May 6, 2004 -- Eager to begin her PhD in Near Eastern studies this fall at Princeton University, Bella Tendler hopes to create a mutual understanding between Jews and Muslims and open a dialogue that is not plagued by stereotypes. “As a Zionist, I never allowed myself to acknowledge a Muslim perspective,” said the 2004 graduate of Stern College for Women. “The same is true on the Muslim side. Nobody wants to think critically about the other’s claims. Understanding is essential though. Whether protecting oneself in times of war or conducting dialogue in times of peace, it is crucial to work with accurate knowledge rather than cultural generalizations.” Ms. Tendler plans a career in academia where she hopes to broaden the Jewish community’s knowledge of Islam through teaching, writing, and lecturing. Ms. Tendler double majored in history and creative writing. “Bella was a remarkable student who stood out for the quality of her mind and her inexhaustible intellectual curiosity and desire for learning,” said Ellen Schrecker, PhD, professor of history. “It was clear from the first minute she appeared in one of my classes that she was destined for a distinguished academic career. Having her in my classes was like having a colleague there. Her questions were invariably probing and thoughtful and on occasion helped me to rethink the material I was teaching.” Dr. Schrecker added that Yeshiva University would be lucky if Bella returned to teach at her alma mater. “Bella is in that small category of truly outstanding students,” said Carole Silver, PhD, professor of English said. “It's not just her ability to analyze brilliantly and synthesize materials in several fields that's so special; it's her excitement about learning and her desire to go beyond the usual. In addition, she's a lovely person, modest, honest, sensitive to others, a real delight with whom to speak.” During her years at SCW, Ms. Tendler was president of the dramatics society, organized the poetry and prose performances university’s arts festival, and was cofounder and editor of the school’s literary journal. She is the granddaughter of Rabbi Moshe D. Tendler, professor of biology; Rabbi Isaac and Bella Tendler Chair in Jewish Medical Ethics; and rosh yeshiva at YU’s affiliated Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary.