News Briefs

YSU Vice President of Classes Jacob Herenstein Runs for Local Town Council

Continuing to explore opportunity in the realm of elected office, YSU Vice President Jacob Herenstein has declared a candidacy for one of 3 available slots on the 7-member Teaneck Town Council. Herenstein, a resident of Teaneck, NJ his entire life and by far the youngest candidate in the race, will be running against 6 other Teaneck residents, including two incumbent council members, Councilmen Mark Schwartz and Henry Pruitt. In order to be placed on the ballot, Herenstein must gather 261 signatures by March 7th. Despite his age and lack of experience in local politics, Herenstein is hopeful he can add a fresh voice to the council and has already begun weighing in on local issues like the development of new apartment buildings in a relatively undeveloped part of town, which he supports. Herenstein said “I decided to run for town council because I truly believe I can make a difference in Teaneck's growth.” He continued, “I have been a resident of Teaneck since 1996. When I grew up, places like Cedar Lane were thriving with businesses, restaurants, and stores. Now, the same establishments struggle to remain open. I believe that with more multi-family residential units, there can be more commercial stability in town, thereby helping these establishments remain open and adding to Teaneck's culture.” The election will take place on May 10th.

Robert Kraft to Receive Honorary Title at Commencement

Robert Kraft, founder, chairman, and CEO of the Kraft Group and owner of the New England Patriots, will receive an honorary degree and deliver the commencement speech this May as hundreds of Yeshiva University undergraduates receive their diploma at Madison Square Garden. Yeshiva University President Richard M. Joel  said that Mr. Kraft’s “success on and off the field, his profound humanity, his willingness to stand up for the Jewish people and Jewish causes make him an ideal role model for our students.” Mr. Kraft, who has donated upwards of $100 million to charitable causes, will receive the degree of Doctor of Humane Letters, highlighting his staunch commitment to the betterment of humanity. Mr. Kraft  joins a list of notable YU honorary degree recipients, including four United States Presidents.