Ambassador Mike Huckabee to Deliver YU Commencement Address

U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee will deliver Yeshiva University’s 95th commencement address on May 28 at the Louis Armstrong Stadium in Queens. Huckabee will also receive YU’s Presidential Medallion, the school’s highest award.

The ceremony is expected to draw approximately 5,000 graduates, family members, faculty and guests. According to YU News, this year’s theme “America 250,” marks the 250th anniversary of the United States alongside YU’s 140-year role in American higher education. 

President Ari Berman described Huckabee as a “true hero and friend of the United States, the State of Israel, the Jewish people, and all people.”

“As our nation approaches its 250th anniversary, his leadership reflects the core values that shape both the American story and the mission of Yeshiva University,” Berman told YU News. “It is a privilege to welcome him as we recognize a new generation of graduates prepared to lead with character, conviction, and a commitment to building a better world.” 

Huckabee said in a statement that YU “is a globally respected institution defined by both academic excellence and a strong ethical foundation…a powerful example of how education can inspire purpose, strengthen communities and transform the future.”

Before he was appointed ambassador, Huckabee served as the 44th governor of Arkansas from 1996 to 2007. He ran for president in 2008 and 2016, finishing second in the Republican primary in 2008. He has also worked as a Fox News contributor, author and host of the television program “Huckabee.”

Huckabee has received several pro-Israel honors, including the Friend of Israel Award from the Israel Heritage Foundation and the Friend of Zion Defender Award from the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA). 

“There are few politicians who have demonstrated stronger support for Israel than Ambassador Huckabee,” Judah Troodler (SSSB ‘26) told The Commentator. “While I look forward to hearing his commencement address, it is also unfortunate that the current political climate makes it so that YU feels obligated to invite a political figure whose strong support for Israel is such a defining factor. It speaks to the reality facing the Jewish community today.”

“It is an honor to hear Ambassador Huckabee at this year’s graduation ceremony,” Leah Goldfisher (SSSB ‘26) told The Commentator. “As a Jewish American, it is that much more important to honor people who support America, the Jewish people and the State of Israel.”

Past Presidential Medallion recipients include Maj. Gen. (res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, a key developer of Israel’s Iron Dome missile defense system, Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) and Rep. Elise Stefanik (R-N.Y.).

Photo Caption: Ambassador Huckabee with President Berman

Photo Credit: Yeshiva University