Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman, President and Rosh Yeshiva | Yeshiva University
The inaugural cohort of the Senator Joseph Lieberman-Mitzner Scholars recently participated in a private discussion with Clarine Nardi Riddle, a member of the executive advisory board of the Senator Joseph Lieberman-Mitzner Center for Public Service and Advocacy. Riddle, who previously served as chief of staff to Senator Lieberman, engaged with students on various topics including her career in law, her work with Senator Lieberman, and the rise of antisemitism in America.
"You are all barrier breakers by being the first class of the Lieberman-Mitzner Center," Riddle remarked to the students. "What I have found through the years is those that break through the door the first time, they are called upon through life to recall that. You are going to make a difference for all of us."
Riddle shared insights from her career journey, which began in math and science before she transitioned into public service and advocacy after becoming involved with women's rights organizations like YWCA. Her perseverance led her to become Attorney General of Connecticut and argue cases before the United States Supreme Court despite facing sexism in law.
Reflecting on her collaboration with Senator Lieberman, Riddle fondly recalled their morning meetings where he would eat an entire apple, core included. She also discussed their work with No Labels, an organization aimed at fostering bipartisan cooperation among politicians to address American issues.
On antisemitism's rise, Riddle pointed to internet anonymity as a factor enabling hateful discourse without personal accountability.
When asked about Senator Lieberman's philosophy on success, Riddle emphasized three pillars: helping people regardless of one's job; effective communication; and maintaining a moral compass.
The dialogue was part of several programs hosted by the Lieberman Center this year. These included its official launch featuring a documentary screening about Joe Lieberman; a panel on Israel advocacy; and events related to the 2024 Presidential Election.
For more information about the Senator Joseph Lieberman-Mitzner Scholars Program or related activities at the center, interested individuals can connect via social media platforms such as Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
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