Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman was appointed Wednesday as the new president of Yeshiva University, the school’s board of trustees announced.
Berman, who will be the university’s fifth president, begins his tenure in July 2017. He is a university graduate.
He succeeds Richard M. Joel, who became president in 2003.
“Yeshiva University, with its distinct mission and singular ability to teach how to integrate the world around us within our Torah lives, is uniquely positioned to educate the next generation of students and enable them to capitalize on the blessings of this era,” Berman said.
Berman now leads Hechal Shlomo – Jewish Heritage Center in Jerusalem and is transforming “the historic organization into an international modern Orthodox center for Jewish life, learning and leadership,” according to the university.
In addition, Berman is a lecturer of rabbinic literature in Herzog College’s Department of Jewish Studies. He also sits on the college’s Executive Leadership Council.
Before moving to Israel, Berman was rabbi at The Jewish Center in New York City and a Talmud instructor at the Irving I. Stone Beit Midrash Program at Yeshiva College.
“Rabbi Berman is a dynamic and inspirational leader, scholar and educator,” said YU Chairman Moshael J. Straus, who led the selection committee. “He possesses a deep, life-long commitment to our mission and is a superb choice to lead Yeshiva University forward with excellence.”
