College Initiatives

In response to the events of October 7, we expanded our foundation’s mission to address the rising challenges faced by Jewish students in American universities. The unprecedented wave of antisemitism and hostility on U.S. campuses has made it clear that American higher education is not what it once was. Many Jewish students and their families are now questioning whether U.S. universities are still safe and aligned with their values.

As part of our expanded mission, we are actively:

• Exploring pathways for American Jewish students to study in Israel, offering them relevant information as well as a high-quality, safe, and values-aligned alternative in transitional University tracks. 

• Working to strengthen Israeli universities by developing strategies to attract international students, particularly Jewish students seeking a better academic environment and social community. 

• Educating donors and influencers about the systemic failures of American higher education and the need to redirect funding toward institutions that uphold Jewish values and academic excellence.

Targeted Gifts

The foundation has made specific donations to five universities and colleges to expand their offerings for English-speaking students, facilitating smoother transitions into Israeli institutions and promoting them as viable options for higher education. Many of these programs will now have a transition track for students to study in English the first year as well as intensive Ulpan classes so that they can join the regular track in Hebrew thereafter.
Currently, gifts have been extended to Bar Ilan University, the Jerusalem College of Technology (JCT), Technion, Ben-Gurion University and Tel-Aviv University.

 

Guidance Counselors Trips

The foundation has sponsored trips for college guidance counselors. These trips are designed to deepen their understanding of the Israeli academic landscape, enabling them to provide better guidance to prospective students.

 

Partnership with MMY

The foundation has partnered with Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim (MMY) to establish a program that bridges second-year gap year students to matriculate at Machon Tal. This opportunity is available to all seminary students, though specific criteria apply for admission.

 

JLIC on Israeli Campuses

The foundation supports the creation of vibrant communities on campus for international students, including minyanim, Shabbat meals, and learning opportunities. JLIC couples, who play a critical role at these institutions, are in direct contact with senior leadership in these institutions, enabling even more comprehensive support for students.

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Pilot Program for College & University - Planning During the Gap Year

 

​The Pilot Program for College & University Planning During the Gap Year supports students spending a year in seminary, yeshiva, or other structured gap-year programs in Israel. By offering resources and guidance, this program encourages students to use their time abroad to thoughtfully consider options for higher education, including applying to universities or colleges in Israel and even exploring the process of making Aliyah. Rather than making rushed decisions during high school, students can approach this pivotal choice with greater clarity and flexibility. This approach empowers students to make choices that reflect their personal and professional goals, while also supporting those who may wish to make Israel their long-term home.