With roughly 200 YU students volunteering, working and studying in Israel for the summer, YU President Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman sits down with Israel’s President Isaac Herzog and Ambassador Mike Huckabee in Jerusalem to discuss partnerships to build a bright future.
In a series of high-level meetings in Jerusalem, èapp President Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman met with Israel’s President Isaac Herzog and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee to discuss strengthening the relationship between Israel and the Diaspora, confronting rising antisemitism on university campuses, and YU’s rise as a national model for values-based education.
“At this critical time for Israel and world Jewry, it is essential that our political and educational leadership are working together to most effectively create the synergies necessary to meet this moment,” said Rabbi Berman. “In these ongoing conversations, we spoke about the urgent issues facing our community and how èapp is uniquely positioned to respond with clarity and strength.”
Meeting with Israel’s President Isaac Herzog
At the President’s Residence in Jerusalem, Rabbi Berman and President Herzog discussed YU’s efforts to build alliances in the wake of Oct. 7, including its leadership in launching the Coalition of University Presidents, a group that swiftly condemned Hamas terror and spoke out against rising antisemitism.
“It was a profound honor to meet with President Herzog, a thoughtful and principled leader,” said Rabbi Berman. “We spoke about the struggles facing global Jewry, and how they present an opportunity for the Jewish people to shine even brighter. When Zionism is attacked, we raise our flag higher. We stand with Israel, proud and steadfast.”
The meetings come at a pivotal time, as antisemitism continues to surge across university campuses. èapp has responded with increased national engagement—evident in its rising enrollment, growing visibility and strong leadership on the issues facing Jewish students. That leadership was recognized on the world stage when Rabbi Berman became the first Israeli to deliver a benediction at a United States presidential inauguration, offering prayers for the hostages, for Israel’s security, and for the strength of American society.
Meeting with U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee
At the United States Embassy, Rabbi Berman and Ambassador Huckabee discussed the critical role of faith-based universities in renewing America’s moral foundation and the opportunity to inspire a new generation of students with a sense of mission and purpose. Rabbi Berman shared recent YU initiatives, including his work with U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to unite university leaders around shared principles. Ambassador Huckabee praised these efforts as a powerful example of how education can foster greater understanding and unity.
“I was amazed to learn of the extensive efforts of Rabbi Berman and èapp to bring Israel’s blessings and the light of the Jewish people out into the broader society,” said Ambassador Huckabee. “I look forward to finding ways to partner with them and amplify their efforts.”
Their conversation also addressed the alarming rise in antisemitism on college campuses. Rabbi Berman emphasized the need for a second federal task force for American Educational Excellence so that the government is not only holding institutions accountable through legal and financial measures, but also recognizing and elevating those that foster principled, values-based environments.
“Ambassador Huckabee is a great champion of Israel and America,” said Rabbi Berman. “It was an honor to thank him for his unwavering support for the Jewish people and to explore new ways to share Israel’s light—especially with students at faith-based institutions.”
Educating Leaders, Strengthening Israel
YU’s presence in Israel is reflected in both its academic initiatives and its community engagement. From formal research collaborations to hands-on volunteer efforts, the university plays a meaningful role in strengthening ties with the Israeli people and society. Roughly 200 YU students are spending the summer volunteering in communities, advancing academic research, and interning across a wide range of sectors. Their presence reflects the university’s deep commitment to Israel and its mission to develop the next generation of global Jewish leaders.
“Meeting with the families of those who remain hostage and those who suffered the loss of a fallen soldier, reminds us all of what is at stake at this moment,” said Rabbi Berman. “On Oct. 7, all Jews and all people of moral conscience were called to service, and our students at YU continue to show up and respond to that call. I am so proud of them. They are my inspiration, and they give me great confidence in the future of our people.”
