Brandeis University has recently been awarded with an “A” grade on the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) Campus Antisemitism Report card, making it one of only two universities nationwide to attain this top rating. The accolade recognizes Brandeis’ commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment for its Jewish community amid rising concerns about antisemitism on college campuses. This evaluation was shared by Brandeis on its official Instagram account on April 11.
The ADL’s assessment methodically evaluates American colleges and universities across various criteria, including the presence of Jewish student life organizations, the implementation of policies against antisemitism and the university’s response to antisemitic incidents on campus. According to the ADL report, “Brandeis has 1,300 Jewish students, representing 35% of the student population. The campus has a Hillel, Chabad, Jewish Greek life organizations as well as the Schusterman Center for Israel Studies.” This highlights the vibrant Jewish community within the Brandeis community.
Moreover, the report highlights Brandeis University’s proactive stance against antisemitism. The report notes, “Brandeis has established partnership with the Foundation to Combat Antisemitism and has received funding for new classes on antisemitism. The Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies recently published a report titled In the Shadow of War: Hotspots of Antisemitism on US College Campuses.”
Brandeis University has also launched initiatives such as the “Presidential Initiative to Counter Antisemitism in Higher Education, aimed at educating university administrators on effectively addressing antisemitism.” Brandeis mandates antisemitism education for its entire campus community and maintains a policy of “active engagement with and support for Israel.”
These actions, among other, illustrate Brandeis University’s proactive and comprehensive approach to combating antisemitism and supporting its Jewish students, faculty and staff. As noted in its Instagram announcement, Brandeis University commented on the beliefs of Brandeis’ founders, stating that “Our founders knew that hate often begins with but rarely ends at antisemitism, and we are proud to be acknowledged for our continued support for our Jewish students, faculty, and staff at a time when some campuses are struggling to protect those members of their communities.”
