Mission
Founded in 2023 in response to surging antisemitism on American campuses, the Brandeis University President's Initiative on Antisemitism honors Brandeis’ distinct responsibility to the Jewish community and to the ideals of higher education.
Brandeis, as a research institution, is uniquely situated to examine issues of antisemitism on campus and to develop data-driven responses. We are committed to enhancing understanding of antisemitism in all of its manifestations and to emboldening leaders to challenge antisemitism on their campuses.
We endeavor to:
- convene and support university leaders in common cause,
- raise awareness and sensitivity of antisemitism in higher education,
- partner with expert researchers and practitioners to enhance understanding,
- provide tools and resources for data-driven, action-focused practices,
- create communities of practice to share innovations and network with colleagues,
- share insights with educational leaders of middle and high schools.
Message from the President
from President Arthur Levine
In 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.
*Events for the Initiative are made possible by the generous support from the Robert Kraft Family and the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism (FCAS).