At the heart of Touro University is a steadfast commitment to its Judaic heritage and the core values that stem from this rich tradition. Established in 1970 by Dr. Bernard Lander with an inaugural class of 35 students, the university was founded with the dual mission of transmitting and perpetuating the Jewish heritage and serving humanity. This foundational ethos continues to shape Touro's identity as it has grown into the largest higher education system under Jewish auspices in America, serving a diverse population of over 19,000 students across numerous schools in the United States and internationally. Touro's culture is one of intellectual inquiry, where rigorous scholarship and the transmission of knowledge are paramount. The university strives to create an environment that respects and supports the backgrounds and beliefs of all its students, fostering personal growth alongside academic achievement.
A key element of Touro's cultural narrative is its dedication to student-centered education. This means providing personalized attention, fostering close relationships between faculty mentors and students, and offering a supportive and flexible learning environment. The university is deeply committed to making quality education accessible to all, including those who may have been overlooked or underserved, but possess the drive and potential to succeed. This commitment extends to serving the broader community. Touro actively partners with the communities in which it operates, designing programs with community needs in mind, particularly in fields like healthcare, education, and social work. The university instills in its students a sense of responsibility to give back and to become accomplished, thoughtful citizens who work towards building a responsive and responsible society. This dedication to service is evident in the numerous community initiatives and the high percentage of graduates who enter primary care and serve in resource-limited areas. Touro University prides itself on being an institution where students can achieve their educational and professional goals in an environment that honors their values and encourages them to make a positive impact on the world.