Yeshiva University welcomed Congresswoman Elise Stefanik on April 22 for a special edition of Great Conversations with Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman. The event, titled “Celebrating Israel, America and the Hope for Higher Education,” explored the role of universities in public life, current challenges facing higher education, and the importance of open dialogue and leadership.
The discussion comes as universities across the country face scrutiny over their handling of free expression and campus climate issues. Stefanik’s appearance coincided with the release of her new book, Poisoned Ivies: The Inside Account of the Academic and Moral Rot at America’s Elite Universities, which draws from her experience in Congress to examine what she describes as far-left indoctrination, institutional failure, and rising antisemitism within top American universities.
“Congresswoman Stefanik has demonstrated extraordinary courage in addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing higher education today,” said Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President of Yeshiva University. “At a time when universities are confronting fundamental questions about their very existence, her leadership has helped shape a national conversation that puts the spotlight on moral clarity. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, universities have a renewed responsibility to educate students with both intellectual rigor and strong principles.”
Stefanik drew national attention during a December 2023 congressional hearing when she questioned presidents from Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology and University of Pennsylvania about whether calls for genocide against Jews would violate university policies on bullying or harassment. When leaders responded that it would “depend on context,” she denounced this response as an ethical failure within higher education—a moment that became widely viewed in congressional history.
During its 2025 Commencement exercises Yeshiva University honored Stefanik with its Presidential Medallion for Global Leadership for her leadership and support for Jewish communities. “I was honored to visit Yeshiva University and meet its students and faculty,” said Congresswoman Stefanik. “Under Rabbi Berman’s distinguished leadership, the University has become a globally respected institution of scholarship and values, bringing a clear sense of purpose and conviction to the challenges facing higher education today. I enjoyed a meaningful exchange and engaging with students who are preparing to lead in this important moment.”
Over more than ten years in Congress Stefanik has served on several committees including Armed Services; Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence; Education & Workforce; focusing especially on oversight related to free expression and accountability at colleges.
Yeshiva University builds a community focused on Jewish values while integrating secular studies under Torah Umadda philosophy; it operates separate undergraduate colleges for men and women; offers programs spanning arts, sciences, business law medicine Jewish studies; is recognized as a pioneer in modern Orthodox education—all according to the official website.
