Israeli Students Explore America’s Jewish Community and Yeshiva University On Monday, June 3, 2019, Yeshiva University hosted a group of 40 students from Israel's Ein Prat, The Academy for Leadership, a pre-military, leadership-focused center that attracts high school graduates from across religious, political and social spectrums. The trip was organized by Rabbi Dr. Stu Halpern, senior adviser to the provost, as a way to increase the students’ knowledge and awareness of America’s Jewish community and give them a glimpse into the history and future of Yeshiva University. They began their visit at the Office of the President, where they learned more about the University’s strong support of Israel as pictures of the country’s many prime ministers who have visited the campus over the years looked down on them from the walls. They were also given a brief overview of YU’s unique educational model and learned about the University’s distinctive academic offerings. Afterwards, students had the chance to meet with several YU deans and directors. Dr. Rona Novick, dean of the Azrieli Graduate School for Jewish Education and Administration, discussed what drives Azrieli’s success in preparing the Jewish educators serving communities across the United States and around the world.

Dr. Rona Novick talks to Ein Prat students

Rabbi Yaakov Glasser, David Mitzner dean of the Center for the Jewish Future (CJF), described how CJF and Yeshiva University train the leaders who will impact and educate Jews throughout the world. Rabbi Dr. Ari Sytner of the Wurzweiler School of Social Work and the director of community initiatives for CJF, shared his research on dating and marriage and discussed how these psychological findings can provide insight into creating and maintaining healthy relationships. Having a chance to engage with one another was an inspiring experience for both the faculty and visiting students. YU looks forward to hosting Ein Prat students on subsequent visits in the years ahead.