(Courtesy of Jewish Business Network) Touro University recently sponsored a JBN Gabelli Executive Business Roundtable bringing together a select group of local Jewish business leaders and professionals for an engaging and insightful discussion on leadership, education, and adopting a positive approach to countering anti-Semitism in academic and professional environments.
Attendees were welcomed to the NYMC campus, a proud part of Touro University, which stands as the largest institution of higher learning in the healthcare sector. With over 35 schools and more than 19,000 students worldwide, Touro’s global reach reflects its dedication to innovation and excellence in education.
As the only medical and dental school outside of Israel under Jewish auspices, Touro is committed to preserving Jewish traditions, such as observing the Jewish calendar and kashrut, while also fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. Despite facing occasional antisemitic rhetoric, primarily through social media, Touro has taken proactive steps to address these issues, ensuring a safe and supportive atmosphere for all students and faculty. The university has not experienced any protests or demonstrations on its campuses and remains at the forefront of creating a welcoming environment, with notable leadership from Touro President Dr. Alan Kadish and Chancellor Dr. Edward Halperin.
The business breakfast, chaired by Adam Hammerman, vice president and CFO of New York Medical College, featured a moderated roundtable discussion led by Lyle Domenitz, partner at Strategies for Wealth, with special remarks by David Ross, managing director at Neuberger Berman. The interactive discussion focused on the importance of adopting a positive approach to countering anti-Semitic rhetoric in both college campuses and workplaces. Through the lens of Jewish values, participants explored how education and proudly expressing one’s Jewish identity contribute to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment.
Judaism teaches that darkness cannot be chased away with negativity. Instead, one must light a candle, as even a small amount of light can dispel a great deal of darkness.
“We are grateful to Touro University and New York Medical College for hosting this important roundtable,” said Hammerman. “The discussions we had here today underscore the power of education and inclusivity in countering challenges and creating spaces where all students can thrive.”
Participants left the roundtable with a renewed sense of purpose, focused on creating a welcoming environment based on mutual respect in the workplace and encouraging people of all faiths to lead lives based on universal Divine morals and ethics in both academic and workplace settings.
