NYC Gazette

Yeshiva University celebrates Dr. Herbert Dobrinsky’s six decades of impact

In the corridors of academia, where philanthropy enables the pursuit of knowledge, there exists a figure whose name is synonymous with translating values into action. For 60 years, Dr. Herbert C. Dobrinsky, Yeshiva University’s Vice President for University Affairs, has worked tirelessly toward the goal of strengthening and advancing the institution he loves.

Serving under four of YU’s five presidents, Dr. Dobrinsky is a product of Yeshiva University, graduating from Yeshiva University’s High School for Boys (’50), Yeshiva College (’54), Rabbi Elchanan Theological Seminary (RIETS) (’57), and the Ferkauf Graduate School of Psychology (’59). In 1980, he continued at Ferkauf to earn his doctoral degree. He dedicated his career to endeavors that elevated the University's stature and transformed countless lives.

“Dr. Dobrinsky has left an indelible mark on this University, one that will continue to touch generations of students,” said Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President of Yeshiva University. “While he has benefitted countless lives and has had a large-scale impact on Jewish history, Dr. Dobrinsky is perhaps best celebrated for his love and individual care for each and every one of our students, alumni and benefactors.”

Dr. Dobrinsky personifies YU by blending Torah scholarship with academic excellence and devotion to the Jewish people. Known for transforming dreams into tangible realities through philanthropy, he was invited by Yeshiva University to a leadership position in the Community Service Division after serving as rabbi of Beth Israel Synagogue in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

He later became Vice President for University Affairs and launched a planned giving program advocating gifts that help secure the University's future. A co-founder of YU’s Sephardic Community Program and Sephardic Studies Program, he authored "A Treasury of Sephardic Laws and Customs," used worldwide.

Dr. Dobrinsky played a crucial role in founding the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration by securing $1 million from David J. Azrieli z”l of Montreal and later an additional $3 million from matching gifts.

“There is only one Dr. Dobrinsky in this universe," said Senior Philanthropic Advisor Daniel Forman who served as Vice President of Institutional Advancement from 1995 to 2015. "He has worked every day with tireless passion and unparalleled commitment to YU’s mission."

As his career spanning six decades draws to a close, Yeshiva University pays homage to his unwavering dedication which raised hundreds of millions for the university while fostering a culture that believes in shaping a brighter Jewish future.