Inside the Technion’s Resilience During Tragedy

In the year since the horrific and devastating attacks of October 7, 2023, our world has completely changed. More than one thousand Israelis lost their lives that day – a tragedy that we will never forget. As we reflect and hope for the hostages’ safe return, one thing has become clear: Israeli resilience has never been stronger.

As people around Israel woke up to a new reality on October 8, 2023, so too did the students and staff at the Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. To commemorate this tragic anniversary and honor the bravery of all those called to the front lines, I spoke with Professor Wayne D. Kaplan, Technion Vice President of External Relations and Resource Development. He shared more about how the university stepped up for its students, courageously adapted to change, and found the strength to continue pursuing life-changing research during this difficult year. While this conversation took place before the recent conflict in the north, his insights into the undertaking the Technion has made to support its community are a reminder of how we remain poised for a resilient future.

Michael: I know the Technion coordinated an impressive array of resources for students immediately following the attacks to support them throughout the school year. What was the number one priority in those first few weeks?

Wayne: Our key focus was two-fold. On the one hand, the President of the Technion, Professor Uri Sivan, understood the imperative of ensuring that the campus was prepared for an attack and safe for our community, which remains a continued priority.

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This article was written by American Technion Society CEO Michael Waxman-Lenz.