Americans for Ben-Gurion University is creating a community of leaders committed to fulfilling David Ben-Gurion’s vision for Israel’s Negev region.

The Zin Fellows Leadership Program is an immersive experience designed to equip passionate, actively engaged civic leaders with the tools, knowledge, and relationships to make a lasting impact on Israel—starting with the Negev. Through dynamic virtual learning and a transformative journey in Israel, participants explore the past, present, and future of this critical region.

Grounded in the legacy of David Ben-Gurion and driven by the innovation of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (BGU), Zin Fellows gain insights and connections that empower them to become ambassadors for Israel and BGU, as well as catalysts for sustainable change.

What does the program consist of?

  • Each cohort runs over six months and consists of 15-20 leaders from across the United States
  • The program is comprised of three Zoom sessions and a 5-day seminar in Israel
  • The meetings combine education, touring, socializing, networking and entertainment activities
  • Ongoing networking and mentorship opportunities throughout the year
  • Engaging with BGU faculty and guest speakers from a wide range of disciplines
  • Exploring the Negev's history, topography, geography, demography and sustainability and learn about the Negev's unique role in the unfolding development of the State of Israel
  • Insights into the challenges that lie ahead for the Negev and the knowledge for how to play a part in surmounting them

See below for information about eligibility, applications, cost, and program dates.

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Zin Fellows Cohort 6 in Beer-Sheva

Zin Fellows Cohort 6 in Beer-Sheva

Zin Fellows Cohort 6 at Ben-Gurion University

Zin Fellows Cohort 6 at Ben-Gurion University

A view of the Zin Valley in the Negev that inspired the name of this program. On a hike in the Negev with Zin Fellows Cohort I Learning about autonomous helicopters being developed at BGU’s Homeland Security Institute with Prof. Dan Blumberg A lecture about the ecology of Israel’s Machtesh Ramon with BGU professor and leading Israeli environmentalist Prof. Alon Tal Learning about the Negev at one of Zin’s U.S. gathering with Prof. Sakis Meir

Zin Fellows Paul Strug of Huston and Joanne Moore of Tel-Aviv

The Zin Fellows visiting the ruins of Avdat The conclusion of the third cohort overlooking the Zin Valley Fellows visiting the grave site of David Ben-Gurion Fellows learning about The Ramon Crater - the largest of the 7 erosion craters in the world Zin fellows hanging out with Pepper - a robot from the Physical Therapy Department at BGU Zin fellows; Barbara Baliff, Yuval Chiprut, Mytyl Simancas, Julie Savitch and Jeff Kupfer visiting Dr. Shelley Levy Tzedek's lab at BGU Zin fellows, Jill Max, Clare Sisisky and Jeff Kupfer visiting the Marcus Family Campus at BGU Zin fellows and Americans for Ben-Gurion University supporters together at BGU Cohort III on campus at BGU Zin fellows, Yuval Chiprut and Jeff Polak, visiting Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Learning about David Ben-Gurion on the edge of the cliff overlooking the vast and magnificent Zin Valley The closing ceremony for Cohort III in front of David Ben-Gurion's grave, overlooking the wilderness of the Zin Valley Watch this on Youtube!

Benefits of Becoming a Zin Fellow

  • Zin Fellows receive more than a thorough education on the Negev and BGU, they also gain a community and a mission
  • Participants forge deep relationships with like-minded peers, Israeli innovators, scholars, and students at BGU
  • Zin Fellows get first-hand experience in Israel’s Negev region and learn how to contribute to rebuilding and strengthening the Negev and Israeli society
  • Zin enables participants to develop as a philanthropic and professional leader while gaining exclusive access to BGU scholars and Israeli thought leaders
  • By the conclusion of the program, fellows build lifelong connections to powerful networks of like-minded professionals from across the United States and Israel, while developing as a philanthropic and professional leader

Eligibility and Applications

Eligibility:
The men and women selected to participate as Zin Fellows are in their 30s to 50s and have demonstrated leadership abilities in their personal, professional and/or community lives. They are committed to Israel and its future, and are dedicated to the pursuit of a meaningful educational experience through the program.

Applications:
Participation in the program is by application only. Nominations are coordinated through the Americans for Ben-Gurion University offices.

  • If you are interested in submitting a nomination, please contact Liz Kershner at: [email protected]
  • If your nomination is approved, you will be notified, and your nominee will be invited to apply and interview with an A4BGU team member.
  • Acceptance letters will be shared at the beginning of September 2025 and announced at the A4BGU Annual Meeting on October 20, 2025 in NYC.

Cost

The program is funded by Americans for Ben-Gurion University through the generosity of several sponsors. All lodging and program expenses are covered.

Participants are asked to make a minimum $5,000 contribution.

Cohort 8 Program Dates

Virtual Session 1 December 2025 Zoom
Virtual Session 2 January/February 2026 Zoom
In-Person Seminar March 14-19, 2026 Israel
Virtual Session 3 May 2026 Zoom

For more information, contact your local Americans for Ben-Gurion University office.