Message from the President

From President Arthur Levine

Headshot of Brandeis University President Arthur LevineIn 1948, Brandeis opened its doors to those closed out elsewhere — not only Jewish students and scholars, but people of all identities who were marginalized or excluded from America’s elite institutions. That foundational act of justice was not merely symbolic; it shaped who we are and what we continue to stand for.

As President of Brandeis University, I am both humbled and resolute in affirming our institution’s historic and present-day role in confronting antisemitism with purpose, courage and integrity.

We were born of a moral imperative.

Today, that imperative calls us to lead once again. The resurgence of antisemitism, especially on college campuses, is not an abstract threat — it is a reality for many. Brandeis stands equipped with the values, the scholarship and the vision to lead. Our approach is deeply academic and unflinchingly practical.

We convene higher education leaders and trustees, empower educators, support Jewish communal organizations and drive research that yields real-world impact. This is not performative. It is purposeful. We do not simply react — we prepare, educate and transform.

In this pivotal moment, Brandeis is not only upholding its founding vision, but also expanding upon it. The work is urgent, and our commitment is unwavering.