Michael Berger

Michael Berger is currently the Dean of the Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish Education and Administration at Yeshiva University, where he has served since 2024. He is also an Associate Professor of Jewish Studies at Emory University (1994–present), previously holding roles as Assistant Professor (1994–2000). His academic career spans teaching and leadership in Jewish ethics, theology, and rabbinic literature.

• Education
• Princeton University (B.A. in Religion, 1985)
• Rabbinic Ordination (1988), Yeshivat Har Etzion
• Columbia University (M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion, 1992)
• The Hebrew University (Lady Davis Post-Doctoral Fellowship, 1992–1993)

Berger's research focuses on Jewish ethics, the periodization of Halakha, rabbinic authority, and interreligious discourse. He explores intersections between Jewish law and modernity, including topics like civil disobedience, messianism, and family structures. His work bridges academic analysis with practical implications for Jewish education and communal leadership.

Scientific awards and honors include

• Phi Beta Kappa Society membership
• Lady Davis Post-Doctoral Fellowship (1992–1993)
• Kathleen Connolly-Weinert Leader-of-the-Year Award (2012)
• Emory University Summer Research Grants (1995, 1996)
• Memorial Foundation for Jewish Culture fellowships (2001–2002, 2022–2023)
• Center for Teaching and Curriculum Award in the Humanities (2000)
• Woolford B. Baker Service Award (2008)

Berger has advised graduate programs and doctoral applicants, served on academic committees, and contributed to Jewish educational policy through roles with the Avi Chai Foundation (2001–2019) and the Legacy Heritage Fund. His work appears in major publishers like Oxford University Press and academic journals including Journal of Religion and Modern Judaism.