Yeshiva University - Masmid Yearbook (New York, NY)

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Ai very best those founders back in 1886 might have hoped for perpetuity, rather than growth, of their yeshiva. Growth, had it been considered at all, could not have been more than a chimera. The degree to which the yeshiva both grew and metamorphosed was unimaginable, incomprehensible. They could never have foreseen the concrete reality of a major fortress of learning, still in flux eighty- two years later. 3 ' ttI ■

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Dr. Revel was the greatest dreamer ever to come to the yeshiva. Under his guidance the dream began to take form as a concrete reality. He wanted to synthesize, to make the study of Jewish culture equally as important as that of classical and modern cultures. In 1928 his efforts bore fruit: Yeshiva College opened its doors. Dr. Revel brought the greatest rabbis and scholars to Yeshiva. He drove himself compulsively to strengthen the fledgling college he had formed. His great guiding work for Yeshiva came to an end with his death in December of 1940 at the age of forty-five. In 1943 Dr. Revel ' s successor, Dr. Samuel Belkin, assumed the presidency. Two years later the college became a university. New colleges— Einstein, Stern. Harry Fischel, Bernard Revel, Ferkauf Cantorial Training Institute, and the Jewish Studies Program— were founded. In addition, preparatory high schools were established. As the University grew. Teachers ' Institute, which had been absorbed in 1920, became Erna Michael College, and the Jewish Studies Pro- gram became the James Striar School of General Jewish Studies. As the University expanded over four campuses, science centers, hospitals, dormitories, libraries, and classroom buildings were constructed for student use.

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extend mv warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Yeshiva College Class of 1968. You go forward from Yeshiva College to face new challenges which will draw on the knowledge and strength you have gained through your studies in the liberal arts and sciences and the moral and spiritual teachings of Judaism. Men, like institutions, must forever develop their resources if they are to cope with the pressures of modern life. You have had the unique opportunity at Yeshiva College to build a foundation for further intellectual and spiritual development. In the years ahead it is to you that we will turn for the leadership of our communities, for the inspiration of our youth, for service to the nation and the world. It is you who will carry forward our sacred traditions. I have abiding faith that you will utilize your education for consecrated service to the Creator and your fellowmen. May you be granted the blessings of life, peace, and understanding. Sincerely vours. Samuel Belkin President