Goldfeder to Yeshiva University

Far Rockaway Assemblyman Phillip Goldfeder will head Yeshiva University’s government relations efforts, the school announced on Tuesday. Goldfeder said last month that he would not seek relection to the Assembly and would leave the legislature when his term ends on Dec. 31.

“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,” Goldfeder said. “I’m excited to utilize my diverse experience to advance the mission and goals of the university.”

He will work to strengthen and develop relationships between YU and federal, state and local governments, and monitor legislation and policies that could have an impact on YU and its programs, YU said.

Goldfeder’s began his career in public service as a community liaison for the New York City Council. His passion for community service 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 Senator Schumer, who hired him as director of intergovernmental affairs. In September of 2011, Goldfeder was selected in a special election to serve in the Assembly where he focused on education, transportation and Sandy recovery.

“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.”