CENTENNIAL CALENDAR
Honor a century of impact and innovation with AFHU
This year marks a momentous milestone as we commemorate 100 years of unwavering partnership between American Friends of the Hebrew University (AFHU) and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem (HU). The idea for HU was advanced in 1913 by Chaim Weizmann, whose enthusiasm was shared by other visionaries, including Albert Einstein, Martin Buber, and Sigmund Freud. Three years after the symbolic foundation stones were laid on Mount Scopus in 1918, Weizmann and Einstein traveled across the United States to promote the University and raise funds. Since the founding of both institutions in 1925, our collaboration has been a beacon of perseverance, solidarity, and transformative support—driving groundbreaking research and enriching educational experiences for generations of students and scholars.
While we meet this centennial year amid times of exceptional uncertainty, the Hebrew University’s pivotal role in Israeli society remains constant. It continues to serve as a strategic national institution and a significant contributor to Israel’s stature within the international community. AFHU has stood proudly alongside the University for ten decades, helping to ensure Israel’s global reputation for excellence in academia and facilitating HU’s contributions to the ongoing prosperity of the State.
Join us throughout the year as we honor this remarkable legacy with a series of inspiring events. Your participation will help shape the future and ensure that the Hebrew University continues to thrive for the next one hundred years and beyond.
Mark Your Calendar
Please help us commemorate the joint 100th anniversaries of both the Hebrew University and AFHU at these signature events:
Join AFHU on an inspiring, educational, and informative journey through Einstein’s Berlin, Leipzig, and Brandenburg, led by HU Chancellor and former President, Prof. Menahem Ben-Sasson. Explore German-Jewish history with leading expert and HU scholar Prof. Yfaat Weiss, enjoy an architect-led tour of the Libeskind-designed Jewish Museum, and attend exclusive meetings with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Israeli Ambassador Ron Prosor. For information, please contact Monica Loebl: 561.948.3342/[email protected] or your local AFHU representative.
In 1925, leaders and luminaries from around the world gathered on Mount Scopus for an event that would shape the region and lay the foundation for the future State of Israel: the opening of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Today, the University stands firm as a beacon of excellence, innovation, and unwavering commitment to progress—playing a pivotal role in enhancing Israel’s stature within the international community. Join us in Israel and be a part of HU’s enduring tradition. For information and to register, please contact Bari Alovis: 561.488.1511/[email protected].
Featuring distinguished faculty from the Hebrew University, this unforgettable Patron Trip blends intellectual engagement, cultural immersion, and natural beauty in the stunning backdrop of Aspen, Colorado. For information, please contact Justin Pressman: 310.843.3100/[email protected] or your local AFHU representative.
Round out the centennial year at our annual Bel Air Affaire and profoundly impact the lives of deserving and talented scholars from Israel’s many communities. As our 100th anniversary commemorations come to a close, help us open new opportunities for Israel’s next generation of leaders and innovators. For information, please contact Justin Pressman: 310.843.3100/[email protected] or your local AFHU representative.
In addition to the events above, regional gatherings will take place throughout the year around the country. Please contact your local AFHU representative to learn more about plans for your community. Your participation and support drive the ongoing success of our shared mission; we look forward to commemorating this special year together.
Past events
Now in its 55th year, the Torch of Learning Award has an illustrious history, raising awareness and important support for the Hebrew University Faculty of Law and the mission of its American Friends. Read more and view event pictures here.
The Palm Beach Scopus Award Dinner, honoring philanthropists Ali and Lew Sanders on Thursday, January 16th, at The Breakers in Palm Beach, commemorated 100 years of excellence at Israel’s premier institute of higher learning and research, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Read more and view event pictures here.
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