Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Since its founding in 1954, Stern College for Women has played a significant role in shaping women's higher education within the Jewish community. Established by Yeshiva University, Stern College has become a notable institution for women pursuing careers in various fields while continuing their Jewish studies.
The college began with an inaugural class of 32 students and was founded through a generous donation from Max Stern, president of Hartz Mountain Corp., in honor of his parents. The main building at 253 Lexington Ave., originally built in 1911, housed the Packard Commercial School before becoming part of YU’s Israel Henry Beren Campus.
Stern College has continuously expanded its academic offerings to meet student demand. Notable programs include the Rebecca Ivry Department of Jewish Studies, which is recognized as the largest undergraduate Jewish studies program for women in the United States. Additionally, the S. Daniel Abraham Honors Program and the Graduate Program in Advanced Talmud/Tanach Studies have been established to enhance educational opportunities.
Dr. Karen Bacon's tenure as dean from 1977 to 2024 marked a period of significant growth for Stern College. Her leadership saw an increase in student enrollment, faculty expansion, and development of new academic programs and facilities.
Throughout its history, Stern College has hosted numerous dignitaries and public figures. In May 1958, Eleanor Roosevelt visited during "Stern College Month," proclaimed by New York City Mayor Robert F. Wagner to celebrate the school's first commencement. Other notable visitors have included Isaac Bashevis Singer, Maya Angelou, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks and Lady Elaine Sacks.
In recent years, STEM-related majors have gained popularity among students at Stern College. Graduates have secured positions with leading tech companies and gained admission to prestigious graduate schools across the country. Law school acceptance rates reached 94% in 2024, while dental and medical school admissions were at 100% over five years.
Stern alumnae have achieved success across various fields and many serve as Torah scholars worldwide. Distinguished graduates include Dr. Nechama Price, Rabbanit Chana Henkin, Dr. Erica Brown, Dafna Michaelson Jenet and others who contribute significantly to their communities.
Students at Stern are also known for their commitment to chesed (kindness) activities such as supporting victims after September 11 attacks or advocating for global causes like Soviet Jewry or Darfur's plight.
Today boasting record enrollment numbers—760 students enrolled this fall—the college continues thriving as an esteemed institution offering premier Torah-focused education alongside rigorous secular studies preparation that shapes future leaders committed both professionally & spiritually towards making positive impacts globally & locally alike!
Stern College will host an Open House on Sunday November17th; interested individuals can learn more about it via yu.edu/openhouse
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