Yeshiva University announced New York State Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder will lead its government relations efforts beginning this fall. Goldfeder will work to strengthen and develop relationships between the University and federal, state and local governments, and monitor legislation and policies that could have an impact on YU and its programs. Goldfeder represents the 23rd District in the New York State Assembly, which includes Ozone Park, Howard Beach, Broad Channel and Rockaway, and has announced that he is not seeking reelection.

“YU has developed several public-private partnerships over the past few years, which are resulting in academic and facility improvements,” said President Richard M. Joel. “When we began exploring how we could take our successes with government relations to the next level, it was clear that Phil was uniquely qualified for this role.”

Andrew (Avi) Lauer, Vice President for Legal Affairs and General Counsel at YU, added: “I have had the privilege of knowing and working with Phil for many years from the time he worked in the Mayor’s Office, through his work with Senator Schumer and most recently as a New York State legislator. I look forward to working closely with him and have every confidence that he will represent YU with the same passion, professionalism and vigor as he has his constituents for so many years.”

Goldfeder expressed that he is excited his public service will continue but in a new way. He said, “I have dedicated my life in public service to ensuring a better future for all our families. This begins by providing our children with a world-class education that will enable them to be successful and contribute to the community. I’m excited to utilize my diverse experience to advance the mission and goals of the University.”

Goldfeder’s career in public service began as a community liaison for the New York City Council. His passion for community service, along with his unique ability to understand the needs in the neighborhoods of Queens, earned him a position as the Queens Director for the Mayor’s Community Affairs Unit under Michael Bloomberg. His capacity to bring people together caught the attention of New York Senator Charles E. Schumer, who hired him as the Director of Intergovernmental Affairs. In September of 2011, Goldfeder was elected in a special election to serve in the New York State Assembly where he focused on education, transportation and Sandy recovery.

Senator Schumer praised Goldfeder for being “a hard worker and a fighter, and with a deep passion for public service and people. In the Assembly he knew how to work with residents, leaders and businesses to get real results that improve peoples’ lives.”

Speaker Carl Heastie, New York State Assembly, offered Goldfeder his congratulations and said, “It has been a real pleasure to serve alongside Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder. Phil’s departure, while a tremendous loss for the Assembly, will be a great gain for Yeshiva University. His leadership, energy and enthusiasm have been an invaluable contribution to the Assembly and to the state of New York. I wish him all the best in this new role.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)