May News and Updates from AFORU

Dear Friends, Parents, and Alumni,

This week I had the honor of watching Prof. Uriel Reichman receive a lifetime achievement award at the Jerusalem Post Conference. This prestigious award recognized his unwavering commitment to establishing the first private, nonprofit Zionist university in Israel. His success is reflected in the thousands of Reichman University graduates who are now leaders in industries around the world. I congratulate him once again on this well-deserved honor.

We just wrapped up a two-week road trip with President Boaz Ganor and Jonathan Davis, Head of the Raphael Recanati International School. We held dozens of meetings with members of the Jewish community, as well as with friends, parents, and alumni.

From Los Angeles to Palo Alto to New York, word is spreading about what a wonderful place Reichman University is to study. The TLC we've provided our reservists—through scholarships, tutoring, and counseling—has deeply resonated with everyone we met. I’m incredibly proud of the work our dedicated staff and professors are doing to ensure that no student is left behind during this difficult time.

Thank you to our supporters for making these programs possible.

Summer is here! If you plan to be in Israel, please let us know—we’d love to arrange a campus visit and see you.

Please enjoy our newsletter below.

Best,

Leslie Skyba

Executive Director

American Friends of Reichman University, Inc

Read the newsletter here.

A Moment of Great Pride for Reichman University-Professor Uriel Reichman Honored with Jerusalem Post Lifetime Achievement Award

Today, Prof. Uriel Reichman, Founding President and Chairman of the Board, was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at The Jerusalem Post International Conference for his groundbreaking leadership and longstanding contribution to Israeli society and higher education.

31 years ago, ​​establishing a private university in Israel seemed like a fantasy. Prof. Reichman believed not only that it was possible — but that it was essential.

With a bold vision and inspiring determination, he founded what is now Reichman University and defined its mission: to train the future leaders of Israeli society.

The award honors his pioneering vision and achievements, which have transformed and impacted Israeli higher education and society, and his commitment to the public good.

Moreover, even in these challenging times, the university remains a warm home for Diaspora Jewry: Raphael Recanati International School is the largest international school in Israel. Students from over 90 countries study here — and many make aliyah upon completing their studies.

Among the key reasons cited for the award: the establishment of Israel’s largest international school, the university’s steadfast support for students serving in the reserves, and the recent opening of the Dina Recanati School of Medicine, which was established to address Israel’s critical shortage of doctors.

“31 years ago, I embarked on a journey to establish a university with a mission unlike anything in Israeli academia. When I see our Reichman University Alumni contribution to Israeli society, I feel that I fulfilled a mission and that it was all worthwhile,” said Prof. Reichman.

We are proud to walk the path he paved and remain committed to building a better future for Israeli society.

Reichman University Alumnus Spotlight Jacob Taurel

Originally from Venezuela, Jacob Taurel began his academic journey at Reichman University in 2010, studying Business Administration at the Arison School of Business. His first year was transformative - both socially and academically -opening the door to friendships that have lasted to this day and to an education that continues to shape his professional journey.

At Reichman University, Jacob stood out for his academic achievements, making the Dean’s List, and being one of only four students selected for the prestigious Student Exchange Program at The Wharton School in 2012.  Reflecting on his time at the Raphael Recanati International School, Jacob shares:

"The friendships, the network, and the values I gained at Reichman University have become essential pillars of both my personal and professional life. We are incredibly fortunate to have Israel as part of our story — and even more so to have had the opportunity to learn in English at a place like Reichman University, right in the heart of Israel."

Coming from Venezuela, Jacob was deeply impressed by Israeli society—its innovation, resilience, and remarkable achievements. His experiences in Israel helped shape a global perspective that continues to guide him today.

After graduating in 2013, Jacob moved to Miami, where he remains an active and proud member of our Alumni network, carrying the Reichman spirit with him around the world.