Billionaire Robert Kraft Donates $1 Million to Yeshiva University Amid Rising Antisemitism

Billionaire Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots, has made a significant philanthropic gesture by donating $1 million to Yeshiva University, a private Orthodox Jewish institution. The donation, announced last week, will fund the establishment of the Blue Square Scholars program, aimed at supporting students transferring to Yeshiva for its esteemed educational environment. The initiative is particularly timely, as it seeks to bolster Jewish college students amid a noted increase in antisemitism on campuses across the United States. The rise in antisemitism has been exacerbated by recent anti-Israel protests at various universities, including Columbia University, where Kraft himself studied. These protests, which were sparked by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, have led to heightened tensions on campuses, prompting Kraft to express his discontent with the prevailing atmosphere of hate. He previously stated that he felt uncomfortable supporting Columbia until meaningful changes were made to address the situation. In his announcement regarding the Blue Square Scholars program, Kraft emphasized his commitment to creating a welcoming environment for students, where they can thrive academically and emerge as advocates for unity and respect. Yeshiva University, located in New York City, serves over 7,400 students and is positioned to play a crucial role in this initiative. Kraft's philanthropic efforts extend beyond this recent donation; he has invested heavily in combating antisemitism through his Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, which he established with an initial $20 million. His ongoing commitment includes a recent pledge of $100 million, reflecting his dedication to addressing hate and fostering a more inclusive society.