values on which this university is based. He claimed that This is why I feel privileged to work on The Observer at this precise moment in the YU rests on five torot “ ,” or foundations: Torat Emet, university’s history. This paper is meant to be an open platform for students to discuss the belief that the Torah is Divine, Torat Chaim, the the issues, events and topics that they care about it. When a student living at home was imperative to “engage in the world and be responsible upset by new commuter policies at the Beren dorm buildings, she wrote and published an to the world,” Torat Adam, the belief in humanity, Torat article to publicize the issue. When members of the drama society wanted to give credit Chesed, the need to fight for justice, and, lastly, Torat to their own for successfully securing the uptown theater, they seized the opportunity to Zion, the responsibility to not only support Israel but write a report and spread the word. When students were dismayed about a campus event also to “move history forward” and “redeem the world.” or a prevailing student body attitude, they were able to share their feelings with the rest of While his speech was certainly stirring, his definitions their univeristy in our pages. were in many ways vague. There is a wide spectrum of Jews, for example, who believe in Torat Emet, even a In this moment we can be more than just a gathering place for student body opinions; we wide spectrum of definitions of the phrase itself–but can be a sounding board for what students think the “values on which we stand” and the should they all be included in our institution? I sincerely “grand purpose” of our school should be. Here at The Observer we want people to feel hope that Dr. Berman’s first attempt to articulate the welcomed and encouraged to speak their mind. Take that issue that you care about and university’s values is only the beginning of a larger advocate for it, write about, submit it and hopefully you will begin a discussion about your movement to clarify what this university stands for, what ideas that will transform them from a think-piece to real life change. it believes in, and what it will do to stand up for those beliefs. It is then important to stress that The Observer is a place for all students to voice their opinions about issues, whatever those opinions may be. As a newspaper we want to be a Dr. Berman asks YU to “know itself” and has already sounding board, not an echo chamber. Observer staff members all have our own ideas for made one attempt to articulate that self-knowledge. what YU should look like and we will publish about them freely in the opinions section However, his request is a forminable task for any and in editorials. I personally identify as an Orthodox Feminist and I have written and will individual, harder still for a university that contains continue to write OpEds advocating for increased Talmud learning opportunities at Stern within it such spectrum of students from varied religious, College, a change which I see as vital to the “grand purpose” of this institution. But, given social, and cultural backgrounds. While Dr. Berman’s basic standards of respectability and diction, I will happily publish articles which deny the five “torot” sound beautiful, it will take more effort than very existence of Orthodox Feminism, critique feminism as movement, or in any other way just finding the right phrasing to unite a school that often challenge my views. feels segmented by the style of students’ skirts, jeans, kipahs, or button down shirts. Simply put: The Observer as an entity is not defined by any single student’s opinion–not mine or anyone else’s. Our goal is to be a place for students to speak their mind, nothing It is essential that the university administration engage more and nothing less. I ask sincerely that if you disagree with what I or any other student the student body in these soul searching conversations; publishes in this paper, submit a response article or letter to the editor and fight your a grand mission on paper is nothing; in the end it is the corner. students who are tasked with lifting that mission off the page, with representing it and carrying it out in their But beyond that, this year specifically I make one more request: help us make The lives. To his credit Dr. Berman echoed this sentiment, Observer a place where all students not only feel comfortable voicing their opinion, but feel empowered to take ownership over this special time in their university’s history and engage in this YU’s quest to “know itself.” Send us your OpEds. Tell us what you think YU should be, what you think makes it great, and what it should do better. The paper is here for you to make yourself and your ideas about our school heard–all you have to do is write.

nt to write for the r? Wa rve Obse email: [email protected] Page 3 • Sepember 2017/ Elul 5777 News

Editor-in-Chief Mindy Schwartz Managing Editor Miriam Pearl Klahr News Editor Sarah Casteel Features Editor Leah Klahr Opinions Editor YU Launches Makor College Experience Program Kira Paley for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities Web & Social Media Sarah Casteel Manager News Editor Shira Feen cont’d from front page Layout Editor events and interactions on campus, the students will have Ultimately, the students will leave the program with a certificate be a part of the community as well. Despite the availability of many opportunities to interact and bond with each other. of completion, a resume, a reference letter to help them with various programs for people with intellectual disabilities, there Shira Perton This will allow the Makor students to truly feel part of the YU future job applications, life skills, mentors and the tools and is no other place for these motivated individuals to receive the community and the college lifestyle, and will give the other education to make them significantly more independent and Torah education and community aspect of the program. The Business Managers YU students an important opportunity to get to know and be prepared for the future. students’ access to the myriad resources and opportunities Sabrina Benmoha inspired by the Makor students. offered at Yeshiva University is something that cannot be Sarah Porgess The multi-faceted program aims to assist these motivated and For Yeshiva University, this program is indicative of paralleled by any other program thus far. On top of being a excited students to develop more independent lifestyles by the institution’s commitment to inclusivity, growth and college and yeshiva experience, Makor will offer its students a working closely with a range of specialized faculty. They may community. These young men have many friends, family religious and social environment, and life-skills education, to also have the chance to take advantage of various employment members and peers who are part of the YU community, and this ensure they will thrive wherever they go next. opportunities on campus during their time in the program. new program offers an unprecedented opportunity for them to

YU Cracks Top 100 in Forbes College Ranking for the First Time Mindy Schwartz Editor in Chief

In early August Forbes, the famed business publication, ful college - especially since many individuals may choose less man-to-sophomore retention rate, a safe indicator if students released its tenth annual ranking of America’s top colleges. lucrative fields like education or nonprofit work in which they like what they signed up for, and one in which YU holds up This year Yeshiva University cracked the top 100, clocking in can certainly succeed, just not by the salary-focused measure well with a 94% retention rate–15% higher than the national at number 75 out of a total of 650 colleges judged nationwide. of Forbes. This system favors schools whose students go into average. Another 5% is based off of data from Niche, a site that The Forbes list claims to be the “Capitalist’s tool”; acknowl- high earning fields like business, corporate law, and investment gathers millions of student reviews and poll responses and an- edging that students and their families invest a considerable– banking. This standard favors a school like YU, which current- alyzes them to create their own rankings. Forbes focused on and growing–amount of money into their college degree, it ly has more students enrolled in Syms than in Yeshiva College. a college’s rank in Niche’s lists of “2017 Colleges with the sets out to measure a college’s return on investment. In short, YU also benefits in this measure because of its large base of Best Professors” and “2017 Colleges with the Best Student their lists claims to determine whether what a student puts into alumni in these lucrative fields who can provide students with Life.” While this was a pretty miniscule percentage of the over- her bachelor’s education is commensurate to what she gets out connections and help them secure good positions. In fact a all score it is still interesting to note that YU actually placed a of it. A college’s rank is based on an aggregate score of school’s number of students themselves are likely to enter into YU with whopping 20th out of 1,602 colleges in the first ranking and rating in five categories: graduation success rate, academic these sort of connections under their belt. And while the rank- a much more lowly 503rd out of 1,373 colleges in the second success rate, student debt, student experience, and graduation ing tries in some way to correct for its favoring of non-liberal ranking. rate. arts fields by its academic success measure, that factor is still The final 12.5% of the composite score is taken from the YU’s notably high score is a pleasant surprise considering it worth only slightly more than half of what the graduate’s salary school’s graduation rate. School’s are awarded in this category had been on a downward spiral on the Forbes since it’s peak in factor is worth. for keeping students on track to graduate within the standard 2014. That year YU placed fourth on a list of “Top Ten Col- Driven by the premise that burdensome debt can greatly de- four years. For the first time since its inception the ranking also leges to Watch,” having risen 334 ranks since Forbes’ 2009 tract from the a student’s ability to succeed post graduation, awards a small percentage to a schools for a healthy six year list, from 452nd to 118th. However YU proceeded to fall back Forbes makes student debt another 20% of a college’s overall graduation rate. The national average for six year graduation to 209th in 2015 and then rise only slightly to 195th in 2016. score. This is based off of data from the percentage of students at a private, not-for-profit schools is 71.5%. YU bests that with What’s more, the 2017 rise stands in contrast YU’s fall in re- at a school who take out federal loans and the school’s student a 59% four year graduation rate and a 85% six year graduation cent years from its coveted spot in the top 50 Best Colleges ac- loan default rate. rate. cording the the U.S. News and World Report, long considered In the run down of their methodology Forbes acknowledges When these five factors are considered YU holds up rather well the gold standard in college rankings, to a more humble rank- that this measure can unfairly favor schools with a wealthy stu- as a return on investment as the 75th best college in America. ing of 66th. YU’s dramatic upswing in the Forbes ranking this dent body because they would naturally have a lower percent- But even as Forbes’ rankings focuses aggressively on the mon- year may be do to the changes Forbes has made to its ranking age of students in need of federal assistance. However they de- etary bottom line, a second Forbes college ranking may make system from year to year, which, although largely undramatic fend their choice to maintain this factor as a low percentage of YU students see their institution in a different light. Forbes overall, can still impact a school’s ranking. students on federal aid can also indicate a school’s affordability created an additional ranking to measure a college’s return In unpacking the Forbes ranking it becomes clearer how and willingness to give scholarships. From a random sampling on investment - the Forbes Grateful Graduates Index. The YU may have achieved such high marks. The Forbes ranking of colleges on the list it seems that although the percentage list ranks 200 private, not-for-profit colleges with more than system is based on methodology driven by output, or what a of student who received federal loans at YU, 27%, was on the 1,0000 students by assessing the median private donation per school gives students for the monetary investment they put in. higher end it was not highly out of the ordinary, seemingly student over ten years and the percentage of graduates to do- It thus logically follows that the post graduation success rate of indicating that YU’s student debt score was not skewed by a nate money to their college each year. The premise of the list is students stands as the majority, a full 35%, of a school’s total wealthy population. However a wealthy student body can still that a school that produces good outputs for students will cre- score. “Success” as defined by Forbes is based on two clear affect the size of a federal loan, making them smaller and thus ate happy and appreciative graduates who want to show their cut measures - high salary in early and long term earnings, and easier to repay. Although at the same time, in the breakdown of thanks by giving back. Although YU is often seen as a place dominance in the chosen field. Since Forbes recognizes that student grants and loans YU did have an unusually high 82% of where anyone can complain about anything, it actually ranks the liberal arts and certain STEM fields require a great deal of students receiving institutional aid, averaging $24,705. Due 85th in grateful graduates. The percentage of graduates who post-BA education to achieve success, they have devoted an- to sizable institutional help, students may only need to take out donate each year is only 9.4% but the median private donation other 12.5% of the score to academic success, measured by the smaller federal loans which are easier to pay back and contrib- over ten years is $12,164. percentage of the student body that obtains Phds and by the ute to a lower student loan default rate. The way Forbes sees the world everything is a business. If that number of students who have received prestigious academic Another 20% is based on student experience, an addition is true, then–at least according to these rankings–not only are recognitions like the Fulbright award. most likely added after their earlier ranking methodology was YU alums smart customers, but YU itself is also a smart busi- Critics of the Forbes ranking point first and foremost to the criticized for ignoring student life and satisfaction while on ness that keeps its customers satisfied and coming back for focus on monetary success as a skewed measure of a success- campus. 15% of this category is based of off a school’s fresh- more. News September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 4

citizens and leaders for the Jewish community and the world. education in this area. According to Rabbi Menachem Penner, Dean of Administrative Changes While Stern College for Women, Yeshiva College, and Sy RIETS, “This is a completely different level, really, than anybody has had Syms School of Business do extraordinary work transforming before. We are hoping that within a couple of years, this will become the to the Office of Student the lives of their graduates, they meet the needs of only part standard for the shul rabbinate.” of the community. To carry out our commitment to a broader The program, which consists of a total of six courses, aims to make the Life population, our admissions team is meeting with students who semikha students and future community leaders more comfortable Miriam Pearl Klahr seek to start college in a two year format and at the same time dealing with various issues of mental health. The classes provide a com- Managing Editor immerse themselves in a Jewish experience with their peers on prehensive education by offering graduate level academics taught by our campus.” orthodox mental health professionals. The education also goes beyond The program is cohort-based; students are meant to work ex- the traditional classroom approach, as the students are pushed to spend cont’d from front page tensively with and alongside each other and develop a camara- time processing and discussing the material. This allows them to under- derie in their learning. However, at the same time as they feel a stand its applicability in their future careers as community rabbis. sense of their own community, students are also welcome and “It really represents not a quantitative, but a qualitative difference in encouraged to partake in all the university’s extracurricular of- rabbis’ understanding of these issues,” said Penner. He explained that, Rabbi Brander explained to the Observer that it would have ferings, campus life, and Jewish learning opportunities. because students will become more self-aware, including “understand- been both cheaper and easier to maintain the status quo, Director of the new degree program, Dr. Maria Blekher, told ing what triggers them, and what’s going on inside when they’re going since, in the past, there were a total of six OSL staff members The Observer that “the associate in management allows stu- through a stressful situation,” they will end up being much better rabbis. as opposed to the current staff of seven. However, OSL’s dents to unlock their potential” by offering “students the best It is important to note, however, that this education is not intended to expansion is part of a greater effort to ensure that the Beren of YU—a rigorous Jewish and management education com- allow these rabbis to serve as long-time counselors for their congregants Campus is a vibrant and central part of Yeshiva University. This bined with YU’s distinctive on-campus experience.” She also and constituents. As more understanding and equipped leaders, they goal is to be accomplished through enhancing the madricha highlighted some of the more unique elements of the program, will be able to more effectively direct those who seek their assistance to program, investing more money into Shabbat at Beren, particularly the college experience courses that “use New York the proper resources. They will also be more equipped to deal with a improving RA programming and offering more opportunities City as a classroom,” which helps the students “develop a deep variety of situations that come up daily for a community rabbi. for students to interact with GPATS women. Having a shared understanding of the centrality and leadership role that New According to Rabbi Neal Turk, who is the Director of the mental health Senior Director of Student Life is intended to play an added York City plays in global commerce, international policy, tech- counseling program at RIETS, “These courses will help the students important role in fulfilling this goal through creating more nology innovations, and current events.” have a much better understanding of counseling, pathology, crisis, cou- synergy between the two undergraduate campuses “so that Simon Jaffe, program advisor and instructor for the Friday ples and families. As rabbis and Jewish educators, they are not becom- neither one feels like a step child.” leadership seminar, said of his new position, “I’m delighted ing therapists, but they will have a much deeper understanding of how a When asked if having a Senior Director of Student Life for to be part of a team of faculty that will teach our students the therapist thinks and what they need to understand in order to counsel both campuses indicates a shift towards planning more co- traditional research, communication and thinking skills in ad- them properly.” The program is divided into six sections: Basic princi- educational student functions, Rabbi Brander avoided a dition to self-management, people management and leadership ples of counseling, Psychopathology: child, adolescent and adult, Coun- direct response. He said that the purpose is to create more functions.” seling skills development, Issues in grief counseling, Crisis counseling, opportunities for students in many different ways. However, One participant in the program, Ariel Schilp, explained that Couples and family counseling. he did clarify that having more and larger events at the her time in a marketing and management program in Israel as Rabbi Turk explained that, while these graduates are not intended to Beren Campus is a priority, and that this change in OSL is part of the Bar Ilan Israel Experience this past year contributed serve as therapists, “A rabbi is very often going to be on the front line, meant to create a paradigm shift in terms of how and where to her interest in the new Katz degree: “I like marketing and and the first person that people come to. One of the things that is very programming is run. advertising and I think it’s good to know business; you need to much discussed in the courses is knowing when to refer a person” to a Rabbi Brander also added that is vital that students “have OSL know it for everything.” trained professional. The students will come to understand many of the accessible to them at all hours, not only from nine to five, and Professor of first year writing Dr. Shirli Sela Levavi, who has issues that their future congregants and constituents face, and gain the that Josh Weisberg really gets that.” Beren Campus leaders a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from Rutgers University knowledge and tools to know when to tell someone if they need to go affirmed that they feel extremely supported and they aren’t and taught has academic literacy in community colleges before for therapy or offer another kind of referral. In addition to their ability concerned by the administrative changes even though both coming to YU, told The Observer, “I was originally driven to to refer people out, these rabbis can also continue to counsel them on Rabbi Josh Weisberg and Linda Stone have worked primarily teach by a sense of social mission. In YU I have the chance to the level typical for a community rabbi. Graduates of the program will with Wilf in the past. Keren Nuegroschl, SCWSC President teach in a great school and still feel a sense of social mission.” thereby be better rabbis and pastoral counselors on a day to day basis. explained that both Weisberg and Stone have expressed their She also praised her students after teaching her first day of The program aims to enhance and advance rabbis’ resources in serving understanding that the Beren campus differs from Wilf, and class. “The students were sweet and smart, and I feel they de- their communities. “What we realized is that the challenges facing rab- that they want constant feedback on how things are going. She serve the chance they were given to enter this high ranking bis today often have to do with emotional issues in his congregants or in also clarified that having multiple OSL staff members has been school.” his students. And he faces all the challenges that are out there in society. helpful rather than confusing. When unsure of who to turn to, A better understanding of those challenges and a better understanding she can always ask Sarah Sheps, who redirects her if the issue of how to deal with them will make him a better rabbi,” said Turk. would be better addressed by Linda Stone or Josh Weisberg. The program is competitive, requiring applications and acceptance, and Regarding orientation Nuegroschl added that “everything has hopes to develop a cohort of future rabbis who will begin to revolutionize been running smoothly and I’ve only heard positive feedback the ability of the Orthodox rabbinate to serve their communities. Stu- from both news and returning students. It’s been a great start dents in the program are also eligible to apply these courses, in addition to what I am sure will be a great year.” to two other courses from the standard semikha program, to a master’s degree in counseling at the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology. According to new President of Yeshiva University, Rabbi Dr. Ari Ber- man, “Communal leadership today requires a multipronged approach Katz School Launches that recognizes the role mental health plays in our religious and personal Two Year Associate Degree lives. Rabbinate bound semikha students must be able to understand their constituents’ needs and respond to them appropriately and sensi- Program in Management tively. We look forward to welcoming more students into the program New RIETS/Ferkauf Joint Mental and ensuring a vibrant, meaningful and healthy future for our commu- Mindy Schwartz and Sarah Casteel Health Counseling Program Cele- nity.” Managing Editor & News Editor Programs such as this testify to Yeshiva University’s dedication to con- brates First Graduating Class stantly bettering the Jewish community. The rabbis graduating from Beginning this semester, Yeshiva University’s Mordecai D. and Sarah Casteel Monique C. Katz School of Graduate and Professional Studies this program have a unique opportunity to take the shul and community has launched a new associate degree in management, with thir- News Editor rabbinate to a new level, allowing for the reduction of stigma of mental ill- ness and simultaneous increase in use of available counseling resources. ty three students already enrolled across the Beren and Wilf This past June, the first cohort of students graduated from the Yeshiva The growth and continuation of this program forecasts a brighter and campuses. University Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary and Ferkauf healthier future for orthodox communities all over the nation. Students obtain their degree after four semesters during the Graduate School of Psychology Joint Mental Health Counseling Pro- regular school year and two seven to eight week sessions over gram. The two schools have worked in conjunction to create the pro- the summer. In their first semester students will take two-hour gram, which offers a select group of semikha students the opportunity long courses in first year writing, introduction to business, and to receive a unique education in mental health counseling for Orthodox business algebra. Assessments will be project and presentation rabbis. The program is specifically geared toward semikha students based, rather than test focused. In addition to these tradition- going into either the shul rabbinate or Jewish education. The program al courses during the weekday, students will also take special takes 18 months, after which the students receive a certificate of com- classes on Friday. The Friday classes will alternate between a pletion reflecting their higher level of education in mental health coun- leadership seminar and a college experience course that will seling as a part of their rabbinical degree. include trips to pertinent locations around New York City and It is becoming increasingly essential for community rabbis to be guest lecturers from various industries. As for the dual curric- equipped to deal with mental health issues, which is why all students in ulum requirements, students will enroll in the Stern or Yeshiva RIETS are required to take at least two to four courses in counseling College courses with all the rest of YU’s undergraduates. depending on their track in the semikha program. While stigma about Tuition will be the same as that for Stern and Yeshiva College. seeking help for mental health issues still exists, it is clear that the ortho- Students who complete the program with a GPA of at least 3.0 dox community is beginning to embrace the resources available to them. have the opportunity to transition to a bachelor’s degree pro- In fact, as of this past year, the YU Counseling Center is seeing about gram at Sy Syms School of Business. 25% of undergraduate students. Thus, all rabbinical students must have Dr. Paul Russo, vice provost and dean of the Katz School not- some awareness of and training in mental health issues; however, the RI- ed that “At YU, we believe it is our responsibility to educate ETS/Ferkauf joint program aims to offer a unique and unprecedented September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 4 News September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 5 Hey You! Yes... You!

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InvestitureMiriam Pearl Klahr and Mindy of Schwartz Yeshiva University’s Fifth President: Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman Managimg Editor & Editor in Chief Gesela Levin, a student at Stern College and sophomore class before coming to campus. Today, September 10th, marked president, spoke on behalf of YU’s students. Levin mentioned the official investiture of Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman as the fifth pres- her upbringing as a daughter of two refugees from the Soviet When asked how he felt at the event, President Emeritus Rich- ident of Yeshiva University. Dr. Berman has been serving as Union and the impact Yeshiva University’s mechina program ard Joel said, “I believe in continuity and change and to that end active president since June 5th, but today was the formal inves- has on her spiritual growth and religious life. In her speech she President Berman does us well. He has all kinds of hopes and titure ceremony. The charters of the university and of the RI- stated that “when a person comes to Yeshiva University, they dreams. I had the privilege of carrying out dreams for the past ETS rabbinic school were given over to Dr. Berman along with find their voice.” According to another Stern College student fourteen years–we are standing on one of those dreams [the the ceremonial president’s medallion, to be worn at official leader, Levin “blew President Berman away” when she spoke plaza]. But of course the real dream is all of you [students].” ceremonies such as graduations. The program started at 10 am about her background, and its effect on her experience at YU, with shiurim given by Roshei Yeshiva Rabbi Hershel Schachter at a student leaders meeting with the President a few months The formal ceremony was followed by the InvestFest - a street and Rabbi Michael Rosensweig in the Fischel Beit Midrash. ago. On her role at the event, Levin said “I’m honored to have festival on Amsterdam Ave and the newly completed plaza in- The room was packed with students and guests; a number of been chosen. I love this institution very, very much and to be cluding free food, food trucks, carnival games and music. The people even had to stand. Because the buses from Beren cam- pus only left in time for the formal investiture ceremony and the shiurim were not advertised to female students, there were only seven women in the room, and After the new no female under- graduate students President was given the other than the two Observer reporters charters and ceremonial who heard about the shiurim from medallion, Dr. Selma the original event press release. In Botman, Provost and his talk, Rabbi Ro- sensweig referred Chair of the Investiture to Dr. Berman as “a superb product Committee, turned to of our beit mid- rash” and closed Dr. Berman and his words by wish- ing the new presi- proclaimed, “Welcome dent “bracha and hatzlacha l’hagdil Dr. Berman, welcome Torah u’l’hadir.”

The formal inves- home.” titure ceremony, which took place in Lamport Auditorium, began with a procession of faculty from able to speak on behalf of every student in it is truly very excit- festival was well attended by undergraduates, faculty, staff and the various high school, undergraduate, and graduate institu- ing and humbling.” families. tions of the university. Faculty filled both sides of the audito- rium, which was filled to capacity. When asked why she was After the new President was given the charters and ceremonial The Observer spoke to Dr. Botman to discuss details of plan- participating in the event, Nechama Price, Professor at Stern medallion, Dr. Selma Botman, Provost and Chair of the In- ning such a big event. On the investitures budget she said, College and head of GPATS, told The Observer, “I think it is vestiture Committee, turned to Dr. Berman and proclaimed, “Dr. Berman wanted something modest and so the board [of absolutely important for faculty to come and show support. It “Welcome Dr. Berman, welcome home.” the investiture committee] acceded to his request.” An outside is a monumental event and we should be proud. We have a new The idea that YU is Dr. Berman’s home was echoed in the source furthered this point, informing The Observer that when president who will bring us to greater heights–especially for president’s own speech. Dr. Berman rattled off his YU-histo- Dr. Berman saw the original budget for the festival he slashed women’s Torah learning.” ry, noting that he first stepped foot in Lamport when he was 13 it, feeling it was too much of an expense. Botman said that the and just starting high school, met his wife on a Central-MTA main expenses came from audio visual equipment, staff and Rabbi Joshua Strulowitz, Judaic Studies teacher at Yeshiva blind date, and went on to earn three more degrees from YU. renting robes for the faculty, but almost all other frills, usual- University High School for Girls, echoed this sentiment. “I’m “I am intellectually, spiritually, and socially a product of YU,” ly present at university investitures, were held back at the new not obligated to be here and no one even asked me to come but he said. “I do not need to read about YU in a history book, it is president’s request. Fundraising staff noted that while there as someone who not only works here but also has three degrees in my heart and soul.” was no formal fundraising for the investiture event itself, fund- from here–and is pursuing a fourth–I think we should be here raising has already begun in honor of the event for the specific to show our support. And I think it is important that Dr. Ber- In his speech Dr. Berman first set out to answer the question of programs Dr. Berman referred to in his speech. man should see and feel our support.” “what does YU stand for?” In his answer he listed five “torot,” or foundations, on which our university stands: Torat Emet, Botman also explained that the festival format was chosen be- Additional viewings of the investiture ceremony included a the belief that the Torah is Divine, Torat Chaim, the impera- cause “the president wanted a celebration and for everyone to student viewing party in the heights lounge attended by around tive to “engage in the world and be responsible to the world,” get involved” and a street fair was a great platform to attract 175 students which included refreshments and raffles. A num- Torat Adam, the belief in humanity, Torat Chesed, the need to students. Rabbi Brander echoed this sentiment, telling The ber of students were also allowed to sit in extra seating spots in fight for justice, and, lastly, Torat Zion, the responsibility to Observer that “We wanted to elevate the celebration by getting the auditorium. not only support Israel but also to “move history forward” and everyone involved - and first and foremost that means getting “redeem the world.” students involved.” The YStuds, an acapella group of Yeshiva College, kicked off the event with their rendition of the national anthem. They also While the first half of his speech was more focused on broader, The Observer asked a number of students at the InvestFest why performed two songs in the middle of the ceremony and closed somewhat vague ideas, in the second half Dr. Berman elabo- they came. “I came for the unity of people and, honestly, also the event with Hatikvah. Gedalia Penner, YStuds member and rated on three concrete focal points for the YU of the future. for the food,” said Brent Weinberg, Syms ‘18. Gideon Turk, YC alum ‘17 told The Observer, “I felt very honored to be able The first is a focus on emerging industries by “building op- YC ‘18, expressed a similar attitude, “I am excited for food to stand for an audience in the auditorium of my alma mater portunities for STEM fields,” like computer science. To this truck burgers, and for the future of Modern Orthodoxy.” and bring in the future of the institution.” point he announced that the university is working on a num- ber of bridge programs with Israeli universities and officially Recent graduate Jen van Amerongen, Stern ‘17, explained The lineup of speakers included some notable guests. Rabbi announced one program which will allow students with BAs in why she came to hear the investiture ceremony live: “During Mirvis, Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of computer science from YU to get MAs in the field from He- my last semester I met Dr. Berman on multiple occasions and the Commonwealth, gave the invocation. Chuck Schumer, brew University and Bar Ilan. The second is a focus on expand- I am a very big fan of his. I am very excited to be at his investi- Senate Minority Leader and Senior Senator from New York, ing the market of students, actively seeking out new students to ture and see all the wonderful things he is going to do for this gave a short speech in which he joked that it was “nice to have “increase our tuition base and spread Jewish values and ideals university” a good heimeshe audience.” He told some “Jewish” jokes, one across the world.” On this note he praised the Katz Graduate of which made fun of the fact that his bald spot can be con- school for its thirty Chinese students this year and stated that Noah Marlowe, YC ‘19, was also eager to hear Dr. Berman’s fused with a kippah, and even pointed it out at the podium by such outreach will only be expanded going forward. He also speech. “I wanted to see his new vision of YU and to be re-in- bending his uncovered head for the room to see. He noted Dr. announced that scholarships will be created for students who spired for what we can be.” Berman’s Queens roots, and ended with a nice yet formulaic do sherut leumi or serve in the Israeli or American armed forces statement of YU’s vision and importance. Features Page 7 • September 2017/ Elul 5777

A Letter from the SCWSC President’s Desk Keren Neugroschl

A few weeks ago I was discussing study habits with a friend, extracurricular activities. Certain clubs are seen as “less cool” to stop letting what my friends were doing dictate my own ac- when I mentioned in passing that I frequently travel uptown to than some other more “prestigious” clubs. These indications tions. I surprised everyone by switching from a science-related study in the library on the Wilf campus. actually affect people’s decisions in getting involved on cam- career path to political science. I joined clubs on campus where pus. I knew nobody, because they sounded interesting to me. And “Oh, so you’re one of those girls who are always in the uptown yes, I even started to study in the library uptown. library,” she responded, her tone clearly hinting what she The use of labels is rampant in YU. Every academic decision meant. seems to be scrutinized by strangers and friends alike, and box If I never consciously decided to ignore what everyone else was you into some category of “type of girl” with a list of precon- thinking or saying about me, I would have never met some of While this was not a surprising answer, I was still taken aback, ceived notions ready to be thrown at you. my closest friends. I would have never found what I am really as I always am by these sorts of comments. The stereotype is passionate about. And I most certainly would not be your stu- one that I was familiar with, as I’m sure most students at YU Obviously being judgemental is not a YU-specific problem. In dent council president. are. It goes something like this: if a girl goes uptown to study it any community individuals are judged and categorized based must be because she wants to meet guys in the library. It can’t on their actions and interests. However, there is undoubtedly a Ultimately, no matter how many semesters and years we end up be that I focus better on my work, or that I study with more problem at YU – and the problem is not simply that people are spending at YU, college is short. Worrying about the stereo- concentration, or that the writing that I do uptown is markedly quick to judge. types on campus can seriously hold us back from experiencing better than what I can accomplish in either library on Beren YU to its fullest. Every student has different interests, different campus or my dorm room. The problem is that these stereotypes and judgements stop academic needs, and different ways of pursuing their passions. students from doing what will be the most rewarding for them. And one of the greatest parts of YU is the fact that it caters to This one interaction with my friend is far from rare at YU. Ev- Students are wary about travelling uptown to study. They think this diversity within its undergraduate student body. The op- eryone is familiar with the myriad of stereotypes attached to twice before deciding a major that is in a field that they actually portunities in YU are endless. If we obsess over what others seemingly unrelated academic decisions. want to pursue. They question the image that joining certain will think of our decisions, there is a good chance that we will clubs will create for themselves. Ultimately, we as a student miss out on what may be our greatest experience at YU – what I know countless people who have stories of being mocked for body are giving too much weight to the, not necessarily mali- will really help us realize our full potential. their choice in major. Students who major in Studio Art are told cious, but definitely uninformed comments that we hear from that they must have chosen that field for its “easy” course load. our peers. This year, let’s all agree to stop letting these stereotypes hold Students studying History are informed by their peers about us back. Let’s study where we are most productive, major in their inevitable lack of employment options. Even Biology and Just to be clear: I’m not writing this as someone who is above what we want to pursue, and join clubs that interest us. Let’s Psychology majors are written off as “classic Stern girls” only all of this or unaffected by what others say. I have always been do what fulfills us and makes us happy – not what will make us doing what is expected of them. quiet and therefore inclined to do whatever my friends were more popular or less controversial. I have had friends confide in me that the clubs they choose are doing. Branching out or being independent is difficult when based primarily on the images that are associated with these you’re shy. So I just wouldn’t. But my first semester I decided

YU Center for Israel Studies Receives $1 Million Grant from Tzili Charney By Leah Klahr publications, academic programs, museum exhibitions, public country. “Our goal is for students to really explore Israel as it Features Editor events and educational opportunities.” It encourages faculty is,” said Fine. to organize research groups, lectures, conferences, and The Center is also looking for students to get involved through cont’d from front page exhibitions that will be funded by the Center. Projects that are work study, and is open to receive suggestions and ideas currently underway are Rabbi from students regarding future projects and you?’” Fine explained that the Center was founded upon this Shalom Carmy and Rabbi initiatives that the Center can develop. Another unique goal, and now finally has the budget to explore Israel’s Tzili’s gift enables us to go Ozer Glickaman’s Zionist initiative that the Center for Israel Studies is multi-faceted culture and complexities in more nuanced ways. Thought and Literature deeper, to look Israel’s legal implementing, “Israel in the Classroom,” will Fine added that another unique feature of the Center, which Project, Dr. Jacob Wisse’s provide funds for professors to develop relevant distinguishes it from other Israel Studies Programs, is that it Art and Museology Project, system and culture in the eye, courses, host visiting speakers, trips, and other explores the entire history of Israel, exploring both past and Josh Karlip’s Russia, Eastern educational opportunities. Malka Lebovic, the present— “Literally from Abraham to the meaning of Zionism and say, ‘Who are you? What Europe and Modern Israel Center’s Assistant Director, will hold office today,” said Fine. He also stressed that the Center is focused Project, and Dr. Ronnie are you?’” hours at both the Beren and Wilf campuses. on exploring Israeli culture and ideas, rather than politics. Perelis’ Sephardim and Israel Project. On September 13, The Center is excited to be in touch with students, and to help In a letter to the YU faculty, Dr. Fine wrote that the Center for the YU Museum will open “The Arch of Titus: From Rome make Israel-related student initiatives happen. The Center is Israel Studies’ work is expressed through “diverse scholarship, to Jerusalem and Back”, an exhibit directed by Fine, and sponsoring the September 12 “Evening of Sephardic Music” supported by the Center. for students, and is planning a future event where students can The Center for Israel Studies is also deeply committed to learn about the BDS movement and its implications in a more involving YU students in its mission. One of its initiatives is nuanced way. its Israel Social Science and Humanities Summer Internship Fine explained that as a major center of American Jewry, “YU Program. Dr. Fine explained that the program, which will be must confront the big issues that confound us as Jewish people individually tailored to the interests of each student, includes today—that’s what we’re trying to achieve at the Center for two stipulations; it should preferably take place outside of Israel Studies.” Fine added that former President Joel initiated Jerusalem, and outside of the “Anglo bubble.” Fine explained, the creation of the Center in 2007, and that President Berman “We are committed to studying Jews and Arabs, Jews of is deeply on board with the Center’s mission and goals. In different religious backgrounds, international connections, response to Tzili Charney’s gift to the Center, President history and archaeology, and Samaritan and Druze culture… Berman wrote, “Tzili Charney’s gift is a twofold blessing. It Our students often know only one piece of this complex is a blessing to the Jewish people, for whom Israel stands at tapestry.” By helping students explore different parts of Israel, the center of its collective soul. And it is also a blessing to all the Center hopes to expose students to more pieces of the of humanity, for whose flourishing Israel’s role as a source of tapestry, enabling them to form a richer understanding of the breathtaking innovation and ingenuity is essential.” Page 8 • September 2017/ Elul 5777 Features

An Interview with Gedalia Penner, Rising Music Artist and YU Alum Sarah Casteel myself as a solo artist. uated? News Editor GP: I will be a part-time music teacher in Carmel Academy, a It’s not often that I have a friend who comes out with his own SC: What style of music are you planning on developing as pluralistic Jewish day school in Greenwich, Connecticut. I will single. Gedalia Penner, a 2017 Yeshiva University graduate, you produce future songs? also continue to hold the title of Musical Director of Y-Studs A has done just that. Also the musical director for the Y-Studs A GP: I’d say pop with influences from Jewish and secular back- Cappella, and I will try as best as I can to release more videos Cappella group, Gedalia has recently begun to establish him- grounds. I’m really excited that all the projects that I have in and continue my solo work. self as a solo artist with the release of his song and music video, mind to put out are from such crazy eclectic genres. I see a “Baruch Hagever.” wide range of musicians in my life, like A Cappella singers, SC: Any advice for aspiring singers and musicians? This summer, I eagerly anticipated the release of Gedalia’s first Youtubers, chuppah singers. All the projects I have in mind GP: Ask for help – there’s a big network of Jewish musicians, original song. If you haven’t seen it, it’s a must see – his voice reflect all of those different things that I want to be. I see my- especially A Cappella musicians. It’s a world, it’s a community, and talent in composition are beyond powerful, and the video self as being able to perform in all of those genres. and everyone’s enthusiastic to help and bring more musicians itself is stunning. I was so inspired and uplifted by the musical and singers into the world. Reach out to me – I’m happy to brilliance of “Baruch Hagever,” and what appears to be Geda- SC: Do you play any instruments? help. lia’s very soulful and personal connection to the song, that I GP: I play guitar! had to find out more about how he went from being a student to SC: Cool! When did you learn? a rising star within a matter of a few years. Below is a transcript GP: In the last two weeks, actually! “In writing this song, I feel of our conversation about his music and solo career: SC: Wow, your musical talent clearly extends beyond just singing!

Sarah Casteel: How long have you been singing? like I really can say that I I can feel the passion extending from the depths of Gedalia Penner: All my life! I have a wonderful fan base back SC: in the neighborhood where I grew up who have been waiting your heart and soul to us listeners. Where did you get the thought through what I for me to finally do solo work. inspiration for this song, and what does it mean to you? GP: For all of the pre, during, and post-seminary and yeshi- va readers: Israel can be a very tumultuous time of personal SC: Did you always envision that music would play this big really want for myself in life, growth. Musically, the song was inspired by a riff that my two of a role in your life? roommates and I came up with, that I then developed into a GP: No, because I went to more religious schools without ex- and as a Jew. ” tracurriculars, so I didn’t really have any outlets. I knew I want- six minute song. Emotionally, it was inspired by struggles in ed to join the Y-studs when I came to college, but I had no idea faith, a dedication towards authenticity, and a lot of anxiety how much that would be a turning point in realizing that music about what my Jewish future looked like. Authenticity is the was something that I could pursue as a substantial hobby, and most important thing to me – leaving no stone unturned in my then semi-professionally. In fact, now I’m doing it profession- psyche and making sure that I really believe in the things that I ally – I’m a music teacher, the musical director of Y-studs A believe in. I don’t want to just go with the flow. In writing this Cappella, and I’m doing solo work – and so far, it feels great! song, I feel like I really can say that I thought through what I really want for myself in life, and as a Jew. SC: How did majoring in music at YU affect you as a musi- cian? SC: How did it feel to finally release your music video? It definitely felt relieving because it was a lot of work, and GP: Tremendously! First of all, music has always been my GP: life. Walking down the street, I’m always listening to all of the it felt very heartwarming because there was a lot of response. sounds around me. Before anything, my music education just More than anything, I just had a lot of close friends who had allowed me to understand – it really sounds cliché – but, my- been encouraging me for a long time to put out work. self. Not only did I hear the music, but I knew what it was and how to understand it, and how to build on it if I wanted to. And SC: I have to know – where did you film this video? The professionally, it puts me three steps ahead. It’s good to know scenery is gorgeous! that, and it feels good that I don’t just do my craft because “I GP: The Mahwah river – basically, I meant to go somewhere was born with it.” I can really say that I developed it, worked else; I was on the New Jersey turnpike, my phone died, and I on it, and understand it. was just like, ok G-d, I’m just going to go over to the side of the road wherever it seems like there’s water, and I hope that As Gedalia likes to say, “Without music, life would be flat.” you find me someplace pretty. After four or five times stop- Stay tuned for Gedalia’s upcoming work! SC: What motivated you to officially kick off your solo ca- ping, I went off to the side of the road and I asked some locals reer? if there were any caves or water or anything, and I found myself F GP: It was really my song, “Baruch Hagever.” I wrote that song or further inquiries and bookings, please call (347-626- in Israel and I’ve wanted to show it to the world for a long time. in the bottom corner of a state park. It was really pretty, and 9103) or email [email protected] Basically, the real move into being a solo artist was inspired by it worked! Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XW9CzR- just wanting to put that out into the world, and while I was do- JQ-Qo ing that, I thought I might as well do it in a way where I can push SC: What are your plans for this year, now that you grad- Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/GedaliaPenner- Don’t just sit and people watch! Write about it in The Observer! email: [email protected] Features September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 9

Menashe: Where Religious Life and “Real Life” are One Chani Grossman

I was very excited to see the filmMenashe ever since I first dis- the film, rather than stripping the movie of its shtick. (This, (Incidentally, a contributing factor to Menashe Lustig’s ability covered the existence of a mainstream (if indie) film entirely incidentally, was probably applicable to most people who saw to emotionally portray his role must be the fact that, while his in Yiddish about—and acted by— people of the chassidic com- the movie—everyone at the screening I attended was visibly character’s personality is apparently quite different from his munity; I became even more excited when I read the reviews, Orthodox, and I have heard that many other audiences of the own, his character’s life story— and the movie’s plot— is based and discovered that it was supposed to be excellent. Reviewers film were largely Orthodox as well.) While none of us speak on Lustig’s own life. Lustig himself lost his wife, lost custody of raved about the lead actor’s skill and magnetic presence, even Yiddish, we were able to understand just enough to know that his son because he is unmarried, and works in a supermarket, as an amateur performing in his first film; they admired the cin- the subtitles were bare-bones, with the actual Yiddish dialogue just like the character he portrays.) Menashe and his son Rieven ematography and depictions of chassidic life in Borough Park, much richer and more interesting. We got jokes that were ei- do normal father-son things (as well as a few abnormal ones, and they approvingly discussed the simplicity, yet universality ther poorly translated, or just outside the context of an aver- like raising a chicken, and making grocery deliveries), even if of the plot. Yet, there was another thing that intrigued me— age American viewer. We knew the significance of the rituals they’re wearing Chassidic garb and speaking Yiddish while do- nearly every review I read emphasized the movie’s status as a which were shown, such as a Lag Ba’omer celebration, which ing them. The film even has the obligatory “single-man-can’t- window into another, forbidden, unknown world. Some said is shown without a word of explanation—sure to be a shock to cook-his-own-food” scene, and it’s just as catastrophic as it things like “this movie will make you realize that the chassidim anyone who has no idea why a mass of frocked chassidim would would be in any similar movie, even if the food in question is are people too!” with very little irony. The reviewers— who be carousing around a massive bonfire on a New York City potato kugel. Essentially, it’s a regular movie that just happens seem to all live in New York— mused on the ubiquity, and yet street. (That said, one of us did not recognize that the main to be about chassidim. inscrutability of this cloistered sect living in their midst, and character was in a mikvah, instead thinking that the movie had seemed to welcome the film as an opportunity to prove that some reason for showing him in the bath.) We knew the sig- In a way, this makes the movie somewhat different than films yes, they really are people just like you and me. nificance of the yohrzeit memorial, which is the central event like Ushpizin and Fill the Void, which often come to mind when around which the film unfolds, and understood the references people think “films about Orthodox Jews” or “films about I was a bit bemused by this as I walked into a local screening of to bugs in lettuce, running in late to Maariv, and parts of the Chassidim.” Both of those have Judaism and Jewish ritual cen- the film with some friends. We were all religious Jewish girls, characters’ daily routines, from negel vasser to krias shema. tral in their focus— in Ushpizin, the main character’s religious and would obviously be walking into the film with different feelings contribute greatly to the plot and conflicts of the film, conceptions than the movie reviewers—even if we ourselves The film itself, as the reviews mention, is extremely well-made and in Fill the Void, the plot centers around the feelings raised weren’t chassidic, we were at least intimately familiar with and evocative. The actors, all amateurs, and from a variety of by a rare Jewish ritual. Menashe, however, includes Jewish rit- Jewish life, as well as Chassidic life, to whatever extent. After backgrounds (the actor playing the rebbe is a taxi driver; the ual, but only incidentally, because the characters happen to be all, we were seeing the film at a theater only a five minute drive actor playing Eizik once modeled for American Apparel in a Jewish. Jewishness is merely part of the background of the film, from lead actor Menashe Lustig’s hometown of New Square, shtreimel; the actor playing Rieven, the only non-Chassidic and while people will give Talmudic reasoning for decisions, an all-Chassidic village. We were much more closely connect- actor in the film, comes from a rare family of secular Israeli Yid- they’re generally decisions they would have made anyway. In a ed to the culture of the film than most of the reviewers. It made dishists), combine forces to make the world feel as real as our sense, that made the film feel authentic— for a religious person, me wonder, What would the movie be like stripped of the for- own world’s Borough Park. If I have one complaint about an things always happen in life that have nothing to do with religion bidden-world mystique? artistic element of the film, it was the cinematography; it was in and of themselves; however, since religion itself is such an beautiful, but at times hyperfocused and claustrophobic in a integral part of one’s life, there are traces of it throughout. No We walked out thoroughly convinced that our Orthodox Jew- way which made it difficult to appreciate the characters’ set- wonder the reviewers said that it made Chassidim seem “real,” ish backgrounds were a massive plus when it came to enjoying tings, something frustrating when part of the premise of a film when we all knew that already. Menashe reflects the realities is to expose viewers to a new setting. of religious life, where faith and ritual are ever-present forces even in the most “normal,” “typical” life events. If Menashe is But mostly, the film excels in the simplicity, and yet overarching a Jewish movie at all, then it’s less a movie about Judaism and humanity of its story. Despite having jumped into a world so at more a movie about being Jewish, if in a very specific way. But mostly, the film odds with that of the majority of its viewers, it presents a story which is universal— a father’s love for his son, and a ne’er-do- well’s struggle against the tide. Menashe, the main character, excels in the is carefully sketched-out, and manages to be both extremely sympathetic, yet not entirely likable—one can understand why people are endlessly frustrated with him, and don’t think he can simplicity, and yet handle something as simple as a memorial dinner for his late wife. And while the circumstances which led Menashe to lose custody of his son after his wife’s death seem extreme and un- overarching relatable to the average viewer, who might not be able to relate to the tremendous influence of a rebbe in the life of a chassid, they are not unique to someone in a chassidic community. It’s easy to imagine that even in a more typical and less insular set- humanity of its ting, someone with Menashe’s careless ways and straitened cir- story. cumstances might be seen by others as unfit to raise his child. Page 10 • September 2016/ Elul 5777 Features

Beren Welcomes a Second Campus Couple, the Rosenzweigs Mindy Schwartz Editor in Chief

This year a second campus couple will be joining the Beren Campus community - Rabbi Yisroel towards the Chabad campus couple at her graduate school who “made such a difference in my Meir and Mrs. Elisheva Rosenzweig. The couple comes in addition to Rabbi Daniel and Mrs. life” and who are “still dear friends to this day.” They emphasized that they are “excited to give Lerner, who are continuing their role as the campus rabbinic couple. back” in the way that those mentors gave to them. g ad ? in v s Rabbi Rosenzweig, who has cha from RIETS, has substantial experience working as a community The two expressed their excitement for shabbat on campus, but also emphasized their eagerness el en u leader and educator. For the past two years he has learned in the Torah MiTzion Kollel in to interact and make connections with students beyond the traditional paradigm of Shabbat e t o Toronto, where he worked to engage the various members of the community through , programming. “Though Shabbat is kind of the ‘main event,’” Mrs. Rosenzweig noted, “I am also r chavrutot F u shuirim, organizing a wide range of learning events, and motzaei shabbat kumsitzes. He also excited about just life with all of you each week–-being part of the big and small things that make worked as a Rabbinic Assistant at the Clayton Park Synagogue in Toronto where he lectured on up your college experience. I’m looking forward to attending your sporting events, concerts, art a wide array of topics and assisted in coordinating the shul’s programming. Rabbi Rosenzweig shows, and just chatting in the lounge or cafeteria. We want to be here for all of you, even if you has also worked as a Judaic Studies teacher and Rabbinic Educator in Nashville, Tennessee, and don’t stay in for Shabbat.” as a teacher’s assistant in the Ramaz Upper School in Manhattan. In addition to his experience as a Jewish educator and community leader, Rabbi Rosenzweig also has a BA in Music Theory Making Beren campus a more welcoming environment, especially in regards to Shabbat and Composition from the College of Charleston, South Carolina. Regarding his new position, programming, has been a continuous topic of discussion at Stern for the past number of years. Rabbi Rosenzweig said he was most excited “for the chance to share in the lives of others. I Rumblings that Stern and YC are inferior to the homey environments of other campuses and their love giving shiurim and teaching Torah, but it is truly amazing to be a part of others’ lives in the Hillels or chabads can be frequently heard by a number of students. This new hire, in addition to process.” a handful of other administrative and student initiatives like ensuring a more frequent Shabbat minyan on Beren campus, bears the marks of an improved and determined strategy in dealing Mrs. Rosenzweig is a speech-language pathologist and auditory verbal therapist, coaching with the issue. parents of children with hearing loss in how to help their children learn to listen and talk. In the past three years she has built her own private practice while concurrently pursuing a PhD Commenting on the new hire, Dean of Students, Dr. Nissel stated that “we are thrilled to at Columbia’s Teachers College in the Department of Deaf Education, where she also teaches have Rabbi and Mrs. Rosenzweig join the Beren Campus community as an additional campus in the Teacher of the Deaf Master’s Degree Program. When speaking to the Observer, Mrs. couple. Having both the Lerners and Rosenzweigs living on campus will offer greater availability Rosenzweig said, “I am where I am today because many strong and smart women have been, and for students to form connections with these inspirational couples over Shabbat and evening continue to be, my mentors. I hope to be that for students at Stern.” programming.”

Both Rabbi and Mrs. Rosenzweig described their time at university as highly formative. Rabbi Rabbi Brander similarly described the new arrangement as an opportunity for students to have Rosenzweig pointed to local Rabbi he befriended during his undergraduate experience as a great “multiple portals of spiritual entry on campus.” influence on the “growth I was able to achieve.” Mrs. Rosenzweig similarly expressed gratitude

LeahA Closer Klahr Look into the History and Context of YU’s Investitures Features Editor

On Sunday, September 10, Yeshiva University celebrated the investiture of its fifth president, premises of the medieval “Investiture Conflict”. Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman. Leading up to the event, YU students joked about the word “Investiture”, often needing to explain its meaning to others when discussing the event. The word investiture Professor Jeffrey Gurock, Jewish History Professor at Yeshiva University, shared with The originates from the Latin preposition in, and the verb vestire, which means dress. An investiture Observer that though the University has had five president Investitures, President Berman is refers to a formal ceremony in which a newly presiding official is “vested” with the authority “not the fifth president of Yeshiva, but the ninth.” He explained that in the early years of the and symbols of a high office. The concept of an investiture is traced back to the Middle Ages, 20th Century, before Dr. Revel was invested in 1915, three Rabbis served as temporary heads when religious clergy were dressed in specific garments upon their election to office—although, of the institution; they were Rabbi Dr. Phillip Hillel Klein, Moses Sebulun Margolies, and similar ceremonies took place far before the Middle Ages as well. In the 11th and 12th centuries, Rabbi Bernard Levinthal. Gurock added that late in the 1910s, when Dr. Revel left the Yeshiva investitures became a symbol of the power struggle, and conflict between church and state, as the for several years to help out his family in Oklahoma, Rabbi Meir (Bar Ilan) Berlin served as pope, rather than the monarch, began to elect local church officials. The Investiture Ceremony the temporary president. These four Rabbis, who also served as temporary Presidents of the was later extended to universities, and is among the oldest and most honored traditions in Institution, similarly reflect the unique structure of Yeshiva University, in which Rabbinic and academia. secular academic positions are interwoven.

This historical context lends an interesting perspective to Yeshiva Though the While Investitures are a hallowed academic tradition, in recent University’s Investitures. In accordance with Yeshiva University’s University has had five years there has been movement to minimize expensive investiture Investiture tradition, the newly elected University President is presented festivities; some universities skip the tradition altogether. However, with a medallion, and with two charters: one from Yeshiva University, and president Investitures, President Berman and other administrators explained the importance one from RIETS, Yeshiva’s Rabbinical School. In fact, in 1915, at the President Berman is “not for students and faculty to be involved in the beginning of a new era for Investiture of Yeshiva University’s first President, Rabbi Dr. Bernard Revel, the University. In The Observer’s coverage of the Investiture, it was Yeshiva University did not yet exist as a university. Dr. Revel was invested the fifth president of written that an outside source informed The Observer, that when Dr. as President of Yeshivat Eitz Chaim and RIETS, which had been chartered Berman saw the original budget for the festival he slashed it, feeling by the NY State Board of Regents in 1897. It was only in 1928, under the Yeshiva, but the ninth.” it was too much of an expense. Similarly, Provost Dr. Selma Botman, vision of Dr. Revel, that Yeshiva College was founded; the establishment chair of the Investiture Committee reported to The Observer, “Dr. of Yeshiva College marked the existence of the first college of liberal arts, Berman wanted something modest and so the board [of the investiture sciences, and Jewish religious study. From Dr. Revel’s creation of a Torah Umadda institution committee] acceded to his request.” However, the Investiture did still include festivities in the in 1928, to President Berman’s Investiture speech about the five forms of Torah which Yeshiva InvestFest street festival that followed the ceremony. Rabbi Brander explained that the street University must generate and share with the world, Yeshiva University stands as an institution in festival was a good forum for attracting students to be involved with this historic moment for which “church and state”, or religious and secular ideas and values are intertwined. the University. Additionally, as per Investiture tradition, Yeshiva University will host a series of inaugural year events following the Investiture covering topics which will, in following the same This was portrayed through the diverse Investiture speakers, ranging from Myriam Gilles, Vice pattern, touch on issues in secular academics as well in social, religious, and cultural topics in Dean of the University’s Benjamin N. Cardozo Law School, to Rabbi J.J. Shachter, Professor of the Jewish world. Jewish History and Jewish Thought at Yeshiva University and Senior Scholar for YU’s Center for Jewish Future. The Lamport Auditorium rung with ideas of academic excellence and diversity, rabbinic quotations, and Torah discourse, harmonizing in a movement that departs from the Features September 2017/ Elulet 5777 • Page 11

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Interview with YU Alum Michael Peres: Tech Startup Owner, Podcast Host, and Science Enthusiast Mindy Schwartz Editor in Chief Can you tell us a little about yourself? This includes my studies for my master’s, scientific research, education, interviews and my I was born and raised in Montreal where I obtained a degree in Computer Science at Dawson. recent scientific podcast, which I am super excited about. After that, I decided to pursue a second degree in Mathematics at Yeshiva University. I always This division is pivotal to a successful path forward, and I’m careful to enforce it. I consistently dreamt about moving to California, and sure enough, as soon as I finished my last exam at YU, turn down well paid jobs to pursue my free works, aw choice which I believe will make all I made the impulsive decision to press the reset button and go there. Without any idea where I the difference in the long run. Building a substantial network of well connected and talented was going or what to expect, I booked an immediate flight San Diego. At first I was constantly individuals will have a lot more to show than the immediate gratifications of monetary return. traveling alongside the beautiful coasts, going from San Diego to Los Angeles to San Francisco. I How has your undergraduate experience influenced you as a person, and in your career? used this time wisely, networking and capitalizing on my constant change of location. Eventually, My experience at YU has aided my life in a number of ways, but most importantly, it has provided it was time to settle and I set up shop in Los Angeles. In retrospect I can definitively say that me with a true understanding for the value of time, and the importance of developing the ambition moving to California was the best decision of my life. to make the most of that time. I cannot stress how important As I approached the finish line of my academic journey, the Can you tell a little about where you are in your career right unfortunate alignment of a stressful lifestyle with the intensive now? it is for you to discover what course load of advanced mathematics demanded that I absorb Thankfully my career has really taken off since I arrived in LA. I now a plethora of content in a daunting timeframe. The seemingly run two tech startups and am partnered with and work alongside you love, and intelligently superman workload in the given conditions brought upon an array of companies. My two tech startups are Hexa Tiger and challenges I would have certainly liked to avoid. But looking Hecto Fox, where I offer services to celebrities, fashion bloggers strategize your life around it. back, I realize that the amount of intellectual growth I underwent and high profile real estate agents. Currently, I have trained 10 in such a confined time period really emphasizes the value of people who work tirelessly to deliver impeccable work. This work time and how much can be accomplished even in a short period. has blossomed into something special; within the past year, we Emerging from this experience successfully gave me sense of have even surpassed the 100 website mark. I have now expanded self, passion and confidence, and a drive that seems immune to our services to offer branding, social media marketing, online expiration. This epiphany fuels my motivation to wake up every sales, hosting, SEO (Google ranking) and content writing services. morning, to meticulously optimize my required hours of sleep, I have also found value in long term business relationships; I and even to embrace the common practice of sleepless nights. work regularly as a Software Engineer for Ryan Serhant, and am What is the best piece of advice you can give to those of us partnered with X Suit. preparing to enter the workforce soon? Although I am a software engineer, my passion for innovation is Take a sober moment and properly assess what truly matters. a lot more fundamental and surpasses the realm of technology. At Money should not be at the top of your list, especially in your heart, I am simply in love with science. Just recently I launched my early years. Firstly, discover your passion, even if that requires own science based podcast, where I delve into the minds of those making exceptional scientific you to press the reset button and diverge from the well worn path you put your blood and tears contributions, and share their adventures with the world. I also operate online systems that detect towards building. I cannot stress how important it is for you to discover what you love, and recently published science videos, articles and research papers from all over the internet and intelligently strategize your life around it. This is not to say you must pursue your passions with collect the relevant results into one convenient feed called Science Hawk. I also operate a similar the obvious issues that may arise, but rather, break down a series of rational long term steps and system of Middle Eastern Israel related news called Israel Talk. In addition, I write science and pursue your path relentlessly. lifestyle based articles for a few online sources, such as Goss Club. Next is education. Understand its fundamental value by willing to go farther than others to obtain I am also continuing my education, pursuing my Masters in Biomedical Engineering online it. Seeing the world through a unique lens will allow you to do things that others can’t, and render at Thompson Rivers University. When the time is right, I hope to focus my energy in making you an irreplaceable asset. This will provide the confidence to lead and improvise in your own scientific contributions to the understanding and reversing of biological aging. unique fashion. After which, money won’t need to be a priority, but an inevitable byproduct of doing something you truly love. What do you see on the horizon for you and your companies? Let this thought process detonate in your head. Take the bus at 7:30AM and take a careful look For my tech companies, there is still so much to learn, but I am very proud of their progress and at the faces of those going to work. It will become far too apparent that many have failed to pursue direction. I see these startups becoming a foundation for something truly exceptional. I plan to a calculated path of passion and succumb to work life they don’t love. scale up these startups, and when the time is right, split the services into two polarized classes. I want to make one service exceptional, branded and state of the art work reserved for those Whether you’re a young professional looking to broaden your resource base, request an with considerable budgets, and the other a competitive alternative to the more standard websites internship, or simply have general questions, please do not hesitate to reach out. designed by the template industry. I have already constructed a business plan in which I propose an innovative new model to rival the template industry. More about Michael: www.michaelperes.com Phone: 1-844-752-9966 However, my work in tech only constitutes to 50% of my day, and this is intentional. For the Contact Michael: Social Media: other 50%, I engross myself in scientific works and the pursuits of longer term commitments. Email: [email protected] instagram: www.instagram.com/mike.514 Page 12 • September 2017/ Elul 5777 Opinions

ProtectedKira Paley by the Law, but Only to a Certain Extent Opinions Editor In 1969, KKK member Clarence Brandenburg was sentenced the legality of things that are obviously legal under a democratic Though it was legal for them to gather and share their to 1-10 years in prison for hate speech against Jews and black government, the law system would lose legitimacy, and just thoughts, the rally got, to say the least, way out of hand, and led people at a public rally in Washington; in his speech, he practically, there would an infinite amount of laws. to violence, and even terrorism. The protests instilled fear in encouraged “revengeance” against those minority groups. Americans from Charlottesville all the way across the country, The Ohio court affirmed that Brandenburg’s conviction was In the Talmud, when something is obvious, the Rabbis are and no citizen should fear that his or her life or right to be in not a violation of his rights under quick to point this out; the Talmud avoids America is a matter of debate. So while yes, the protesters are the First Amendment. The United stating things that are obvious, as it is a protected by the law provided they only speak about hateful States Supreme Court, though, in Though citizens do have a right waste of space and decreases the textual things and not participate in violence or illegal activity, the the decision Brandenburg vs. Ohio, to publicly share their opin- value of statements that are not obvious. extremity of their beliefs should be denounced by all, including overturned his conviction, ruling ions, forums that allow Neo- Like the Talmud, American law should not citizens and politicians. that the government cannot punish nazis to gather and share their contain statements that are obvious and do citizens for verbally encouraging not need to be stated, like the protection of At the end of the day, there is a fine line between preaching other citizens to violate the law. opinions inevitably lead to cha- innocuous free speech. violence and carrying out acts of violence, and one often leads os, violence, death and fear. to the other. Lawmakers, and citizens, should do everything In September 2017, a month after the The free speech that is protected under the in their power to not only denounce the hateful rhetoric of deadly Charlottesville protest, a case First Amendment, rather, is inflammatory the far right, but also ensure that more rallies like the one in like this is unfortunately applicable. But though three people speech: speech that needs to be protected under the law so that Charlottesville do not occur. Though citizens do have a right tragically lost their lives because the far-right protest, and I of citizens are not arrested for declaring their opinions, even if to publicly share their opinions, forums that allow Neonazis course do not advocate for violent protests that target minority they are controversial or even hateful opinions. The protesters to gather and share their opinions inevitably lead to chaos, groups of Americans, all of the protesters had a right to be there in Charlottesville, though their opinions are abominable and violence, death and fear. So while according to the letter of the voicing their opinions. reject everything Americans and decent human beings should law, Neo-nazi rallies could be considered legal, they should be stand for, have a right to declare those opinions under the First avoided at all costs. The First Amendment, which protects free speech, certainly Amendment. Though those who marched in Charlottesville, Though citizens do have a right to publicly share their opinions, and obviously protects innocuous speech. But innocuous spewing hate speech and promoting violence, possess beliefs forums that allow Neonazis to gather and share their opinions speech does not need protection; no one would argue that that are possibly antithetical to some of those who wrote the inevitably lead to chaos, violence, death and fear. an American publicly declaring in the streets that the sky was constitution, they are still Americans and therefore their blue would need protection under the law. If this were the free inflammatory speech is protected. speech the First Amendment were talking about, it would be a superfluous amendment. Yes, certain laws are obvious, like the None of this, though, is to say that the speech of the far-right, laws against murder and rape, but if there were laws advocating Neo-nazi protesters should be condoned or normalized.

Summer 2017 in Review Atara Huberfeld

the same thing. No matter what news channel you were watching, they were covering the same topic. Across the nation, from near and far, people gathered and just stood and watched. It was a mass communal experience, and it is awful to have to say this, but it was one that for once did not After a summer plagued with hate and marked by violence, the eclipse during the waning weeks of the summer was like a hug at the end of a long day, telling you that everything is going to be okay.

involve death or violence. Jokes were made, dorky glasses were worn, the song “Total Eclipse of the Heart” was played, the NASA Moon Twitter account blocked the NASA Sun Twitter account, This summer was, by all accounts, not great. a few retinas were burned, and, for two hours, the world was a wonderful place.

As a country, we faced danger both man-made (North Korean bomb threats, terrorist attacks in After a summer plagued with hate and marked by violence, the eclipse during the waning weeks Barcelona) and natural (Hurricane Harvey). As a nation, we found we couldn’t agree on anything, of the summer was like a hug at the end of a long day, telling you that everything is going to be not even the fact that Nazis are awful. The health of thousands of Americans hung in the balance okay. When every topic seems fraught with controversy, the eclipse put the country back on the before the Senate decided not to strip them of their health care without a replacement plan– same page and in the same discussion. The solar eclipse helped remind us that there’s more that for now. Congresspeople dealt intimately with violence, as victims and as the perpetrators. And unites us than divides us. We can all stand in awe of nature’s glory. We can all gather around throughout it all, culture as a whole was affected. and look stupid in the same paper glasses. We can find things we all agree on and we can all get excited about the same thing. Now more than ever, the news is a constant topic of conversation. Plays like the Public Theater’s Shakespeare in the Park have been staged to comment on the current politics. TV shows, like The last solar eclipse in the United States occurred in 1918. Woodrow Wilson was the The Handmaid’s Tale, are viewed as direct responses to the news of the day despite having been President, and the World War (for at that point, it had been the only one) was drawing to a close. developed some time ago. It can feel as though every culture article concludes with a paragraph The Red Sox managed to beat the Chicago Cubs. News was becoming national, with the start connecting the media in question to politics, news or something else controversial. No aspect of nationally published daily newspapers. The country was abstaining from alcohol or drinking of the arts or popular culture remains unexamined through a current events lens. Nothing is surreptitiously. On June 18th, when the solar eclipse passed overhead, covering Washington deemed too sacred or too stupid for this kind of critique, not even The Bachelorette or comedy State to Florida, then as now, Americans gathered for this uniquely communal event. And yes, movies about female friend groups (see: Girls Trip and Rough Night). What made this all the then as now, they wore what were probably unattractive protection glasses. more difficult is that the entire country seems at times to be living in two parallel universes. But 1918 can also be seen as a time of great division in the United States. German-Americans Depending on which news channel you turn on, you might hear a completely different version were shunned throughout World War I because of wartime fear of spies. The Great Depression, of the news of the day, or analysis of said news. There are very few pieces of media or events which helped enlarge the wage-gap throughout the U.S., was on the horizon. The United States that attract everyone’s attention, and if they do, somewhat depressingly, it’s almost always became literally more divided when the country was split into distinct time-zones in March of that surrounding death. Increasingly, people are experiencing media and culture in tightly closed year. And when news articles mentioned that the next solar eclipse in the US would be in 2017, bubbles, only seeing what they want to see and ignoring something that doesn’t fit with their Americans probably could not fathom the country we have turned ourselves into today. worldview or that they don’t want to have to understand. To quote, there seems to be fault, “on many sides, on many sides”. The next solar eclipse in the U.S. isn’t as far off–it will take place in 2024, a few weeks before Passover. However, even though the gap is 7 years instead of 99 years, it still seems worlds away. Overall, while the summer may have been busy, it was neither fun nor relaxing. For many, it was What will our country be like in 7 years? Will we continue down this path of divisiveness, of quite far from it. Which is why the solar eclipse on August 21st was so wonderful and so very partisanship, of hatred? Will we again view the two minutes when darkness covers the nation different from anything else we experienced over the summer. as a rare moment of brightness? Or will we be able to appreciate things in life, even moments of nature’s wonders, without connecting them to politics? I certainly hope so. For roughly two hours on a Monday afternoon, nearly everyone in America was talking about Opinions September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 13

Pride in my Community Building Bridges of Sima Fried Responsibility Shoshi Wyszynski Like many, I read The Forward’s “guide Every Thursday afternoon, there is a mass Instead of piling food on my plate or baking ensues that other persecuted nations are to the best colleges for Jewish students” exodus of Stern students who leave, suitcases an inordinate amount of potato kugel and pushed to the wayside in an attempt of self- with curiosity. The Forward considered in hand, heading to parents, friends, or even cholent, my mother has shown her “Jewish- extrication. There is no one nation at fault, “college acceptance rate, student-to-faculty other college campuses for the weekend. And Mothering” proclivity by providing me no one person to blame but each of us, ratio, Israel activity, Jewish life on campus, the administrators do little to encourage them with books. That being said, my mother as citizens of the world, should all claim a and affordability” when ranking multiple otherwise. certainly does not always get the genre, portion of responsibility. universities throughout the United States style, or subject right. Sometimes I find (http://forward.com/series/jewish-college- Why do administrators symbolically show myself reading 700-page biographies of Calling a woman in a hijab, niqab, or even a guide/). Yeshiva University received an their support by marching in the Celebrate obscure personalities I’ve never heard burqa a terrorist is wrong, (though knowing overall ranking of #21, which is not surprising Israel Parade, or by “popping” in at Torah of or 500-page historical depictions of the difference between them is a good start). considering the cost of tuition. No one has Tours orientation, but do not come show battles I’ve only read about while studying Singling out a population based on their ever claimed YU to be the most affordable their support at the bi-annual club fairs run on for APs. Though these works of literature dress and equating them to the most radical option out there. The one area where Yeshiva campus? Individual students work tireless all have little in common with each other, I sect of their religion is wrong. University excelled, though, was the “Jewish year to help transform the Beren campus into credit my mother for picking out books in Life” category with a score of 33/40. As a a community, but there is only so much the which matters of social justice and global Joking about a Muslim man or woman being campus dedicated entirely towards Jewish students can do on their own. responsibility are highlighted. a terrorist is wrong. We are a persecuted life, I believe that score could and should be nation too; how is it so hard for us to higher. I am proud of everything that my university This summer, my mother gave me a book remember? You cannot expect tolerance does for the Jewish community. Some might that is right behind Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ The moment you disregard some- Yeshiva University is more than a college. In say Yeshiva University is in my blood: my To Heal a Fractured World on my favorites one based on outward appearanc- many ways, it represents Modern Orthodoxy grandfather is a long-time Rosh Yeshiva and list: Souad Mekhennet’s I Was Told to es or an unconscious association is and supports countless communities around professor, my father and mother are proud Come Alone. the moment you close the door to the world. With so much focus on the “larger graduates of RIETS/YC and Stern College Jewish community”, however, I cannot help respectively. I attended Yeshiva University Mekhennet was invited to speak and present the possibility of a conversation. but feel that the university has placed its High School for Girls (Central). But should her book at The Simon Wiesenthal Center own community on the back burner. This not the sense of pride felt through helping in Los Angeles; it is there that I became if you are not willing to give to others. past May, as I sat through my sixth Torah the larger Jewish community reflect Yeshiva familiar with her name. Souad Mekhennet Tolerance is the commitment to respect Tours orientation, I was told once again of University’s own undergraduate community? is a national security correspondent for human dignity. The moment you disregard the importance of representing my university The Washington Post, a counter-terrorism someone based on outward appearances or outside of my campus. I have sat through many With all its faults, The Forward’s overall reporter for The New York Times, and a an unconscious association is the moment speeches like this, most recently at this past ranking of YU can serve as an impetus of Nieman Fellow at Harvard, among many you close the door to the possibility of a year’s graduation. However, the first and last change. That is, a change in attitude, so that other awards and titles. conversation. time I heard a speech about the importance the accomplishments of students on campus I n of participation in Yeshiva University’s own are celebrated and emphasized as much as the her memoir I Was Told to Come Alone, I Was Told to Come Alone is a memoir about community, was at freshman orientation. The accomplishments off campus. Fortunately, Mekhennet, who was born in Germany, balancing perspective and opinion while impression that I have unwittingly received is this change is already in the works. I was talks about balancing her two cultures: maintaining ethical integrity. Mekhennet that the undergraduate community at Yeshiva personally touched by President Berman’s Western and Muslim. Because of her does not disregard a much-needed dialogue University is something that must be fought attendance at this past year’s athletic dinner. Muslim background, Mekhennet is privy within the Muslim community as well, one in for. He addressed the student athletes, expressing to meetings with ISIS and Jihadist leaders which radicalism is discouraged and where a his support and admiration for our athletic spanning all over Europe and the Middle code of universal values and moral/ethical During my time on the Beren campus, community. He thanked us for our hard work East, as well as sharing tea and being hidden standards are met by leaders. Mekhennet members of the Office of Student Life, TAC, and dedication, and encouraged our continual behind an Abaye and Niqab. As a result specifies, “The world is not facing a clash of SCWSC, and the Shabbat Enhancement participation. President Berman let us know of her Western upbringing and modern civilizations or cultures, but a clash between Committee have worked tirelessly to enhance that our efforts were admired and appreciated mindset, Mekhennet is able to translate those who want to build bridges and those the Beren community. And there has been by the university whose jerseys we wore on those meetings into poignant articles on who would rather see the world in polarities, a noticeable improvement over the years. the field, track, and court. I am reassured terrorism. Mekhennet provides unique those who are working hard to spread hatred More students choose to stay on campus and filled with hope by his attitude: that our insight into the psyches of some of the most and divide us. While the work of the bridge for Shabbat, and this past year, student university cares about us, as much as we care dangerous leaders of the post 9/11 world. builders is certainly difficult, there are government organized countless events and about our university. However captivating Mekhennet’s memoir people in every generation who are willing distributed Yeshiva University apparel to help is, it is not purely the action and adventure and able to seek a common ground.” foster school pride. When administrators only of her daring and Bond-like life that piqued emphasize the community outside its halls, my interest. Throughout the memoir, Mekhennet ends her memoir with one last though, they leave the impression that their Mekhennet provides insights that speak piece of advice: “If I’ve learned anything it’s own student body is secondary. of global unity, communal understanding, this: a mother’s screams over the body of her and interracial bridges between Muslim murdered child sound the same, no matter When administrators only communities and those of seemingly if she is black, brown, or white; Muslim, opposing religions. Jewish, or Christian; Shia or Sunni. We will emphasize the community all be buried in the same ground.” outside its halls, though, they Mekhennet continuously recounts the leave the impression that their racism and Islamophobia prevalent in her own student body is secondary. childhood home of Germany. There were firebombs thrown and slurs hurled; at one point an adolescent Mekhennet begged her parents to leave Germany saying, “First they burned the Jews, and now they’ll burn us.”

In the Jewish community, Islamophobia is a taboo topic, often avoided and regarded as too uncomfortable for a table discussion. Islamophobia is a word thrown around in many conversations and in many politically charged debates. It is used in airports, while arguing about racial profiling, and while talking about terrorism in Israel. It is a word that is extremely important if we are to be socially conscious and if we wish to maintain moral integrity.

Oftentimes, when the words Nazi or Anti- Semitism are uttered, such a blind panic September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 13 Page 14 • September 2017/ Elul 5777 Opinions

Building Bridges of So You Want to Support Israel? Responsibility Sarah Marcus Here at YU, we receive an incredible Jewish education. We “inspirational individual”), Louis Farrakhan, head of the YU instilled, but will any of us be able to explain our support have countless classes and opportunities to learn more about Nation of Islam. Quotes of his that these two women haven’t for Israel? Our love is instinctive and our knowledge is based Jewish history, Jewish law, the Jewish community…and the list posted include affirmations such as “[Jews] are the enemy of only in emotion and religion, and neither of those things will goes on. We even have a mandatory Hebrew language course. God and the enemy of the righteous,” and “the Satanic Jews impress the skeptics. There is one area, though, where our education is egregiously that control everything and mostly everybody”. He believes that lacking. Israel masterminded 9/11, that Jews ran the slave trade, and What we need to do is educate ourselves. And no, not on that Jews in Hollywood were the ones to ruin Michael Jackson. Facebook, which in some ways is more of a bubble than YU is. I realized this when I was with several other girls waiting for If you consider yourself a Zionist–if you want to defend Israel– class to start, and the discussion turned to the recent Women’s But that was not what enraged that girl to the point of you need to come armed with facts, with history, with statistics, March of January 2017. I told my classmates that there were speechlessness. She is rightly enraged by the opinions of with sources. You need to be able to explain your support and certain aims the marchers had that I understood, but while I Sarsour, but she couldn’t tell me why she was angry or what love for Israel. There’s a debate going on, but can any of us admired their overall goals, as a Jewish woman I felt unsettled was wrong about those opinions. She had focused her ire on maintain an argument? by some of the positions held by the march’s leaders. At that the obvious target, but she had no idea who the other targets point, a girl who was not involved in the conversation leaned in were. My peers worry about Sarsour, who is a controversial At YU, we are required to take classes so that we can speak the and sneered, “Linda Sarsour. She’s a Nazi.” figure, whereas the subtler anti-semitism of Mallory and Perez language of Israel. So why are there no classes, much less any is mainstreamed and normalized. mandatory classes, on how to speak for Israel here in America? I was startled by her vitriol and her refusal to otherwise contribute It is more important now than ever. If you’re going to defend to the conversation. I pressed her to explain why she had hurled That’s a problem. In coming to YU, many of us considered the Israel, you need to know what you’re talking about. such an ugly word at Sarsour, and she could not answer me. warmth of a Jewish campus versus the potential hostilities that She could not elaborate or justify why she was so quick to hurl linger in secular campuses. At YU, we can wave our Israeli flags such a slur at someone. I told her, then, that she was off the proudly; being a Zionist is practically a given. But our cozy mark; I may definitively disagree with Sarsour, a woman who bubble is temporary, and we will eventually emerge from it once tweeted that there’s “nothing creepier than a Zionist”, into the real world. We will still have the fierce pro-Israel pride but I’m not afraid of her rhetoric. I was referring to If you consider the insidious anti- semitism of Tamika yourself a Zionist – if Mallory and Carmen you want to defend Perez, activists and women’s march Israel – you need to participants. Both of them regularly come armed with post videos of, facts, with history, and selfies with, the notorious with statistics, with anti-semite (or as Perez put it, the sources.

YaelA Blau Summer Discovery

A middle-aged couple walks into court. After being sworn atmosphere of a little village. The suburb is so particular about school year, we must take a moment to appreciate all that we in by the bailiff, the judge begins to question them. The wife its aesthetics that it will cite someone for having a garbage can have and take that appreciation with us as we move forward. separated from her husband over ten years ago, but she didn’t in front of their house. have the funds necessary to pay for a divorce. Neither of them The stark contrast between the life I live and the lives of those I have a lawyer since they cannot afford to hire one. She has seven saw in court opened my eyes to just how much I must be grateful children, he has eight, and only four of those children were born for. In our world of technology, we are always watching what from their marriage. The judge asks the man if he will pay child others are doing and coveting what they have. We complain of support for the four children, to which he responds that he does being hungry after not eating for an hour, or of having the air not have the means to pay a few hundred dollars a month, as he conditioning on too high. We do not think about those who earns very little and needs to support his other four children. may not have any food to eat today or will not have a roof to The court eventually finds an amount that he can pay, and the sleep under tonight. judge divorces them. Being in the heart of New York City, we see this contrast the A second couple comes into the courtroom, and after their second we walk out of the Stern buildings. We have all seen divorce has been completed, I walk them down the stairs to the homeless people on the streets, begging for a dollar or process their divorce papers. We reach the counter, and the two to buy a meal, but we are often too busy to let it sink in. man and woman are asked if they each want a certified copy I do not wish to diminish the severity of troubles that we may of their divorce. Upon hearing that it would cost $10 for the experience and the hardships that we may face. However, certified copy, the man sadly explains that he and his ex-wife we have food to eat, dorms to live in, and we are getting an cannot afford to pay the high fee, and with an aching heart, I amazing dual college education. As we embrace the coming show them the way out of the courthouse. This past summer, I interned for a domestic court judge in my hometown of Cleveland, Ohio. Over the course of the summer, I witnessed events like those described above every day. I saw The stark contrast so many people who were struggling to make ends meet, could barely afford to put food on their tables, and took years to end between the life I live and a relationship that was detrimental both to them and to their children. the lives of those I saw in On my way home from the courthouse, I would see forty people lined up in front of a homeless shelter to get a bed to sleep in for the night. The houses in the surrounding area are old court opened my eyes to and broken, and the sidewalks are lined with people sleeping on blankets. Then, I would drive about 20 more minutes to just how much I must be arrive in Beachwood, the suburb where my family lives; and it is as if I have entered another world. The lawns are well kept, grateful for. the roads are freshly-paved, and little trees have been planted by the sidewalk. There are few streetlights, so as to create the Opinions September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 15

Meal Plan or Meal Scam? Dalya Hirt

Last year, as I was preparing to begin my first year on the While I was not yet desperate enough to shuttle back and forth I didn’t want all the money to go to waste, so, I began offering Beren Campus, I was nervous about many aspects of college to the Heights to shop at the YC convenience store, I decided to pay for other people’s food who were waiting in line with life. When it was time for me to sign up for the Stern College to try to make more of an effort to spend more money in the me to pay in the caf. Since so many other girls were looking housing and meal plan, I had concerns only about the residence Stern cafeterias. For some, that probably does not sound like to spend all of their money too, though, no one wanted to take aspect, which I quickly found out were unfounded–I loved my too difficult a task, but for me, it was. me up on that offer. I also had a cousin who had just started at roommates. I had no concerns about the meal plan; due to YC in the Post-Pesach program who didn’t have a meal plan, so the fact that since it was my first semester, my only choice was The first issue I had was the fact that the Beren campus cafeterias I gave him my ID number, knowing he eats more than me and to be on the $1,750 per semester plan. I am a picky eater; I don’t open until 8:30 a.m. As an early riser, I couldn’t wait he’d probably be able to help me use the money. For the first knew I probably wouldn’t spend all of the money on dining. that long for my morning coffee, and had to resort to alternate few days of the Post-Pesach program this plan worked well, but Despite this, I figured I could use my caf card at the campus options, such as the Starbucks between Park and Lexington. as soon as the cafeteria employees noticed this trend of male convenience stores to buy toiletries and other necessities. As Being that I woke up earlier, I got hungry earlier as a result. I students using ID numbers at YC to buy caf food, they stopped I spent more time on campus, however, I realized this was not would try to remember to buy something from the caf the day allowing it. the case. My pre-school jitters had washed away, yet instead of before to have for breakfast the next morning. Unfortunately, feeling a sense of relief, a new stress arose. The enormity of my I usually forgot, so cafeteria breakfast just wasn’t a practical Though this was upsetting, I came up with an alternate plan meal plan began to concern me. option for me. Lunch, on the other hand, I was very consistent to ensure my money wouldn’t go to waste. I started buying with. However, my lunch would never cost more than $15.00, non-perishable items that my family could use, and gradually As I settled into routine, I realized that although I was eating and in the scheme of things, this didn’t amount to very much. sent them back home to Lawrence. This too went well at first, my meals in the cafeteria, I wasn’t spending nearly enough When it came to dinner, it was a fight against the clock. If I but once again the cafeteria employees noticed a trend, as I to finish the plan by the was most certainly not the only end of the semester. I student who was trying this had heard that the store My pre-school jitters had washed away, yet instead strategy. They implemented a in the Schottenstein dorm new rule that students cannot building sold items such as spend over $100 of caf money toilet paper which would of feeling a sense of relief, a new stress arose. The in one day, which made it even be a smart way for me to more challenging for me to make use the remainder of my enormity of my meal plan began to concern me. use of the remaining sum on my caf money. Yet whenever meal plan. Not only did this leave I went to 29th street, they me with about $1000 left on my were conveniently out of caf card at the end of the school such items. After a few unsuccessful trips, I gave up on the was able to get to the cafeteria within the first hour of dinner year but it made me jump to some conclusions about Yeshiva Schott store, choosing to go to the geographically convenient service, it was great; I would spend around the same amount of University and the student meal services. Duane Reade for toilet paper runs. Unfortunately, that was not money as I did at lunch. The catch was that if I came a little bit as financially convenient. later, there would be no food left, or at least nothing fresh to It is apparent that the caterer and the school, by extension, eat. It didn’t help that the caf food is not all that enticing; since really do not want students to use up their meal plans. Students Now, in addition to my $1,750 per-semester meal plan, I my friends and I were not eager to eat it, we did not usually who live on campus are forced to be on a large meal plan which was paying out of pocket for items at Duane Reade that I had prioritize getting there early. We would end up going to one isn’t fair because the food isn’t even that good (and one would thought I’d be able to buy at the YU convenience store with my of the restaurants where we could use our Omni money, like expect that YU should have the best kosher food so it’s very caf money. This is a problem I frequently discussed with fellow Mendy’s, which is conveniently located, always has fresh food, deceiving). The only conclusion I was able to come to is that first year Brookdale residents while riding the jam-packed and is open late. someone is making a profit off of our remaining cafeteria Stern elevators. I found that most of them shared my struggle. money. It’s unclear whether that money is going to the caterer The minority of first year Brookdale residents who didn’t view Spending the Omni money was easy; I could use it at great local or to the university itself, but it’s clear that students shouldn’t this as such a problem were those who were willing to go all restaurants and the sum wasn’t very much in the scheme of be obligated to sign up for a meal plan that is larger than the way to the Heights, where the student stores are more things. However, the problem of my large, nonrefundable sum necessary. Additionally, the school should refund all of the frequently restocked, to buy non-food items. of regular caf money still remained. In fact, I somehow still had students who, like me, were cheated by the University dining $1,700 left after Spring Break. Since this money would not be services. usable after the last day of Spring Semester, I panicked. September 2017/ Elul 5777 • Page 15