#USA #New York #Yeshiva University #Isaac Herzog #Hannukah Dinner

Israeli President Isaac Herzog to Receive Honorary Doctorate

The prestigious Yeshiva University in New York is set to welcome the President of the State of Israel, His Excellency Isaac Herzog, as the guest of honor for its 101st Annual Hanukkah Dinner. Scheduled for December, this event will also mark the momentous occasion where President Herzog will be awarded an honorary doctorate in recognition of his outstanding leadership, moral courage, and unwavering commitment to the Jewish community.

A Historic Celebration

As a vital institution aiming to integrate Jewish values with superior academic standards, Yeshiva University exemplifies a legacy that spans over a century. The University, guided by its President Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, serves as a vital resource and hub for Jewish education. This year’s Hanukkah Dinner promises to spotlight the remarkable advancements made by the institution, particularly its focus on health sciences and educational innovation.

The dinner will not only honor President Herzog but will also pay tribute to the incredible contributions of the Katz Family, legendary benefactors whose generosity has been pivotal in molding the University’s development. The evening will also recognize Wendy Fisher, a renowned leader in global philanthropy and the arts, underscoring the varied avenues through which education and Jewish values intersect.

Significance of the Honorary Doctorate

President Herzog’s honorary doctorate is a meaningful recognition, commemorating not just his individual achievements but also the enduring legacy of his family. His father, Chaim Herzog, was honored similarly by the University in 1976. Meanwhile, his grandfather, Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, the very first Chief Rabbi of Israel, remains a towering figure whose teachings continue to echo within the institution.

Rabbi Berman articulated, "President Herzog represents the enduring story of the Jewish people and the brightest hopes for our future. He embodies ideals of purpose, excellence, and unity that we strive for at Yeshiva University."

The Legacy of the Katz Family

In addition to President Herzog's accolades, the evening will celebrate the Katz Family with the Second Century Medallion for their lifetime of vision and support. The Katz Family has been instrumental in establishing the Katz School of Science and Health, a facility that empowers the future generation to chase careers in science and health, proving that investing in education is all about investing in people.

Honoring Wendy Fisher

The honor bestowed upon Wendy Fisher further emphasizes Yeshiva University’s commitment to arts, education, and the ongoing quest for Jewish continuity. As the president of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation, Fisher's influence reflects a keen understanding of cultural leadership. Her recent contributions include an endowed Chair in Jewish Studies, aimed at welcoming and engaging unaffiliated individuals into the University, showcasing her profound belief in the unifying power of education.

Looking to the Future

Yeshiva University is experiencing an unprecedented phase of growth, with a remarkable 60% increase in graduate school enrollment since 2016 and a monumental 400% growth in its Katz School since its founding. The commitment to maintaining high academic standards and inspiring future leaders continues unabated. Fundraising efforts are progressing toward the ambitious $613 million 'Rise Up' campaign, and plans for a new state-of-the-art health sciences campus demonstrate a bold vision for future impact.

Anita Zucker, Dinner Chair and benefactor of the Anita Zucker Scholarship for Jewish Early Childhood Education at Yeshiva University, expressed enthusiasm about the event: "This dinner marks not only a celebration of YU's past but also the beginning of its bold new chapter. The enthusiasm surrounding this event speaks to the unity and commitment that defines the Yeshiva University community."

Yeshiva University's deep-rooted mission mirrors President Herzog’s vision of moral leadership, actively working to uplift humanity through the inherent values of Jewish heritage. As the evening unfolds, guests will not only partake in a festive celebration but also stand in solidarity with an institution that seeks to shine a light amidst confusion and darkness—a true reflection of the Hanukkah spirit.